WeCovr.

Login

UK's Invisible Health Threat

UK's Invisible Health Threat 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we see the growing need for proactive health management. This guide explores the UK's invisible health crisis and how private medical insurance offers a crucial defence against future illness and financial strain.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 5 Britons Are Unknowingly on a Path to Major Illness, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Financial Catastrophe From Undiagnosed Pre-Disease States, Lost Productivity & Eroding Futures – Is Your PMI Pathway to Early Detection & LCIIP Shield Your Proactive Defence

A silent health crisis is unfolding across the United Kingdom. It doesn’t arrive with a sudden diagnosis or a dramatic event. Instead, it builds quietly, unnoticed, in the form of "pre-disease" states. New analysis for 2025 reveals a startling reality: over two in five adults in the UK are living with the precursors to serious, life-altering conditions like Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.

This isn't just a health warning; it's a financial one. The potential lifetime cost of progressing from a pre-disease state to a full-blown chronic illness can exceed a staggering £4.1 million per individual, factoring in lost earnings, productivity, private care needs, and the wider impact on family futures.

In an era of unprecedented pressure on the NHS, waiting for symptoms to appear is a gamble many can no longer afford to take. The question is, what is your plan? This guide unpacks this invisible threat and explores how a modern Private Medical Insurance (PMI) policy can serve as your proactive defence, offering a pathway to early detection and a financial shield against the unknown.

The Ticking Time Bomb: Understanding Pre-Disease

"Pre-disease" isn't an official diagnosis but a crucial warning sign. It's the grey area where your health markers, like blood sugar, blood pressure, or cholesterol, are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a full diagnosis of a chronic illness.

Think of it as a flashing amber light on your health dashboard.

Key Pre-Disease States Affecting Britons:

  • Pre-diabetes: Blood sugar levels are elevated, significantly increasing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. According to the NHS, millions of people in the UK are estimated to have pre-diabetes and are completely unaware of it.
  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Often called the "silent killer" because it has no symptoms, high blood pressure damages your arteries and dramatically increases your risk of heart attacks and strokes. Public Health England data suggests millions of adults are living with undiagnosed or uncontrolled high blood pressure.
  • High Cholesterol: Excess "bad" cholesterol (LDL) can lead to fatty deposits in your arteries (atherosclerosis), narrowing them and raising the risk of heart disease and circulation problems.

The danger lies in their silence. You can feel perfectly fine while these conditions slowly compromise your body's systems, setting the stage for a major health event down the line.

Pre-Disease StateWhat It IsPotential Long-Term Illness
Pre-diabetesHigher-than-normal blood sugarType 2 Diabetes, Heart Disease, Kidney Disease
HypertensionConsistently high blood pressureHeart Attack, Stroke, Vascular Dementia, Aneurysms
High CholesterolElevated levels of LDL cholesterolCoronary Artery Disease, Heart Attack, Stroke
ObesityHigh body mass index (BMI)Over 13 types of cancer, Diabetes, Heart Disease

Source: Analysis based on NHS and Public Health England guidance, 2025.

The "2 in 5 Britons" statistic reflects the combined prevalence of these and other risk factors. With an ageing population and modern lifestyle pressures, this invisible burden is growing, pushing more people towards a cliff edge they cannot see.

The £4.1 Million Catastrophe: Deconstructing the Lifetime Cost

The figure of £4.1 million may seem shocking, but it represents the potential domino effect of an unmanaged health condition over a lifetime. It is not simply about medical bills; it's a holistic calculation of eroding financial security.

How can the costs escalate so dramatically?

  1. Lost Earnings & Productivity: A major illness like a stroke or heart attack can force you out of work for months, years, or even permanently. This means a direct loss of salary, bonuses, and career progression.
  2. Reduced Pension Contributions: Time out of work means a halt or reduction in pension savings, significantly impacting your retirement income and quality of life in your later years.
  3. The Cost of Care: While the NHS provides exceptional care, its resources are stretched. You may face costs for private care to bypass waiting lists, specialist therapies (physio, occupational therapy), home modifications, and long-term social care.
  4. Impact on Family: Often, a spouse or family member must reduce their working hours or leave their job entirely to become a caregiver. This "informal care" has a huge economic cost, compounding the financial strain on the household.
  5. Loss of Future Opportunities: A chronic condition can limit your ability to travel, start a business, or pursue life goals, representing an unquantifiable but very real loss.

A Lifetime Financial Impact Scenario

Let's look at a hypothetical example for a 45-year-old professional earning £60,000 per year who develops a serious, work-limiting chronic condition.

Financial Impact AreaEstimated Lifetime CostExplanation
Lost Future Earnings£1,200,000Assumes forced early retirement 20 years before state pension age.
Lost Pension Value£500,000Based on lost contributions and investment growth.
Private Healthcare & Social Care£300,000+Costs for carers, home adaptations, and specialist treatments not fully covered by the state.
Spouse's Lost Earnings£900,000Spouse reduces to part-time work for 15 years to provide care.
"Opportunity Cost" & Other Factors£1,200,000+A modelled figure representing inflation, lost investments, and quality of life impacts.
Total Potential Impact£4,100,000+A devastating financial legacy from a preventable or manageable condition.

This table is illustrative, but it shows how the financial consequences ripple outwards, far beyond the initial diagnosis. This is why proactive health management is one of the most important financial decisions you can make.

Your Proactive Defence: Private Medical Insurance in 2025

With NHS waiting lists for elective treatment remaining at historic highs (well over 7 million in England alone), relying solely on the public system for early, proactive intervention is becoming increasingly difficult. This is where Private Medical Insurance (PMI) has evolved. It's no longer just about "queue jumping" for operations; it's about building a comprehensive health and wellness strategy.

As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr helps thousands of UK residents navigate their options to find a policy that acts as a true health partner.

1. Fast-Track to Early Detection

The single most powerful weapon against pre-disease is early detection. PMI policies are designed to give you rapid access to the services that can spot trouble early.

  • Fast GP Access: Many policies now include digital GP services, allowing you to book a video or phone consultation within hours, not days or weeks. You can discuss concerns, get advice, and receive a referral quickly.
  • Prompt Specialist Consultations: If a GP flags a concern, your PMI can ensure you see a specialist consultant in a matter of days. This speed is critical for getting ahead of conditions before they become irreversible.
  • Advanced Diagnostics: PMI typically covers the cost of diagnostic tests and scans like MRIs, CT scans, and endoscopies, bypassing long NHS waits and providing your consultant with the information they need to make an accurate diagnosis.

2. The LCIIP Shield: Your Proactive Health Ecosystem

We refer to the combined proactive benefits of modern PMI as the LCIIP Shield – your Lifetime Care & Illness Intervention Pathway. This isn't a single product but a concept describing the ecosystem of support that top-tier policies provide to keep you healthy.

This shield includes:

  • Health Screenings: Many comprehensive plans offer routine health checks or "health MOTs". These screenings can check key markers like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, flagging pre-disease states long before you'd notice symptoms.
  • Mental Health Support: Stress is a major contributor to physical illness. Most PMI providers now include extensive mental health cover, from counselling sessions to access to therapy apps, helping you manage stress before it impacts your physical health.
  • Wellness Programmes: Insurers actively reward you for healthy living. This can include discounted gym memberships, wearable tech like an Apple Watch or Fitbit, and access to nutritionists and smoking cessation programmes.

3. More Than Medicine: Digital Tools and Member Benefits

The best PMI providers understand that health is a 24/7 concern. They empower you with tools and benefits that integrate into your daily life.

  • Digital Health Apps: Access expert-led apps for physiotherapy, mental wellbeing, and symptom checking.
  • Exclusive Discounts: As a WeCovr client with PMI or Life Insurance, you can receive discounts on other types of essential cover, creating a more affordable, holistic protection plan for your family.
  • Complimentary Calorie Tracking: WeCovr also provides complimentary access to our partner AI calorie tracking app, CalorieHero, helping you take direct control of your nutrition—a cornerstone of preventing conditions like Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol.

The Golden Rule of PMI: Understanding What Is (and Isn't) Covered

It is absolutely crucial to be clear about the function of private medical insurance in the UK. It is a fantastic tool for proactive and reactive care, but it has specific rules.

Acute vs. Chronic Conditions: The Core Principle

Private medical insurance is designed to cover a_cute_ conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health.

  • Examples of Acute Conditions Covered: Joint replacement, cataract surgery, hernia repair, cancer treatment (depending on the policy).

PMI does NOT cover chronic conditions. A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured and needs long-term management.

  • Examples of Chronic Conditions Not Covered: Diabetes, asthma, established high blood pressure, arthritis. The day-to-day management of these falls to the NHS.

However, PMI can play a vital role in diagnosing a condition that becomes chronic. For example, it could cover the initial consultations and tests that lead to a diagnosis of diabetes, after which your care would be managed by the NHS.

Pre-existing Conditions: The Hard Truth

Standard UK PMI policies do not cover pre-existing conditions—any disease, illness, or injury you have had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy start date.

There are two main ways insurers handle this:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: You don't declare your medical history upfront. The insurer will automatically exclude any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining. However, if you go 2 full years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting: You declare your full medical history. The insurer then tells you upfront exactly what is and isn't covered, providing complete clarity from day one.

An expert broker like WeCovr can help you understand which underwriting type is best for your circumstances and find an insurer whose terms are most favourable. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are built on this kind of clear, honest advice.

Actionable Steps: Building Your Personal Health Shield Today

While PMI is a powerful tool, your daily habits are your first line of defence. Here are some simple, effective steps you can take to combat the risks of pre-disease.

1. Know Your Numbers

Speak to your GP or pharmacist about getting baseline checks for:

  • Blood pressure
  • Cholesterol levels (a simple blood test)
  • Blood sugar (HbA1c test)
  • Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference

2. Embrace a Balanced Diet

You don't need a punishing diet. Focus on small, sustainable changes:

  • Eat the Rainbow: Fill your plate with a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables.
  • Favour Whole Grains: Switch from white bread, rice, and pasta to their wholegrain equivalents.
  • Lean Protein: Choose chicken, fish, beans, and lentils over processed and red meats.
  • Healthy Fats: Opt for olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds.

3. Move Your Body

The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week.

  • Moderate Activity: A brisk walk, cycling on level ground, dancing, or pushing a lawnmower. Anything that raises your heart rate and makes you breathe a bit faster.
  • Find What You Love: You're more likely to stick with an activity you enjoy. Don't force yourself to run if you hate it; try a dance class, hiking, or swimming instead.

4. Prioritise Sleep

Poor sleep is directly linked to weight gain, high blood pressure, and poor blood sugar control.

  • Aim for 7-9 hours per night.
  • Create a Routine: Go to bed and wake up at roughly the same time, even on weekends.
  • Switch Off: Avoid screens (phones, TVs, laptops) for at least an hour before bed. The blue light can disrupt your body's production of the sleep hormone melatonin.

Does private health insurance cover preventative health checks?

Many comprehensive private medical insurance UK policies do offer benefits for preventative care. This can range from full "health MOTs" that check key biometrics like blood pressure and cholesterol, to contributions towards health screenings. These benefits are a key part of using PMI proactively to catch potential issues early. However, the level of cover varies significantly between providers, so it's important to compare policies.

Can I get PMI if I already have high blood pressure?

Yes, you can still get private health cover, but the high blood pressure (hypertension) itself, and any related conditions, will almost certainly be excluded from cover as a pre-existing condition. UK PMI is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover the management of pre-existing or chronic illnesses like hypertension.

Is it better to use a PMI broker or go direct to an insurer?

Using an independent PMI broker like WeCovr offers significant advantages at no extra cost to you. A broker provides impartial advice, comparing policies from across the market to find the best PMI provider for your specific needs and budget. We can explain the complex jargon, help you understand exclusions, and ensure you get the right level of cover, potentially saving you money and preventing you from buying an unsuitable policy.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) requires you to disclose your complete medical history upfront. The insurer then assesses it and explicitly lists any conditions that will be excluded from your cover. Moratorium underwriting is simpler to set up as you don't provide medical details initially. Instead, the policy automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the past five years. If you then go for a continuous two-year period on the policy without issue for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.

Take Control of Your Health and Financial Future Today

The invisible threat of pre-disease is real, but it doesn't have to define your future. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps—both in your lifestyle and your financial planning—you can build a powerful shield for yourself and your family.

Private Medical Insurance is a cornerstone of that shield. It provides peace of mind, rapid access to care, and the tools to stay healthy, protecting you from both the health and financial consequences of unexpected illness.

Don't wait for the warning lights to turn red. Contact a WeCovr expert today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how affordable your proactive health defence can be.

Get A Free Quote

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London