Login

UK's Silent Hearing Crisis

UK's Silent Hearing Crisis 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr is at the forefront of helping UK families navigate their health and financial futures. This guide explores a growing national concern and how private medical insurance can provide a vital safety net.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 5 Britons Secretly Battle Progressive Hearing Loss, Fueling a Staggering £3.7 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Career Impact, Cognitive Decline, Social Isolation & Eroding Independence – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Advanced Audiology, Cutting-Edge Hearing Solutions & LCIIP Shielding Your Professional Longevity & Future Vitality

A silent epidemic is sweeping across the United Kingdom. New data projected for 2025 reveals a startling reality: more than 1 in 5 Britons, over 12.5 million people, are now living with some form of hearing loss. For many, this isn't a sudden event but a gradual, creeping thief that quietly steals conversations, confidence, and connection.

This is far more than just turning up the television volume. The cumulative impact of untreated hearing loss over a lifetime is a devastating burden, estimated to cost an individual upwards of £3.7 million. This staggering figure encompasses lost career opportunities, the increased risk of debilitating cognitive decline, the profound pain of social isolation, and a gradual erosion of personal independence.

But there is a clear pathway to regaining control. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a powerful alternative to long NHS waits, providing rapid access to specialist diagnosis, the world's most advanced hearing solutions, and a crucial shield for your professional and personal wellbeing. This is your guide to understanding the crisis and how to protect your future vitality.

The Alarming Scale of the UK's Hearing Crisis in 2025

The numbers are stark and paint a picture of a nation struggling to hear. Based on analysis from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and leading audiological bodies, the landscape of hearing health in the UK has reached a critical point.

Statistic2025 ProjectionKey Implication
UK Adults with Hearing Loss> 12.5 MillionOver 20% of the adult population is affected.
Adults with Untreated Hearing Loss> 7 MillionA significant majority are not receiving the help they need.
Average Time to Seek Help7-10 YearsPeople delay seeking help, allowing the condition to worsen.
Working-Age Adults Affected~ 1 in 8Directly impacting the UK workforce and economy.

Source: Projections based on ONS population data and studies from Action on Hearing Loss & The Lancet Commission.

This isn't an issue confined to the elderly. A growing number of adults in their 40s and 50s are experiencing noticeable hearing decline, often due to a lifetime of exposure to noise from busy commutes, open-plan offices, and personal audio devices. They are in the prime of their careers, and the consequences of inaction are profound.

Deconstructing the £3.7 Million Lifetime Burden

How can a hearing condition possibly amount to a multi-million-pound personal cost? The figure becomes clear when we break down the four key areas of impact. We call this the Lifetime Career Impact & Income Protection (LCIIP) deficit—a measure of the total potential lost due to untreated hearing loss.

1. Career Impact & Lost Earnings

In a modern, collaborative workplace, communication is currency. The inability to hear clearly in meetings, on calls, or during crucial one-to-one conversations can be professionally devastating.

  • Missed Opportunities: You might miss a key instruction, fail to grasp the nuance in a client's request, or appear disengaged, leading to being overlooked for promotions and key projects.
  • Reduced Productivity: Constantly straining to hear is mentally exhausting. This "cognitive load" reduces your capacity for deep work and creative problem-solving.
  • Early Retirement: Many individuals with significant hearing loss feel forced to leave the workforce prematurely, unable to cope with the demands of their role, slashing their lifetime earning potential and pension contributions.

Example: The Career Trajectory Divergence

Consider two marketing managers, both aged 45 and earning £60,000.

ScenarioManager A (Normal Hearing)Manager B (Untreated Hearing Loss)
Age 45-50Receives promotion to Head of Marketing. Salary increases to £85,000.Struggles in meetings, passed over for promotion. Salary stagnates with inflation at ~£65,000.
Age 50-60Becomes Marketing Director. Salary rises to £120,000.Feels increasingly isolated and stressed. Productivity declines.
Age 60-67Continues to lead and mentor. Retires with a full pension pot.Takes early retirement at 62 due to burnout, significantly reducing their final pension value.
Estimated Lost EarningsN/A£800,000 - £1,200,000+ (in salary, bonuses, and pension value)

This career cost alone can easily exceed a million pounds over two decades.

One of the most terrifying discoveries in recent medical science is the strong, proven link between untreated hearing loss and a significantly higher risk of dementia. A landmark 2023 study in The Lancet confirmed that managing midlife hearing loss is one of the single most impactful lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your dementia risk.

Why does this happen?

  1. Cognitive Overload: Your brain works overtime to decipher muffled sounds, diverting resources away from memory and other critical thinking processes.
  2. Brain Atrophy: The parts of your brain responsible for processing sound become understimulated and can shrink over time.
  3. Social Isolation: As explained below, loneliness is itself a major risk factor for cognitive decline.

Protecting your hearing is not just about communication; it's about protecting the very essence of who you are—your mind and your memories.

3. The Crushing Weight of Social Isolation

Humans are wired for connection. Hearing loss systematically dismantles that connection.

  • Group conversations in pubs, restaurants, or family gatherings become a blur of noise.
  • You start to avoid social events because it's too difficult and embarrassing to keep asking "What did you say?".
  • Friends and family may misinterpret your lack of engagement as disinterest, causing relationships to fray.

This slow retreat from social life is a direct pathway to chronic loneliness, which the NHS identifies as being as damaging to long-term health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It is a major contributor to depression, anxiety, and a profound loss of self-worth.

4. The Erosion of Daily Independence

Your hearing is a vital tool for navigating the world safely and independently. When it fades, everyday life becomes filled with anxieties:

  • Will I hear the smoke alarm or a carbon monoxide detector?
  • Did I hear that car approaching as I crossed the road?
  • Will I miss a critical announcement on the train platform?
  • Can I hear the doorbell for an important delivery or a visitor?

This constant state of low-level alert erodes confidence and can lead to a reliance on others for simple tasks, chipping away at the independence we all value so highly.

The NHS vs. The Private Medical Insurance Pathway: A Tale of Two Timelines

The NHS provides an essential service, and its audiologists are dedicated professionals. However, the system is under immense pressure, leading to frustratingly long waits that can exacerbate the problems outlined above.

A private medical insurance UK policy offers a starkly different experience.

FeatureStandard NHS PathwayPMI Pathway
First StepGP AppointmentGP Appointment / Direct Access (plan dependent)
Referral to SpecialistWaiting list for NHS AudiologyRapid referral to a Consultant or Audiologist
Average Wait Time18 - 36+ weeksA few days to 2 weeks
Diagnostic TestsStandard hearing tests (audiogram)Comprehensive testing, including MRI/CT if needed to rule out underlying causes
Choice of SpecialistAssigned to the next availableYour choice of specialist and hospital from the insurer's network
Hearing Aid ChoiceLimited range of functional, pre-approved NHS modelsAccess to the entire market, including the latest invisible and AI-powered devices
Follow-up & Fine-TuningStandard follow-up appointments, may have waitsComprehensive, personalised aftercare and rapid-access fine-tuning

For someone in a client-facing role, a 6-month wait for diagnosis and treatment is not just an inconvenience—it's a direct threat to their livelihood. PMI bridges that gap, providing immediate action.

Critical Information: How PMI Covers Hearing Issues

It is absolutely vital to understand what a standard private health cover policy is designed for. This knowledge prevents disappointment and empowers you to choose the right plan.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Standard UK Private Medical Insurance is designed to cover acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a joint replacement, cataract surgery, or treatment for a sudden infection.

A chronic condition is one that is long-lasting, has no known cure, and needs ongoing management. Gradual, age-related hearing loss is typically classified as a chronic condition.

Therefore, most standard PMI policies will NOT cover the cost of hearing aids or treatment for pre-existing or age-related hearing decline.

So, how can PMI be your pathway? It is invaluable in three key areas:

  1. Rapid, In-Depth Diagnosis: If you experience a change in your hearing, particularly if it's sudden, in one ear, or accompanied by other symptoms like tinnitus or dizziness, PMI is your fastest route to finding out why. It will cover the consultations with an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgeon and advanced diagnostic scans (like an MRI) to rule out serious underlying acute causes, such as:

    • A benign tumour (e.g., acoustic neuroma)
    • Infections
    • Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (an acute medical emergency)
    • Ménière's disease
  2. Treatment for Acute Conditions: If the diagnosis reveals an acute condition (like a tumour requiring removal or an infection needing specialist treatment), your PMI policy will cover the subsequent treatment in full.

  3. Comprehensive Policy Add-ons: Some higher-tier plans offered by the best PMI providers include specific outpatient benefits that may provide a cash contribution towards diagnostics or even hearing aids. An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, is essential to help you identify and compare these nuanced policies.

The Future is Here: Hearing Solutions You Can Access Privately

The technology available through the private sector is light-years ahead of the standard-issue devices often available through the NHS. When you go private, you unlock a world of sophisticated, discreet, and life-changing solutions.

  • Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) Aids: These are custom-moulded to sit deep within your ear canal, making them completely invisible to others. Perfect for professionals who value discretion.
  • AI-Powered Hearing Aids: These remarkable devices use artificial intelligence to scan your environment thousands of times per second. They automatically distinguish between speech and background noise, amplifying what you want to hear and suppressing what you don't.
  • Seamless Bluetooth Connectivity: Stream crystal-clear audio directly from your smartphone, television, or laptop to your hearing aids. Phone calls and video conferences become effortless.
  • Rechargeable Technology: Say goodbye to fiddly batteries. Simply place your aids in a charging case overnight, just like your smartphone.
  • Tinnitus Masking: Many advanced devices include sophisticated programs that generate calming sounds to mask the frustrating ringing of tinnitus.

Using a private pathway means you get the technology that is perfectly suited to your specific type of hearing loss, your career, and your social lifestyle—not just a one-size-fits-all solution.

Proactive Steps to Shield Your Hearing and Future Vitality

You can take control of your hearing health today. Prevention and proactive management are key.

Health, Diet, and Wellness

Your ears are complex organs that rely on good blood flow and a steady supply of nutrients.

  • Diet: A diet rich in antioxidants (found in colourful fruits and vegetables), potassium (bananas, potatoes), and magnesium (dark chocolate, nuts, seeds) can support inner ear health. Our partners at WeCovr provide complimentary access to the CalorieHero AI app, a fantastic tool to help you track your nutrition and build a healthier lifestyle that supports your whole body, including your hearing.
  • Exercise: Regular cardiovascular exercise improves circulation everywhere, including the delicate structures of the ear.
  • Avoid Ototoxic Medications: Some medicines can damage hearing. Always discuss potential side effects with your GP or pharmacist.

Lifestyle and Environment

  • Noise Protection: This is non-negotiable. Use high-fidelity earplugs at concerts and clubs. Wear industrial-grade ear defenders if you work in a noisy environment (construction, manufacturing).
  • The 60/60 Rule: When listening to personal audio devices, listen at no more than 60% of the maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
  • Get Tested Early: Don't wait 10 years. If you notice yourself asking "what?" more often or struggling in noisy places, book a baseline hearing test. Many high-street providers offer free tests, which are an excellent starting point.

How a Specialist PMI Broker Like WeCovr Can Help

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can be complex. The policy documents are filled with jargon, and the differences between plans can be subtle but significant. This is where an independent, expert broker is invaluable.

At WeCovr, we provide a no-cost service to you. Our job is to be your expert advocate:

  1. We Understand the Market: We work with a wide panel of the UK's leading insurers and understand the specific nuances of their audiology and diagnostic cover.
  2. We Tailor to Your Needs: We take the time to understand your concerns, your career, and your budget to find a policy that offers the best possible protection for you.
  3. We Save You Time and Money: Instead of you spending hours comparing quotes, we do the legwork and present you with clear, easy-to-understand options.
  4. We Offer Added Value: When you take out a PMI or Life Insurance policy through us, we often provide discounts on other types of cover, like home or travel insurance, creating a holistic protection plan for your family.

With our extensive experience and high customer satisfaction ratings, we are committed to finding you the right private health cover to shield you from life's uncertainties.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does UK private medical insurance cover hearing aids?

Generally, no. Standard UK PMI policies do not cover the cost of hearing aids because gradual hearing loss is considered a 'chronic' condition. Private medical insurance is designed for 'acute' conditions that arise after your policy begins. However, PMI is exceptionally valuable for providing rapid access to specialist consultations and advanced diagnostics (like MRI scans) to determine the cause of your hearing loss and rule out any serious underlying acute medical issues. Some comprehensive plans may offer a small cash benefit towards hearing devices, which an expert broker can help you find.

Do I need to declare hearing loss when applying for PMI?

Yes, absolutely. You must declare any pre-existing medical conditions, including any level of hearing loss you are aware of, during your application. Failing to do so can invalidate your policy. The insurer will typically place an exclusion on your policy for your pre-existing hearing loss, meaning they will not cover treatment for that specific condition. However, you would still be covered for new, unrelated acute conditions that develop after your policy starts.

Can I see a private audiologist without a GP referral?

To use your private medical insurance, most insurers require a GP referral to ensure the specialist appointment is medically necessary. This creates a clear clinical pathway and allows your insurer to pre-authorise the costs. While you can self-refer to a private audiologist and pay for it yourself, you will not be able to claim the costs back from your insurer without the required GP referral.

What is the difference between an audiologist and an ENT specialist?

An Audiologist is a healthcare professional who specialises in diagnosing, measuring, and managing hearing and balance disorders. They are the experts who perform hearing tests and fit hearing aids. An ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist is a medical doctor (a surgeon) who diagnoses and treats medical and surgical diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. Your PMI will typically refer you to an ENT specialist first to investigate the medical cause of your hearing loss before you see an audiologist for management.

The silent crisis of hearing loss is a direct threat to your career, your cognitive health, and your quality of life. Don't wait until the silence becomes deafening. Take control of your future health and financial wellbeing today.

Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how a private medical insurance plan can be your shield against the unexpected.


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.