Login

Ulcerative Colitis in the UK

Ulcerative Colitis in the UK 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert guidance on navigating the UK’s health landscape. This article explains Ulcerative Colitis, its impact, and how private medical insurance can provide a crucial safety net for rapid diagnosis and care when new symptoms arise.

WeCovr explains UC, treatment pathways, and how PMI supports quicker care

Living with the uncertainty of a potential health issue is one of life's greatest stresses. For the hundreds of thousands of people in the UK affected by Ulcerative Colitis (UC), this uncertainty can be a daily reality. Understanding this complex condition, the available care pathways, and the role of private medical insurance (PMI) is the first step towards regaining control.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Ulcerative Colitis in the UK. We’ll cover:

  • What Ulcerative Colitis is and how it affects the body.
  • The typical diagnosis and treatment journey on the NHS.
  • The critical role of private medical insurance in securing a fast diagnosis.
  • How to choose the right health cover for you and your family.

Let's dive in.

What is Ulcerative Colitis? A Plain English Guide

Ulcerative Colitis is a type of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). In simple terms, it's a long-term (chronic) condition where the colon (the large intestine) and rectum become inflamed and ulcerated.

Imagine the inner lining of your colon becoming red, raw, and swollen, similar to a patch of eczema on your skin. This inflammation prevents the colon from working properly and leads to a range of challenging symptoms.

Key characteristics of UC include:

  • It's an autoimmune condition: This means the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the colon.
  • It's chronic: UC is a lifelong condition that currently has no cure, but it can be managed with treatment.
  • It involves flare-ups and remission: People with UC experience periods when their symptoms are severe (a 'flare-up') and periods when their symptoms are mild or absent ('remission').

According to Crohn's & Colitis UK, it's estimated that around 1 in every 227 people in the UK lives with Ulcerative Colitis. This translates to nearly 300,000 individuals, with diagnoses often occurring in young adulthood.

FeatureDescription
What is it?A long-term inflammatory disease of the colon and rectum.
Main SymptomsRecurring diarrhoea (often with blood), tummy pain, urgent need to go to the toilet.
Who it affectsCan start at any age, but most common between 15 and 25.
CauseThe exact cause is unknown, but it's a mix of genetics and an abnormal immune response.
Cure?No cure, but treatments can effectively manage symptoms and induce remission.

Ulcerative Colitis vs. Crohn's Disease

UC is often mentioned alongside Crohn's Disease, the other main form of IBD. While they share similar symptoms, they affect different parts of the digestive system.

  • Ulcerative Colitis: Only affects the large intestine (colon) and rectum. The inflammation is continuous along the lining.
  • Crohn's Disease: Can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. The inflammation can occur in patches, with healthy tissue in between.

The Impact of UC on Daily Life: More Than Just a Tummy Ache

To say Ulcerative Colitis is disruptive is an understatement. The condition's impact extends far beyond the physical symptoms, affecting mental health, social life, and overall well-being.

Physical Impact

  • Urgency and Frequency: The constant, often sudden, need to use the toilet can dictate a person's entire day.
  • Fatigue: The body uses a huge amount of energy to deal with inflammation, leading to profound and persistent tiredness.
  • Pain and Discomfort: Abdominal cramping can be severe and debilitating.
  • Weight Loss and Malnutrition: Inflammation can make it hard for the body to absorb nutrients from food.
  • Extra-intestinal Manifestations: UC can sometimes cause problems outside the gut, including joint pain, skin conditions, and eye inflammation.

Emotional and Mental Health Impact Living with a chronic, unpredictable illness takes a significant mental toll.

  • Anxiety: Constant worry about flare-ups, finding toilets, and managing symptoms in public is common.
  • Depression: The physical pain, fatigue, and social isolation can contribute to low mood and depression.
  • Stress: Stress is a known trigger for UC flare-ups, creating a vicious cycle where the condition itself causes stress, which in turn can make the condition worse.

Social and Lifestyle Impact

  • Work and Education: Fatigue and frequent toilet breaks can make it difficult to maintain a regular work or school schedule.
  • Relationships: The condition can strain personal relationships due to its "invisible" nature and the impact on social activities like eating out or travelling.
  • Travel: Planning trips requires careful consideration of food, medication, and toilet access, making spontaneous travel difficult.

Wellness and Self-Care for Ulcerative Colitis

While medical treatment is essential, lifestyle and wellness strategies play a vital role in managing UC and improving quality of life.

  1. Diet and Nutrition: While no specific diet causes or cures UC, some people find certain foods can trigger their symptoms. Keeping a food diary can help identify personal triggers. A balanced diet is crucial to prevent malnutrition. As a WeCovr member, you get complimentary access to our CalorieHero AI app, which can help you track your food intake, calories, and make notes on how you feel, making it easier to spot patterns.

  2. Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, gentle yoga, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress levels and may reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

  3. Gentle Exercise: When you feel well enough, regular, low-impact exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling can boost your mood, improve sleep, and strengthen your body.

  4. Prioritising Sleep: Fatigue is a major symptom of UC. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to help your body rest and repair.

The NHS provides excellent care for IBD patients, but the journey from first symptoms to a confirmed diagnosis and treatment plan can be long.

Here is the typical pathway:

  1. GP Appointment: You visit your GP to discuss your symptoms. They may perform an initial examination and ask for a stool sample to check for inflammation or infection.
  2. Referral to a Specialist: If your GP suspects IBD, they will refer you to a gastroenterologist (a specialist in digestive diseases) at a local hospital.
  3. Waiting for a Specialist: This is often the longest part of the journey. According to NHS England data, referral-to-treatment (RTT) waiting times can be substantial. In early 2025, the median waiting time for gastroenterology was over 15 weeks in many NHS trusts.
  4. Diagnostic Tests: Once you see the specialist, they will arrange for diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis. The key test for UC is a colonoscopy, where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the entire colon.
  5. Waiting for Diagnostics: There are also waiting lists for diagnostic procedures. The NHS target is for 95% of patients to wait no more than 6 weeks for a diagnostic test, but this target is frequently missed.
  6. Diagnosis and Treatment Plan: After the tests, you'll have a follow-up appointment to confirm the diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis. Your specialist team will then create a long-term treatment plan.
  7. Ongoing Management: Your care will be managed by an NHS IBD team, including specialist nurses who provide support and advice.

NHS Pathway & Potential Timelines

StageDescriptionTypical NHS Wait Time (2025 estimate)
1. GP VisitInitial consultation and tests.1-3 weeks
2. Specialist ReferralWaiting for first hospital appointment.12-24 weeks
3. Diagnostic TestsWaiting for a colonoscopy.6-12 weeks
4. DiagnosisFollow-up appointment for results.2-4 weeks
Total Time to DiagnosisFrom first symptoms to confirmed diagnosis.4 to 10+ months

This extended waiting period can be a time of immense anxiety, pain, and uncertainty, with your condition potentially worsening while you wait.

The Crucial Point: Private Medical Insurance and Chronic Conditions

This is the most important section of this guide. It is vital to understand how private medical insurance works in the UK, especially concerning long-term conditions.

Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a cataract, a hernia, a broken bone).
  • A chronic condition is a disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, it has no known cure, it is likely to recur, or it requires palliative care.

Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic condition.

Therefore, if you have already been diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis—or have had symptoms that have led to a diagnosis—it will be considered a pre-existing condition. Standard private medical insurance policies will exclude cover for pre-existing conditions and any related chronic conditions.

This means a PMI policy will not pay for the ongoing management, medication, or consultations for a UC diagnosis you already had before you took out the cover.

How PMI Can Help: The Power of a Swift Diagnosis

So, if PMI doesn't cover chronic care for UC, what is its value?

The enormous benefit of private medical insurance lies in getting you from new, undiagnosed symptoms to a confirmed diagnosis with incredible speed.

If you develop symptoms that could be UC after your policy has started, PMI can be transformative.

The Private Pathway to Diagnosis

Let's imagine you have a comprehensive PMI policy and you start experiencing worrying gut symptoms for the first time. Here's how the journey looks:

  1. Instant GP Access: Most top-tier PMI policies include a 24/7 virtual GP service. You can speak to a doctor via phone or video call, often on the same day.
  2. Fast-Track Specialist Referral: The virtual GP can provide an open referral to a private gastroenterologist. You don't need to wait for a physical GP appointment or join the NHS queue.
  3. See a Specialist Within Days: You can book an appointment with a leading private consultant, often within a week.
  4. Rapid Diagnostic Tests: The specialist will arrange for a private colonoscopy and any other necessary tests (like an MRI or blood tests). These can usually be done within a week or two at a clean, comfortable private hospital.
  5. Quick Diagnosis and Plan: You receive your results and a confirmed diagnosis in a matter of days.

NHS vs. Private Diagnostic Pathway: A Comparison

FeatureNHS PathwayPrivate Pathway (with PMI)
GP AccessWait 1-3 weeks for an appointment.Same-day virtual GP access.
Specialist Wait12-24 weeks.1-2 weeks.
Diagnostic Test Wait6-12 weeks for a colonoscopy.1-2 weeks.
EnvironmentBusy NHS hospital.Private hospital, often with a private room.
Total Time4-10+ months of waiting and worry.2-4 weeks to get a definitive answer.

Once you have a confirmed diagnosis of a chronic condition like Ulcerative Colitis, your ongoing care will typically be managed by the NHS. However, you have bypassed months of debilitating uncertainty. This speed is not a luxury; it's a profound benefit that allows you to:

  • Start the right treatment sooner, potentially preventing the condition from getting worse.
  • Reduce months of anxiety and get the peace of mind that comes with a clear diagnosis.
  • Feel in control of your health journey.

A Real-Life Example: Sarah's Story

To illustrate the difference, let's consider a hypothetical scenario.

Meet Sarah, a 35-year-old marketing manager. Six months after taking out a private medical insurance policy with WeCovr's help, she starts experiencing severe stomach cramps and alarming symptoms.

Without PMI: Sarah waits two weeks for a GP appointment. Her GP refers her to the local hospital's gastroenterology department, where the waiting list for a first appointment is 24 weeks. After that appointment, she's put on the list for a colonoscopy, which takes another 8 weeks. Total time to diagnosis: 34 weeks (nearly 8 months). During this time, her symptoms worsen, she takes time off work, and her anxiety is sky-high.

With PMI: Sarah uses her policy's virtual GP app and speaks to a doctor the same day her symptoms become worrying. The GP gives her an open referral. She calls a private hospital and books an appointment with a top gastroenterologist for the following week. The specialist schedules a colonoscopy for five days later. Total time to diagnosis: under 2 weeks.

While Sarah's long-term UC care will now transition to an excellent NHS IBD team, her PMI policy has saved her over seven months of pain, stress, and uncertainty. She was able to get answers and start a treatment plan almost immediately.

Finding the Best PMI Provider for Your Needs

The private medical insurance UK market can seem complex, but understanding the basics makes it much easier to navigate. A good policy is a balance between the level of cover you want and the premium you are comfortable with.

As an independent PMI broker, WeCovr's role is to understand your unique needs and compare policies from across the market to find the perfect fit for you, at no extra cost.

Here are the key things to consider:

  1. Level of Outpatient Cover: This is crucial for diagnostics. Policies vary in how much they will cover for consultations and tests that don't require a hospital bed. For peace of mind, a policy with full outpatient cover is ideal, but options with a cash limit (e.g., £1,000) can be more affordable.
  2. Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospitals. A policy with a more limited list of local hospitals will be cheaper than one that includes premium central London hospitals.
  3. Policy Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (e.g., £250 or £500) will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  4. Underwriting Type:
    • Moratorium: You don't declare your medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes anything you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the last 5 years.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a full health questionnaire. The insurer assesses it and lists specific exclusions from the start. FMU can provide more certainty but takes longer to set up.

Added Value: The Extra Benefits of Modern PMI

Today's private health cover offers much more than just fast access to specialists. Insurers compete to provide a holistic health and wellness package.

  • Mental Health Support: Many policies now include cover for a set number of counselling or therapy sessions, which is invaluable for managing the stress of a potential diagnosis.
  • Wellness and Rewards: Insurers often provide access to wellness apps, discounted gym memberships, and other rewards for healthy living.
  • 24/7 Virtual GP: This is one of the most-used benefits, providing instant medical advice and peace of mind.
  • Exclusive WeCovr Perks: When you arrange your policy through WeCovr, you not only get expert, free advice but also gain complimentary access to our CalorieHero AI nutrition app. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance often receive discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your family's finances more affordably.

Our clients consistently give us high satisfaction ratings for our clear, friendly, and professional service. We are committed to demystifying insurance and empowering you to make the best choices for your health.

Can I get private medical insurance if I already have Ulcerative Colitis?

Generally, no. Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic condition. If you have already been diagnosed or have received treatment or advice for its symptoms before taking out a policy, it will be considered a pre-existing condition and will be excluded from cover by standard UK private medical insurance policies.

Does PMI cover the long-term medication for Ulcerative Colitis?

No. The ongoing management of chronic conditions, including the prescriptions for long-term medication like aminosalicylates or biologics for UC, is typically excluded from private medical insurance policies. This care is managed by the NHS.

What is the main benefit of PMI for a condition like UC?

The primary benefit of private medical insurance is the speed of diagnosis for new, undiagnosed symptoms that arise *after* your policy begins. PMI allows you to bypass NHS waiting lists for specialist consultations and diagnostic tests like colonoscopies, providing a definitive diagnosis in weeks rather than many months.

How can a PMI broker like WeCovr help me?

An expert, independent broker like WeCovr helps by explaining the complex terms and conditions of insurance in plain English. We compare policies from a wide range of leading UK insurers to find cover that matches your specific needs and budget, ensuring you get the right protection. Our service is completely free to you.

Take the Next Step Towards Peace of Mind

Navigating the world of private medical insurance can be daunting, but you don't have to do it alone. The right policy can provide an invaluable safety net, ensuring that if you or a family member develop worrying symptoms, you get the answers you need, fast.

At WeCovr, our friendly, expert advisors are here to help. We provide clear, impartial advice to help you find the best private health cover for your circumstances.

Get your free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and take the first step towards faster, more accessible healthcare.


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.