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Umbilical Hernia Repair Private Options

Umbilical Hernia Repair Private Options 2026

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we at WeCovr know that navigating private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can be complex. This guide explores your private options for umbilical hernia repair, helping you understand how to access faster, more comfortable treatment when you need it most.

Learn about umbilical hernia repair and how private cover speeds up treatment

An umbilical hernia can be a source of discomfort and concern. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times for surgery can be lengthy. This article explains what an umbilical hernia is, the treatment pathways available, and how private medical insurance can grant you rapid access to leading surgeons and hospitals, getting you back to your life sooner.

What Exactly Is an Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia happens when part of your intestine or fatty tissue bulges through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near your navel (belly button). It creates a visible swelling or lump, which might become more noticeable when you cough, strain, or sit up.

They are very common in newborns and infants but usually close on their own by the age of four or five. In adults, however, they are less likely to resolve without intervention and can develop for several reasons.

Common Causes of Umbilical Hernias in Adults:

  • Obesity: Excess weight puts continuous pressure on the abdominal wall.
  • Multiple Pregnancies: Pregnancy stretches and weakens the abdominal muscles.
  • Ascites: A build-up of fluid in the abdomen, often related to liver conditions.
  • Persistent, Heavy Coughing: Chronic coughing increases pressure inside the abdomen.
  • Straining: Lifting heavy objects improperly or straining during bowel movements can create a hernia.

Most adult umbilical hernias are not immediately dangerous, but they can cause discomfort and aching. The main risk is strangulation, where the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgery.

Symptoms of a Strangulated Hernia:

  • Severe, worsening pain at the hernia site.
  • The lump becomes firm, tender, and can't be pushed back in.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Redness or discolouration of the skin over the lump.

If you experience these symptoms, you must go to A&E immediately.

The NHS Pathway for Umbilical Hernia Repair

If you suspect you have an umbilical hernia, your journey with the NHS will typically follow these steps:

  1. GP Appointment: Your GP will examine the lump and can usually diagnose an umbilical hernia based on a physical check.
  2. Referral: If the hernia is causing pain or is large, your GP will refer you to a hospital consultant (a general surgeon) for assessment.
  3. Waiting List: This is often the longest part of the process. You will be placed on a waiting list for both the initial consultant appointment and, if surgery is approved, the operation itself.

According to recent NHS England statistics, the waiting list for elective (planned) surgery remains a significant challenge. By late 2024, millions of people were on waiting lists, with the median wait for general surgery often stretching for several months. For a non-urgent hernia, this could mean a wait of more than 18 weeks, and in some areas, considerably longer.

The NHS will usually only recommend surgery if the hernia is:

  • Painful or causing significant discomfort.
  • Large and unsightly.
  • Showing signs that it could become strangulated.

If it's small and asymptomatic, a "watchful waiting" approach is often advised.

Why Go Private for Your Hernia Repair?

Choosing private treatment offers three core advantages: Speed, Choice, and Comfort. For many, these benefits are invaluable for maintaining their quality of life, work commitments, and family responsibilities.

FeatureNHS TreatmentPrivate Treatment
Waiting TimeCan be many months for consultation and surgery.Typically a few weeks from GP referral to operation.
Choice of SurgeonYou will be treated by the available surgeon on the day.You can research and choose a specific, highly-rated surgeon.
Choice of HospitalYou are usually sent to a local NHS hospital.You can select a hospital based on location, reputation, or facilities.
AccommodationUsually on a ward with several other patients.A private, en-suite room for a more restful recovery.
SchedulingSurgery is scheduled by the hospital with limited flexibility.You can schedule your surgery at a time that suits your life and work.
Continuity of CareYou may see different doctors at various stages.You will see the same consultant throughout your treatment journey.

The Private Treatment Journey Explained

The private pathway is designed for efficiency and patient convenience. Here’s a typical timeline:

  1. GP Referral: Although some insurers allow self-referral, most require a GP referral letter. This confirms the medical need for specialist care.
  2. Choose Your Specialist: With private medical insurance, you can select a consultant from your insurer's approved list. You can research their specialisms and patient reviews.
  3. Initial Consultation (Within days or 1-2 weeks): You'll meet your chosen consultant. They will confirm the diagnosis, discuss your symptoms, and recommend the best surgical approach.
  4. Authorisation from Your Insurer: You'll contact your PMI provider with the details of the proposed treatment and the associated costs (your consultant's secretary will provide these codes). The insurer will then approve the claim.
  5. Surgery (Within 2-4 weeks): Your operation will be scheduled at your chosen private hospital at a time that works for you.
  6. The Surgery Itself: Umbilical hernia repair is a relatively quick procedure, usually taking 30-60 minutes. It's often performed as a day case, meaning you can go home the same day.

Surgical Methods: Open vs. Keyhole

There are two main techniques for repairing an umbilical hernia. Your surgeon will recommend the best one for you based on the hernia's size and your overall health.

  • Open Surgery: The surgeon makes a single incision (cut) over the hernia, pushes the bulging tissue back into place, and stitches the weak spot in the abdominal wall closed. A synthetic mesh is often placed to strengthen the area and reduce the chance of recurrence.
  • Laparoscopic (Keyhole) Surgery: The surgeon makes several tiny incisions. A laparoscope (a thin tube with a light and camera) is inserted through one, and special surgical tools are inserted through the others. The surgeon performs the repair while viewing a monitor. Mesh is also typically used.

Here’s how they compare:

AspectOpen Hernia RepairLaparoscopic (Keyhole) Repair
IncisionsOne larger incision (3-5 cm) at the navel.Several very small incisions (0.5-1 cm) around the navel.
ScarringA single, more noticeable scar.Multiple tiny scars that are often less visible.
Post-op PainCan be more painful in the initial days.Generally less post-operative pain.
Recovery TimeSlightly longer recovery. Return to office work in 1-2 weeks.Faster recovery. Return to office work often within 1 week.
Best ForSuitable for most hernia sizes, including very large or complicated ones.Often preferred for smaller hernias and for people keen on a quicker return to activity.

How to Pay: Self-Funding vs. Private Medical Insurance

Once you decide to go private, you have two main funding options.

1. Self-Paying for Treatment

This involves paying for the entire cost of your treatment directly to the hospital and consultant. It gives you complete freedom but can be expensive.

Estimated Costs for Private Umbilical Hernia Repair (UK, 2025):

ServiceAverage Cost Range
Initial Consultation£200 – £350
The Surgery (Package Price)£2,500 – £4,500+
Follow-up Consultation£150 – £250
Total Estimated Cost£2,850 – £5,100+

Disclaimer: These are estimates. Prices vary significantly based on the hospital, the surgeon's fees, the complexity of the surgery, and your location (London is typically more expensive).

A 'package price' usually includes the surgeon's and anaesthetist's fees, hospital costs (room, nursing care, medication), and one post-operative follow-up. Always confirm exactly what is included.

2. Using Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

This is the most common way to fund private treatment. You pay a monthly premium to an insurer, and in return, they cover the costs of eligible private healthcare. For many, this is a more affordable and predictable way to access private care.

CRITICAL NOTE: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions It is vital to understand that standard private medical insurance in the UK 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 return you to your previous state of health. A newly developed, symptomatic umbilical hernia is a classic example.
  • A pre-existing condition is any ailment for which you have experienced symptoms, received advice, or had treatment before you took out the insurance. If you had an umbilical hernia or symptoms of one before your policy start date, it will be excluded from cover.
  • A chronic condition is one that is long-lasting and cannot be fully cured (e.g., diabetes, asthma). PMI does not cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions.

If you're unsure, an expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you understand these rules and how they apply to your personal medical history.

How PMI Covers Umbilical Hernia Surgery

A good PMI policy will typically cover all the key stages of your treatment:

  • Consultations: The initial appointment with the specialist.
  • Diagnostics: Any scans required, though often not needed for a straightforward hernia.
  • Hospital Fees: The cost of the operating theatre, your private room, and nursing care.
  • Surgeon & Anaesthetist Fees: The professional fees for the medical team.
  • Post-operative Care: Includes a follow-up consultation and sometimes physiotherapy if needed.

Your level of cover depends on the policy you choose.

Policy LevelOutpatient CoverInpatient/Day-Case CoverTypical Suitability for Hernia
BasicOften limited or no outpatient cover. You may pay for the consultation yourself.Full cover for surgery and hospital stay.Covers the most expensive part (the surgery) but you pay for diagnostics.
Mid-RangeA set limit for outpatient care (e.g., £500-£1,500 per year).Full cover for surgery and hospital stay.Usually covers all costs, from consultation to post-op check-up.
ComprehensiveFull outpatient cover with no yearly limit.Full cover for surgery and hospital stay.Offers complete peace of mind, covering all eligible costs in full.

Choosing the Right Private Health Cover for Your Needs

The UK private medical insurance market is crowded, with providers like Aviva, Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality all offering dozens of policy combinations. Trying to compare them yourself can be overwhelming.

This is where an independent PMI broker is invaluable. An expert adviser at WeCovr can:

  • Listen to your needs: Understand your budget, health concerns, and priorities.
  • Compare the market: We search policies from a wide range of leading insurers to find the best fit.
  • Explain the jargon: We'll clarify terms like 'moratorium underwriting', 'excess', and 'hospital lists' in plain English.
  • Find the best value: Ensure you get the most comprehensive cover for your premium.
  • Provide ongoing support: We're here to help if you need to make a claim or review your cover.

This service comes at no extra cost to you. We are paid by the insurer, so you get expert, unbiased advice for free.

As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. Plus, you can benefit from discounts on other insurance products, like life or income protection cover.

Wellness and Recovery: Living With and After a Hernia

While surgery is the definitive fix, lifestyle choices can help prevent hernias and support a smooth recovery.

Prevention Tips:

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing excess body fat lowers the pressure on your abdomen.
  • Eat a High-Fibre Diet: Prevents constipation and the need to strain during bowel movements. Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Lift Safely: Bend at your knees, not your waist. Keep your back straight and lift with your powerful leg muscles. Avoid lifting things that are too heavy for you.
  • Quit Smoking: A chronic smoker's cough puts constant strain on the abdominal wall.

Post-Surgery Recovery Guide:

Your surgeon will provide specific instructions, but here is a general guide:

  • First 48 Hours: Rest is key. You'll feel sore, and pain relief will be provided. You can walk around gently.
  • Week 1-2: Avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting (nothing heavier than a kettle). You can typically return to a desk job within this period. Keep the wound clean and dry.
  • Week 2-4: You can gradually increase your activity levels. Driving is usually okay after 1-2 weeks, once you can perform an emergency stop without pain.
  • Week 4-6: You can slowly return to more strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, but listen to your body and stop if you feel any pain or pulling.

A full recovery usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks.


Can I get private health insurance if I already have an umbilical hernia?

Generally, if you already have a diagnosed umbilical hernia or have had symptoms of one before taking out a policy, it will be considered a pre-existing condition. Standard UK PMI policies will exclude treatment for it. However, if the hernia develops *after* your policy has started, it will typically be covered as a new, acute condition.

Is there a waiting period before I can claim for hernia surgery on a new PMI policy?

There isn't a standard waiting period for making a claim for a new condition. As long as the hernia is a new condition that arose after your policy's start date, you can claim immediately. The key factor is that it must not be pre-existing. Some policies may have an initial moratorium period, so it's always best to check the specific terms.

How much does a private medical insurance policy cost?

The cost of private medical insurance in the UK varies widely based on your age, location, the level of cover you choose, your excess, and your medical history. Premiums can range from as little as £30 per month for a young, healthy individual with a basic policy to over £150 per month for comprehensive cover for an older person. An adviser can provide a personalised quote.

What is an 'excess' on a health insurance policy?

An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards a claim each year. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your hernia treatment costs £3,500, you would pay the first £250, and your insurer would pay the remaining £3,250. Choosing a higher excess is a common way to lower your monthly premium.

Don't let an umbilical hernia disrupt your life. Take control of your health journey by exploring your private treatment options.

Ready to bypass the waiting lists and get the expert care you deserve? Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our friendly experts find the perfect private medical insurance policy for you.

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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:

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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.

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