Understanding CPME Switching Without Losing Cover
Shopping around is a savvy way to manage your finances, but when it comes to private medical insurance in the UK, many people worry about switching. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we know the biggest fear is losing cover for existing medical conditions.
This guide explains how you can switch insurers without that risk, using a process called Continuing Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME).
WeCovr's guide to Continuing Personal Medical Exclusions when moving insurers
Private health cover is a significant investment in your wellbeing. As premiums rise each year with age and medical inflation, it's only natural to look for a better deal. However, the fear of starting anew with a policy that excludes conditions you've developed over the years can be paralysing.
This is where CPME underwriting comes in. It’s a specific mechanism designed for people who already have a UK private medical insurance policy and want to move to a new provider.
Essentially, CPME allows you to carry your current level of cover – including for conditions that have arisen since you first took out a policy – to a new insurer. It bridges the gap, ensuring you're not penalised for having used your insurance as intended.
Think of it as moving house but taking your favourite, most comfortable sofa with you. You get a new environment (the new insurer) but keep the essential comforts you've come to rely on (your existing cover).
Critical Note: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions
Before we go further, it's vital to understand a fundamental principle of private medical insurance in the UK. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions – illnesses or injuries that are short-term and curable with treatment (like a cataract or a hernia).
PMI does not cover chronic conditions, which are long-term, incurable, and require ongoing management (like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure). This remains true even when switching on a CPME basis. CPME protects your cover for eligible acute conditions that have occurred, not for pre-existing or chronic illnesses.
What is CPME and How Does It Work?
Understanding the jargon is the first step to feeling confident about switching. Let's break down CPME and how it compares to other ways insurers assess your health.
A Simple Definition of CPME
Continuing Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME) is a type of underwriting for individuals switching from one private medical insurer to another. The new insurer agrees to accept you on the same terms as your previous one. This means they won't add new exclusions for medical conditions that were covered by your old policy.
Any personal exclusions you already had will, however, be carried over. It’s a "continuation" of your existing underwriting.
The Key Principle: "No Worse Terms"
The core promise of a CPME switch is that your medical underwriting will be no worse than it was with your previous insurer.
Real-Life Example: Sarah's Switch
Sarah, 45, has had a policy with Insurer A for five years. Two years ago, she developed shoulder pain and her PMI covered the consultation, MRI scan, and course of physiotherapy. Her shoulder is now fine.
At renewal, her premium from Insurer A increases by 20%. She contacts WeCovr to explore her options. We find her a policy with Insurer B that offers similar benefits for a lower premium.
Sarah switches to Insurer B on a CPME basis.
- What happens? Insurer B agrees to continue covering her for any future eligible shoulder problems, just as Insurer A would have. They do not place a new exclusion on her shoulder because it was a condition that arose and was covered under her previous policy.
CPME vs. Other Underwriting Types
To fully grasp the benefits of CPME, it helps to see how it stacks up against the other main types of underwriting.
| Underwriting Type | How It Works | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) | You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer assesses your full medical history and may apply specific exclusions for pre-existing conditions. | People who are young, in excellent health, and have no significant medical history. | Very thorough, but any past issues (e.g., a bad back 5 years ago) will likely be permanently excluded. |
| Moratorium Underwriting | No initial health questions. Instead, any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before the policy starts is excluded. This exclusion can be lifted if you go 2 continuous years on the policy without issue. | People who want a quicker application process and haven't had recent medical issues. A good default option for first-time buyers. | The "2-year rolling" period can be confusing. A condition you thought was minor could be excluded. |
| Continuing Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME) | Your existing underwriting terms and personal medical exclusions are transferred from your old insurer to the new one. No new exclusions are added for conditions already covered. | Anyone with an existing PMI policy who has developed medical conditions they want to keep covered. | You must switch without any gap in cover, and your old policy's exclusions will be carried over. |
Using a CPME basis is almost always the best path for anyone with an existing policy, as it preserves the cover you've built up over the years.
Why Would You Want to Switch Your Private Health Cover?
If CPME allows you to keep your cover, what are the main reasons people decide to move insurers in the first place? The motivations are usually a mix of financial, practical, and service-related factors.
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Rising Premiums: This is the number one reason. PMI premiums are influenced by your age, your claims history, and overall medical inflation (the rising cost of private treatment, drugs, and technology). It's not uncommon for renewal prices to increase by 10-25% or more each year. Switching allows you to "re-broke" your policy and see if another top-tier provider can offer a more competitive price for the same level of cover.
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Better Benefits or Policy Features: The private medical insurance UK market is constantly evolving. A new provider might offer:
- Enhanced Cancer Cover: Access to the latest drugs and therapies not yet available on the NHS.
- Improved Mental Health Support: More comprehensive cover for therapy and psychiatric treatment.
- A Wider Hospital Network: Access to hospitals closer to your home or work.
- Higher Outpatient Limits: More generous cover for diagnostic tests and consultations.
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Poor Customer Service: A difficult or slow claims experience can destroy your trust in an insurer. Many people switch after feeling let down during a time of need, seeking a provider with a better reputation for customer care and claims handling. WeCovr's high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our focus on helping clients navigate these moments.
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Valuable Added Services: Insurers are increasingly competing on wellness offerings. By switching, you might gain access to:
- 24/7 Virtual GP services.
- Wellness programmes and apps. For instance, WeCovr clients gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help them stay on top of their health goals.
- Discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and spa breaks.
The Golden Rules of CPME Switching: What You Need to Know
Switching with CPME is a powerful tool, but it's not automatic. You need to follow a few critical rules to ensure the process is seamless and successful.
Rule 1: No Gap in Cover
This is the most important rule. Your new policy must start the day after your old one ends. Even a single day's gap between policies will invalidate the CPME terms. The new insurer will likely treat you as a new customer, meaning you'll have to undergo fresh underwriting (Moratorium or FMU), and you'll lose cover for conditions that arose under your old policy.
Rule 2: Maintain a Similar Level of Cover
You can't switch from a budget policy with no outpatient cover to a comprehensive policy and expect your old conditions to be covered for new benefits. The new policy's core benefits must be broadly "like-for-like". You can make small adjustments, but a major upgrade will likely trigger fresh underwriting for the upgraded portion of the cover. A PMI broker can guide you on what constitutes a reasonable switch.
Rule 3: Be Completely Transparent
When you apply, you'll need to provide the new insurer with your most recent policy certificate from your old provider. They will use this to confirm your underwriting terms. You must be honest about your claims history if asked. Insurers share information to prevent fraud, and any non-disclosure could lead to a claim being denied or your policy being cancelled.
Rule 4: Exclusions Carry Over
CPME is not a magic wand that erases your medical history. If your original policy had a specific exclusion – for example, for a spinal condition you had before you ever took out insurance – that exclusion will be ported over to your new policy.
Rule 5: The New Insurer's Terms Still Apply
While your personal medical underwriting is carried over, you are still subject to the new insurer's overall policy terms and conditions. For example, if your new policy has a different list of standard exclusions (e.g., for professional sports injuries) or a different hospital list, those new terms will apply to you.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Switching Your PMI with CPME
Feeling more confident? Here’s a practical, step-by-step process for making the switch.
Step 1: Review Your Current Situation About a month before your renewal date, your current insurer will send you a renewal pack. Look at:
- Your renewal premium: How much has it increased?
- Your current benefits: What are you covered for? (Inpatient, outpatient, cancer cover, etc.)
- Your personal exclusions: Remind yourself of any conditions that are already excluded.
Step 2: Speak to an Expert PMI Broker This is the most crucial step. Instead of spending hours trying to compare complex policies yourself, engage an independent broker like WeCovr. Our service costs you nothing. We will:
- Listen to your needs and reasons for switching.
- Analyse your current policy to understand your exact level of cover.
- Compare the entire market to find the best PMI provider offering CPME terms for your situation.
- Explain the differences in benefits and price in plain English.
Step 3: Gather Your Documents To process a CPME application, your broker will need:
- A copy of your current policy certificate.
- Your renewal invitation from your current insurer.
- Sometimes, a claims history letter (though often the insurer can check this electronically).
Step 4: Compare Your Personalised Quotes WeCovr will present you with clear, easy-to-understand options. This might look something like this:
| Feature | Your Current Insurer (Renewal) | Provider A (CPME Quote) | Provider B (CPME Quote) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | £150 | £125 | £130 |
| Hospital List | Nationwide | Nationwide Plus (inc. London) | Local & Partner Hospitals |
| Outpatient Cover | £1,000 limit | Full cover | £1,500 limit |
| Mental Health | Basic (outpatient only) | Comprehensive cover | Basic (outpatient only) |
| Excess | £250 | £250 | £250 |
| Wellness Benefit | None | 50% off gym membership | Virtual GP + Points programme |
This table allows you to see at a glance where you could save money or gain benefits.
Step 5: Apply for the New Policy Once you've chosen your preferred option, your broker will handle the application. They will ensure it's submitted on a "CPME / Switch" basis and that all the information is correct. This minimises the risk of administrative errors.
Step 6: Check Your New Documents Carefully When you are accepted, you'll receive your new policy documents. Check two things immediately:
- The underwriting basis should clearly state "Continuing Personal Medical Exclusions" or similar wording.
- The list of exclusions should match the exclusions on your old policy.
Step 7: Cancel Your Old Policy (Timing is Everything!) Only once your new policy is fully active and you have the documents in hand should you contact your old insurer to cancel. Time the cancellation for your renewal date. Do not simply cancel your Direct Debit, as this can cause issues. A formal cancellation ensures a clean break and prevents any gap in cover.
Potential Pitfalls of CPME Switching and How to Avoid Them
While usually straightforward with a broker, there are a few traps to be aware of.
- The "Downgrade" Trap: If you switch to a new policy with significantly lower benefits (e.g., removing outpatient cover to save money), you might not be able to add that cover back later without fresh medical underwriting. This could mean any condition that develops while you have the lower cover is then excluded from future outpatient treatment.
- The "Upgrade" Misconception: If you add a new benefit that wasn't on your old policy (e.g., dental cover), your pre-existing dental issues will not be covered. The new benefit will be underwritten on a fresh basis, usually with a moratorium.
- Switching Mid-Treatment: It is extremely difficult, and often impossible, to switch insurers while you are in the middle of a course of treatment for a condition. You must typically complete the treatment plan before another insurer will consider you on a CPME basis.
- Forgetting Group Leavers: If you're leaving a company health insurance scheme, you have a golden opportunity. Most insurers allow you to take out a personal policy on a "Group Leaver" basis, which functions just like CPME, continuing your cover without new underwriting. You usually have a limited time (30-90 days) to do this after leaving your job.
WeCovr: Your Partner in Smart Switching
Navigating the private health insurance market can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. WeCovr is an FCA-authorised broker specialising in the UK private medical insurance landscape.
Our expert advisors make the CPME switching process simple and secure.
- We listen: We start by understanding your priorities – whether it’s cost, cover, or service.
- We compare: We use our expertise and technology to search for policies from the UK's best PMI providers that fit your needs.
- We handle the admin: We manage the application from start to finish, ensuring the CPME terms are applied correctly and there are no gaps in your protection.
- We add value: When you arrange a policy through us, you get more than just insurance. You'll receive complimentary access to our CalorieHero AI nutrition app and can get discounts on other policies like life or home insurance. Our goal is to be your long-term partner in health and financial wellbeing.
Beyond Insurance: A Holistic Approach to Your Health
While having the right private medical insurance provides peace of mind, the ultimate goal is to stay healthy. Modern insurers recognise this, and many policies now include benefits designed to support a proactive approach to wellness.
Here are some simple, evidence-based tips for maintaining your health, supported by NHS guidelines:
- A Balanced Diet: Focus on the principles of the NHS Eatwell Guide. Aim for plenty of fruits and vegetables, wholegrains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Using an app like the CalorieHero tool, which WeCovr provides to its clients, can make tracking your nutrition simple and insightful.
- Regular Physical Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like a brisk walk or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or tennis) per week. Find something you enjoy to make it a sustainable habit.
- Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It is crucial for physical recovery, mental clarity, and immune function. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and a dark, quiet environment.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can impact your physical health. Practices like mindfulness, spending time in nature, connecting with friends and family, and pursuing hobbies can make a big difference. Don't hesitate to use the mental health support services often included in modern PMI policies.
By combining a healthy lifestyle with a robust private health cover plan, you create a powerful strategy for your long-term wellbeing.
Can I switch insurers if I am currently having treatment?
Will my premium be cheaper if I switch on a CPME basis?
Do I have to declare all my old medical conditions on a CPME application?
What happens to my 'no claims discount' if I switch insurers?
Ready to see if you could get better private medical insurance for a lower price, without losing any of your hard-won cover?
Contact WeCovr today for your free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly, expert advisors are ready to help you navigate the market with confidence.
Related guides
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!
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.
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