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Understanding Hospital Lists in PMI Policies

Understanding Hospital Lists in PMI Policies 2025

Choosing the right private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex, but it's a powerful way to secure fast access to healthcare. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we believe clarity is key. A crucial, yet often overlooked, detail is the "hospital list".

How hospital network restrictions affect your access to treatment

When you buy a private health cover policy, you're not just buying a promise of treatment; you're buying access to a specific network of hospitals. This network, commonly known as a "hospital list," is a directory of the private hospitals, day-patient units, and sometimes NHS private patient units where your insurer has agreed to cover the cost of your care.

Think of it like a mobile phone contract. Some contracts give you excellent coverage everywhere, whilst others are more limited to certain areas. Similarly, your PMI policy's hospital list dictates where you can receive treatment. Choosing a policy with a hospital list that doesn't include facilities near your home or work could mean travelling long distances for care, defeating one of the main benefits of going private: convenience.

Insurers create these lists for two primary reasons:

  1. Cost Control: Insurers negotiate preferential rates with specific hospital groups (like Nuffield Health, Spire Healthcare, or Circle Health Group). By directing their members to these "in-network" hospitals, they can manage costs effectively, which helps keep your premiums more affordable.
  2. Quality Assurance: Hospitals on an insurer's list must meet stringent criteria for clinical excellence, patient safety, and quality of care. This ensures that you receive treatment in a facility that is well-regarded and properly equipped.

Understanding your hospital list is not a minor detail—it's fundamental to how your policy will work for you in your moment of need.

The Different Tiers of Hospital Lists Explained

Insurers typically categorise their hospital lists into tiers. The tier you choose directly impacts both your premium and your breadth of choice. Moving up a tier grants you access to more hospitals, particularly prestigious and city-centre ones, but will increase your monthly cost.

Here's a breakdown of the common tiers you'll encounter when exploring private medical insurance UK options.

Tier LevelTypical NameLevel of AccessPremium CostBest For...
Entry-LevelEssential / Local / SignatureA curated list of private hospitals, often excluding those in major city centres like Central London.£Individuals on a budget who are happy with quality local treatment options.
Mid-LevelStandard / Nationwide / ComprehensiveAn extensive list of several hundred high-quality private hospitals across the entire UK.££Most people. It offers a fantastic balance between comprehensive choice and affordability.
Top-LevelPremium / Extended / London UpgradeIncludes everything in the standard list, plus access to the most prestigious and expensive hospitals, especially in Central London.£££Those who want maximum choice, including access to world-renowned specialists and facilities, regardless of cost.
Guided OptionGuided / Directed / Consultant's ChoiceThe insurer provides a shortlist of 3-4 recommended hospitals/specialists for your specific condition to keep costs down.£ (often discounted)People who are happy to trade some choice for a lower premium and trust their insurer's recommendations.

Tier 1: The Local or Essentials List

This is the most budget-friendly option. It provides access to a good network of local private hospitals but will explicitly exclude the more expensive facilities, most notably those within Central London.

  • Real-Life Example: Sarah, a 35-year-old teacher living in Yorkshire, wants the peace of mind of private health cover but needs to manage her outgoings. She chooses a policy with a local hospital list. It includes the Nuffield Health and Spire hospitals in Leeds and York, which are convenient for her. When she needs a minor surgical procedure, she can get it done quickly and locally without a hefty premium.

Tier 2: The Standard Nationwide List

This is the most popular choice for UK consumers. It provides a comprehensive directory of hundreds of private hospitals across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. You get an excellent degree of choice, ensuring that wherever you are in the country, you're likely to have an approved hospital nearby.

  • Real-Life Example: David is a 48-year-old sales director who travels across the UK for work. A standard nationwide list is perfect for him. Whether he's at home in Manchester, visiting clients in Bristol, or at a conference in Edinburgh, he knows he'll have access to a network hospital if a new, acute condition arises.

Tier 3: The Premium London List

This is the top-tier option, offering unrestricted choice. It includes all the hospitals from the standard list, plus the highly advanced and prestigious facilities concentrated in Central London, such as The London Clinic, The Wellington Hospital, or King Edward VII's Hospital.

  • Real-Life Example: Eleanor, a 62-year-old retired barrister living in Surrey, wants the absolute best care available. Her budget allows for a premium policy. She specifically wants the option to see a leading consultant at a renowned London hospital if she develops a complex condition. The premium list gives her this ultimate peace of mind.

Guided Options: A New Way to Save

A growing number of insurers now offer "Guided" or "Directed" options. With these plans, when you need treatment, the insurer will offer you a shortlist of 3-4 high-quality, cost-effective specialists and hospitals from their network. If you choose from this list, you're fully covered. If you decide to go "off-piste" and choose a different hospital, you may face a shortfall or need to pay an additional excess. This model allows insurers to offer a significant premium discount in exchange for reduced choice.

How to Choose the Right Hospital List for You

Selecting the right hospital list is a personal decision that balances cost, convenience, and choice. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can provide tailored advice, but here are the key questions you should ask yourself:

  1. Where do I live?

    • Use the insurer's online hospital directory to check which facilities on their "Local" list are near your home. Are they easy to get to? If not, you may need to consider a nationwide option.

  2. Where do I work or travel?

    • If you commute into a major city or travel frequently for work, a nationwide list offers greater flexibility and ensures you're covered away from home.

  3. What's my budget?

    • Be realistic about the monthly premium you can comfortably afford. A local list can reduce your premium by 15-20% compared to a standard nationwide list. Opting out of Central London can save even more.

  4. Do I have a specific consultant or hospital in mind?

    • If you want the option to be treated at a particular hospital, you must check it is included in the list before you buy the policy. This is a common mistake people make.

  5. How important is choice to me?

    • Are you happy to be guided by your insurer to a pre-approved, high-quality facility in return for a lower premium? Or does having complete freedom to choose any hospital (within your tier) matter more?

A Step-by-Step Checklist for Making Your Decision

  • Step 1: List Your Priorities. Write down what matters most: lowest cost, maximum choice, or a balance of the two.
  • Step 2: Check Your Local Hospitals. Use an insurer's online tool to see which hospitals are near you on their entry-level list.
  • Step 3: Consider Your Lifestyle. Think about your travel and work patterns.
  • Step 4: Get Comparative Quotes. Compare the premiums for different hospital list tiers. You'll be surprised at the difference it can make.
  • Step 5: Talk to an Expert. A specialist broker can do the heavy lifting, comparing lists from different insurers to find the perfect fit for your specific circumstances and location, all at no cost to you.

The 'Central London' Factor: Why a Postcode Can Cost You Thousands

You'll notice that "Central London" is the main dividing line between standard and premium hospital lists. There's a good reason for this—the cost of private treatment inside the M25, and particularly in postcodes like W1, is significantly higher than anywhere else in the UK.

Several factors contribute to this price difference:

  • Property & Staffing Costs: The overheads of running a hospital, from real estate to attracting top clinical staff, are far higher in Central London.
  • Specialist Fees: The city is a hub for world-leading consultants and surgeons who command higher fees for their expertise.
  • Advanced Technology: London's top private hospitals are often equipped with the very latest, multi-million-pound diagnostic and surgical technology.

To illustrate the point, here is a hypothetical cost comparison for a common procedure.

ProcedureCost at a Regional Private HospitalCost at a Top Central London HospitalPotential Cost Difference
Knee Replacement Surgery£14,000£22,000++57% or more
Cataract Surgery (one eye)£2,500£4,000++60% or more
MRI Scan£400£750++87% or more

Note: These are illustrative figures for demonstration purposes only. Actual costs vary by provider and hospital.

This is why insurers create a separate, more expensive tier for members who want access to these facilities. If you don't live or work near London and have no strong desire to be treated there, opting for a list that excludes these hospitals is one of the single most effective ways to lower your private medical insurance premium.

The Critical Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is one of the most important principles of private medical insurance in the UK. Standard policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • An Acute Condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, hernias, gallstones, and most cancers.
  • 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 comes back or is likely to come back, or it requires palliative care. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis.

Private medical insurance does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions. The NHS provides care for these long-term ailments. PMI is your partner for getting you back on your feet quickly when a new, unexpected, and treatable health issue occurs.

What Happens If I Need Treatment at a Hospital Not on My List?

This is a scenario you want to avoid, as it can be costly and stressful. If you choose to have treatment at a hospital that is not part of your selected network, one of two things will likely happen:

  1. Your Insurer Will Not Provide Cover: This is the most common outcome. You will be responsible for paying the entire hospital and specialist bill yourself. Given that a simple surgical procedure can run into thousands of pounds, this is a significant financial risk.
  2. A Shortfall Will Occur: In some very specific circumstances, an insurer might agree to pay the amount they would have paid at an equivalent hospital on your list. However, because out-of-network hospitals haven't agreed to the insurer's preferential rates, their fees will be higher. You would be liable for the difference, which could still be a substantial sum.

The Golden Rule: Always check with your insurer before booking any consultation or treatment to ensure the hospital and the specialist are both covered under your policy. Your access to the NHS is unaffected, so you can always receive treatment there if your preferred private option is not covered.

Simplify Your Choice with an Expert PMI Broker

Navigating the nuances of different hospital lists from providers like Aviva, Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality can be time-consuming. This is where an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr adds immense value.

We provide a personalised service at no extra cost to you. Our role is to:

  • Understand Your Needs: We listen to your requirements regarding location, budget, and level of cover.
  • Compare the Market: We have access to a wide range of policies and deep knowledge of their different hospital networks.
  • Check the Details: We can quickly verify if your local hospitals or a preferred specialist are on a specific insurer's list.
  • Find the Best Value: Our expertise ensures you don't pay for a level of access you don't need, or get caught out with a list that's unsuitable for you.

Furthermore, when you arrange your policy through WeCovr, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. We also offer discounts on other policies, such as life or income protection insurance, helping you protect your family's finances more affordably. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to finding the right cover for our clients.

Proactive Health: Small Steps for a Healthier Future

Whilst having robust health insurance is wise, the best strategy is to invest in your own wellbeing. A healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk of developing many acute conditions that require hospitalisation.

  • Nourish Your Body: Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is also crucial for overall health.
  • Stay Active: The NHS recommends adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or tennis) a week.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's vital for physical repair, mental health, and immune function.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can impact your physical health. Practices like mindfulness, yoga, or simply spending time in nature can make a big difference.

Taking these small, consistent steps can have a powerful, long-term impact on your health, complementing the safety net that private medical insurance provides.

Can I change my hospital list after my policy starts?

Yes, you can usually change your hospital list, but only at your annual policy renewal. You can choose to upgrade to a more comprehensive list (which will increase your premium) or downgrade to a more restricted list to save money. You cannot typically change your hospital list mid-term.

Do all private medical insurance providers in the UK use the same hospital lists?

No, every insurer has its own unique set of hospital lists and partnerships with hospital groups. Whilst there is a lot of overlap, especially with major groups like Nuffield Health and Spire, there are always differences. This is why it is crucial to check the specific list for the exact policy you are considering and not assume coverage.

What happens if I need emergency treatment? Will my hospital list matter?

Private medical insurance in the UK is not designed for emergencies. In a medical emergency (such as a heart attack, stroke, or serious accident), you should always call 999 and be taken to the nearest NHS A&E department. Your PMI hospital list is for pre-arranged, eligible treatment for acute conditions.

How can I check if a specific hospital is on a policy's list before I buy?

There are two main ways. Firstly, most insurers have an online "hospital finder" tool on their website where you can search for a facility. Secondly, and more simply, you can ask an expert broker like WeCovr. We can quickly compare multiple insurers and tell you which policies include your preferred hospital, saving you time and effort.

Ready to find a private health cover plan with the perfect hospital list for your needs and budget?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisers will help you navigate your options and secure the right protection for you and your family.

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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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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.

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