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Veneers vs Crowns in the UK Differences, Costs & Which Is Better (2026)

Veneers vs Crowns in the UK Differences, Costs & Which Is...

Seeking a brighter, more confident smile is a common goal, but navigating the world of cosmetic and restorative dentistry can be complex. As FCA-authorised experts with experience in over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the importance of clear, reliable information, whether for your smile or your UK private medical insurance.

A side-by-side comparison of veneers and crowns, including costs, durability, suitability and long-term value

When it comes to transforming your teeth, two of the most popular and effective treatments are veneers and crowns. While both can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile, they serve different purposes, involve different procedures, and come with different price tags.

Think of it like this: a veneer is like a new, high-quality facade for a building, enhancing its appearance. A crown is more like a new roof and structural reinforcement, protecting the entire building from the top down.

This guide will break down every aspect of veneers versus crowns, empowering you to have an informed conversation with your dentist and make the best choice for your oral health, budget, and aesthetic goals.

What Are Veneers? An In-Depth Look

A dental veneer is a very thin, custom-made shell of tooth-coloured material designed to cover the front surface of a tooth. Its primary purpose is to improve aesthetics, correcting a wide range of cosmetic imperfections with a minimally invasive procedure.

What are veneers made of?

Veneers in the UK are typically made from one of two materials:

  1. Porcelain: This is the gold standard for veneers. Porcelain has a translucent quality that uncannily mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel. It's highly resistant to staining from coffee, tea, and red wine, and with proper care, it's incredibly durable.
  2. Composite Resin: This is a tooth-coloured filling material that can be applied directly to the tooth and sculpted into shape by the dentist in a single visit. Composite veneers are generally more affordable than porcelain but are more prone to staining and have a shorter lifespan.

What problems can veneers fix?

Veneers are a fantastic solution for a host of cosmetic concerns, including:

  • Permanent Stains: For discolouration that doesn't respond to professional whitening, such as staining from tetracycline antibiotics or excessive fluoride.
  • Chips and Cracks: Minor damage to the front of a tooth can be easily masked.
  • Gaps: Veneers can be shaped to close small gaps (diastemas) between teeth.
  • Minor Misalignment: They can create the illusion of a perfectly straight smile for slightly crooked or misshapen teeth.
  • Worn-Down Teeth: To restore the original length and shape of teeth that have been worn down over time.

The Veneer Procedure: Step-by-Step

Getting porcelain veneers is typically a two-visit process:

  1. Consultation & Preparation: You'll discuss your desired outcome with your dentist. The dentist will then prepare the tooth by removing a tiny amount of enamel from the front surface (usually less than 0.5mm). This is to ensure the veneer sits flush with your other teeth and doesn't look bulky.
  2. Impressions: An impression (mould) of your prepared tooth is taken and sent to a dental laboratory where your custom veneer will be crafted. This can take 1-2 weeks. You may be fitted with a temporary veneer in the meantime.
  3. Bonding & Fitting: At your second appointment, the dentist will check the fit and colour of the veneer. After cleaning your tooth, the veneer is permanently bonded into place using a special cement and a high-intensity light to cure it.

Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers

Pros of VeneersCons of Veneers
Excellent Aesthetics: Provide a very natural, beautiful appearance.Irreversible: A layer of enamel is removed and cannot be replaced.
Minimally Invasive: Only a very small amount of tooth structure is removed.Not a Structural Solution: Cannot fix severely broken or decayed teeth.
Stain Resistant: Porcelain veneers resist staining much better than natural teeth.Cost: Can be a significant investment, especially for multiple teeth.
Well-Tolerated: Gum tissue generally tolerates porcelain well.Potential for Replacement: They do not last forever and will need replacing.

What Are Crowns? A Comprehensive Guide

A dental crown, often called a "cap," is a restoration that completely covers or encases a tooth or dental implant. Unlike a veneer, which only covers the front surface, a crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth down to the gum line. Its purpose is both restorative—to strengthen a damaged tooth—and cosmetic.

What are crowns made of?

Crowns are available in several materials, each with unique properties:

  • All-Porcelain or All-Ceramic: These offer the best natural colour match and are an excellent choice for front teeth.
  • Zirconia: A very strong type of ceramic, zirconia crowns are incredibly durable and can be used for any tooth in the mouth. They combine strength with good aesthetics.
  • Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): These have a metal shell for strength, covered by a layer of porcelain for appearance. They are very strong but can sometimes show a dark line at the gum over time.
  • Metal Alloys (e.g., Gold): Extremely durable and kind to opposing teeth, gold crowns are often used for molars at the back of the mouth where they are not visible.

When is a dental crown necessary?

A dentist will recommend a crown when a tooth is too damaged for a simple filling or veneer. Common reasons include:

  • Severe Tooth Decay: To protect a weak tooth after a large cavity has been removed.
  • After a Root Canal: A tooth is more brittle after root canal treatment and requires a crown for protection.
  • Cracked or Broken Tooth: To hold a severely cracked tooth together and restore its function.
  • Severe Wear: For teeth worn down by grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion.
  • To Anchor a Bridge: Crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of a gap to support a dental bridge.
  • Cosmetic Modification: For a tooth that is so misshapen or discoloured that a veneer is not a suitable option.

The Crown Procedure: A Two-Visit Process

Similar to veneers, getting a crown usually requires two appointments:

  1. Consultation & Preparation: The dentist will examine the tooth, often with X-rays. The tooth is then reshaped by filing it down on all sides and the top to make room for the crown. The amount of tooth removed is significantly more than for a veneer.
  2. Impressions & Temporary Crown: An impression is taken of the prepared tooth and sent to the lab. A temporary crown is placed over your tooth to protect it while the permanent one is being made.
  3. Final Fitting: At the second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is checked for fit, bite, and colour. If everything is perfect, it's cemented permanently into place.

Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns

Pros of CrownsCons of Crowns
Superior Strength: Provides excellent protection for a damaged tooth.More Invasive: Requires significant removal of the natural tooth structure.
Full Coverage: Can fix major aesthetic and structural issues.Higher Cost: Generally more expensive per tooth than a veneer.
Very Durable: Can last for decades with good care.Potential for Nerve Issues: The extensive preparation can sometimes irritate the tooth's nerve.
Versatile: Can be used on any tooth, including molars that take heavy chewing force.Aesthetics (PFM): Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can show a metal line at the gum.

Veneers vs Crowns: The Key Differences at a Glance

To simplify the choice, here is a direct, side-by-side comparison of the most important factors.

FeatureVeneersCrowns
Primary PurposeCosmetic Enhancement: To improve the appearance of the front of the tooth.Restorative & Cosmetic: To strengthen, protect, and improve the appearance of the entire tooth.
Tooth PreparationMinimal: 0.3mm to 0.5mm of enamel removed from the front surface only.Significant: 1mm to 2mm or more of enamel removed from the entire tooth surface.
CoverageCovers only the front surface of the tooth.Covers the entire tooth down to the gum line.
Best ForMinor issues: chips, stains, small gaps, slight crookedness.Major issues: large fractures, severe decay, post-root canal, significant structural weakness.
MaterialPorcelain or Composite Resin.Porcelain, Zirconia, Ceramic, Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM), Metal Alloys.
ProcedureLess invasive; preserves more of the natural tooth.More invasive; a larger portion of the tooth is removed.
DurabilityGood (Porcelain: 10-15 years+).Excellent (15-20 years+, often much longer).
Typical CandidateSomeone with healthy, structurally sound teeth who wants to improve their appearance.Someone with a compromised, weak, or severely damaged tooth that needs protection.

UK Costs for Veneers and Crowns in 2026

The cost of dental work is a major consideration for most people in the UK. Prices can vary significantly based on the dentist's location (London clinics are often more expensive), their expertise, the quality of the materials used, and the complexity of the case.

The following are estimated private costs for 2026, based on current market rates and anticipated inflation.

How much do veneers cost in the UK?

  • Composite Veneers (Direct): £250 – £500 per tooth. These are a more budget-friendly option but require more maintenance.
  • Porcelain Veneers: £700 – £1,500 per tooth. This is the more durable and aesthetic option, reflecting a higher initial investment for a longer-lasting result.

How much do crowns cost in the UK?

The cost of a crown is heavily influenced by the material used.

  • Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): £600 – £1,100 per tooth.
  • All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain: £800 – £1,500 per tooth.
  • Zirconia: £850 – £1,600 per tooth.
  • Gold Alloy: £900 – £1,700+ per tooth (cost can fluctuate with the price of gold).

Estimated Private Dental Costs (2026)

TreatmentMaterialEstimated Cost Per Tooth (Private)
VeneerComposite Resin£250 – £500
VeneerPorcelain£700 – £1,500
CrownPFM£600 – £1,100
CrownAll-Ceramic / Porcelain£800 – £1,500
CrownZirconia£850 – £1,600

Is it cheaper to get veneers or crowns on the NHS?

This is a crucial point of distinction. The NHS provides dental care that is clinically necessary to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy.

  • Veneers: These are considered a purely cosmetic treatment by the NHS. As such, they are not available under NHS dental provision. You will always have to pay privately for veneers.
  • Crowns: A crown can be available on the NHS if there is a clear clinical need for it—for example, to restore a tooth after a root canal or to repair a large fracture. If you qualify, the treatment falls under the Band 3 NHS charge, which is currently £319.10 in England (this figure is subject to annual review and may be higher by 2026). However, the material choices on the NHS may be more limited (e.g., non-precious metal for molars) compared to private options.

Do Private Medical Insurance Policies Cover Veneers or Crowns?

This is one of the most common questions we receive, and the answer requires careful explanation.

Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not cover routine, cosmetic, or preventative dentistry. PMI is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions—that is, unexpected illnesses or injuries that arise after you take out your policy. It is not designed for managing long-term chronic conditions or pre-existing issues.

Therefore, under a standard PMI policy:

  • Veneers (for cosmetic reasons) are never covered.
  • A clinically necessary crown (e.g., for decay) is not covered.

The Exception: Dental Add-Ons and Cash Plans

Some of the best PMI providers offer optional dental and optical cover as an add-on to a core health insurance policy, for an extra premium. These add-ons are separate from the main policy and have their own set of benefits and limits. They may provide cover for:

  • Routine care: Check-ups, cleanings.
  • Restorative work: Fillings, crowns, root canals.

However, even with these add-ons, there are often annual financial limits, and purely cosmetic treatments like veneers are almost always excluded. A crown might be partially covered if it's clinically necessary, but you must check the policy wording carefully.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can be invaluable here. We help you navigate the complex world of private health cover, clearly explaining what is and isn't included, and finding a policy or add-on that genuinely meets your needs, saving you from any unwelcome surprises.

Durability and Lifespan: Which Lasts Longer?

Your new smile is an investment, so understanding its longevity is key.

Lifespan of Veneers

  • Composite Veneers: With good care, they typically last between 5 to 7 years before they may need polishing or replacement due to staining or chipping.
  • Porcelain Veneers: These are much more robust. You can expect them to last 10 to 15 years, and often even longer.

Lifespan of Crowns

  • All Types: A well-made and well-cared-for crown can last 15 to 20 years or more. It's not uncommon for gold or PFM crowns on back teeth to last for decades.

Factors That Affect Longevity

The lifespan of both veneers and crowns depends heavily on you. To maximise their life, you should:

  • Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day with a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
  • Attend Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist and hygienist as recommended.
  • Wear a Nightguard: If you grind your teeth (bruxism), a guard is essential to protect your restorations.
  • Be Mindful of Your Diet: Avoid biting down on very hard things like ice, boiled sweets, or opening packaging with your teeth.
  • Limit Staining Foods/Drinks: While porcelain is stain-resistant, the cement used can stain at the edges over time.

Which is Better for You? Making the Right Choice

The decision between veneers and crowns should always be made in consultation with a qualified dentist. However, here’s a simple guide to help you understand which might be more suitable for your situation.

You might be a better candidate for VENEERS if:

  • Your primary goal is to improve the cosmetic appearance of your teeth.
  • Your teeth are healthy and structurally sound, with no large fillings or decay.
  • Your concerns are relatively minor, like stains, small chips, or slight gaps.
  • You want the most conservative, least invasive option that preserves the most natural tooth.

Example: Sarah, a 30-year-old marketing manager, was self-conscious about a small chip on one front tooth and some yellowing on the adjacent one. Her teeth were otherwise healthy. Her dentist recommended two porcelain veneers to create a symmetrical, bright, and natural-looking smile.

You might be a better candidate for CROWNS if:

  • Your tooth is significantly damaged, cracked, or weakened by a large filling.
  • You have had a root canal treatment on the tooth.
  • Your tooth is severely worn down from grinding.
  • Your tooth is so misshapen or poorly aligned that a veneer cannot correct the issue.

Example: David, a 55-year-old, had a large amalgam filling from his youth that had failed, causing a large piece of his molar to break off. The tooth was weak and vulnerable. His dentist recommended a durable Zirconia crown to restore its shape, strength, and function for chewing.

Beyond the Smile: Health, Wellness & Private Medical Insurance

Your oral health is a window to your overall health. Neglecting it can have wider implications, while investing in it brings benefits far beyond a confident smile. It’s all part of a holistic approach to wellness.

At WeCovr, we believe in empowering our clients to take control of their health in every aspect. While a private medical insurance UK policy focuses on covering unexpected illnesses and injuries, it forms the cornerstone of your personal health strategy, giving you peace of mind and fast access to specialist care when you need it most.

To support your wellness journey, WeCovr clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. We also offer discounts on other types of cover, helping you build a comprehensive protection portfolio for you and your family. We are committed to not just being a broker, but a long-term partner in your health and wellbeing.

Can I get veneers or crowns on my UK private medical insurance?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) is for acute medical conditions and does not cover routine or cosmetic dentistry. Veneers are considered cosmetic and are never covered. A clinically necessary crown is also not covered by a standard policy. However, some providers offer optional dental insurance add-ons which may contribute a limited amount towards the cost of a necessary crown, but you must check the policy details carefully.

Is the procedure for veneers or crowns painful?

No, the procedures themselves should not be painful. Your dentist will administer a local anaesthetic to completely numb the tooth and surrounding area before any preparation work begins. You might feel some minor sensitivity or gum tenderness for a few days after the procedure, but this is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.

Do veneers and crowns ruin your natural teeth?

They don't "ruin" the teeth, but they do require a permanent alteration. For a veneer, a thin layer of enamel is removed. For a crown, a more significant amount of the tooth is removed. This means that once a tooth is prepared for a veneer or crown, it will always need to be covered by one. The underlying tooth is not ruined; it is simply reshaped to accommodate the restoration, which then protects it.

How do I find the best private medical insurance in the UK?

The best way to find the right private health cover is to use an independent, FCA-authorised PMI broker like WeCovr. A broker works for you, not the insurance companies. We can compare policies from across the market, explain the complex terms in plain English, and find a plan that fits your specific needs and budget, all at no extra cost to you.

Ready to take the next step in securing your health? Get a fast, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts help you compare the UK's leading private medical insurance providers.


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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:

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Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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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.

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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.

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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
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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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