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What Is Outpatient Cover Your Essential Guide

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can feel complex, but it doesnt have to be. As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is here to demystify one of its most crucial components: outpatient cover.

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Mar 17, 2026

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What Is Outpatient Cover Your Essential Guide 2026

TL;DR

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can feel complex, but it doesnt have to be. As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is here to demystify one of its most crucial components: outpatient cover.

Key takeaways

  • Physiotherapy: Essential for recovering from musculoskeletal injuries, sports injuries, and surgery.
  • Osteopathy & Chiropractic Care: For treating back, neck, and other joint problems.
  • Psychotherapy & Counselling: Many policies offer cover for mental health treatment on an outpatient basis.
  • Minor Procedures: Small procedures carried out in a clinic setting, such as the removal of skin lesions.
  • Inpatient cover is the powerful engine, ready for the big jobs like surgery.

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can feel complex, but it doesn’t have to be. As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is here to demystify one of its most crucial components: outpatient cover.

Explaining outpatient diagnostics, treatment, and typical PMI outpatient limits across the UK

When you buy private health insurance, you're essentially buying peace of mind and faster access to medical care. Policies are typically built around a core of inpatient and day-patient cover, which pays for treatment when you're admitted to a hospital.

However, most medical journeys don't start with a hospital admission. They start with a visit to a specialist, a blood test, or a scan. This is the world of outpatient care, and whether your policy includes it can make a dramatic difference to your experience.

This guide will break down exactly what outpatient cover is, why it's so important, the different levels available, and how you can choose the right option for your needs and budget.

Inpatient vs. Day-patient vs. Outpatient: A Clear Distinction

Understanding these three terms is the key to unlocking how your health insurance policy works.

Type of CareDescriptionReal-Life Example
InpatientYou are formally admitted to a hospital and stay overnight for one or more nights for treatment, such as for major surgery.Having a hip replacement and staying in the hospital for three nights to recover.
Day-patientYou are formally admitted to a hospital for a planned procedure and occupy a bed, but you go home the same day.Having a cataract removal or an arthroscopy (keyhole joint surgery).
OutpatientYou visit a hospital or clinic for a consultation, test, or treatment but are not admitted and do not need a bed.Seeing a cardiologist for a check-up, having an MRI scan, or attending a physiotherapy session.

Most entry-level private medical insurance policies in the UK cover inpatient and day-patient care as standard. Outpatient cover is often an optional add-on, but it is one of the most valuable features you can include.

What is Outpatient Cover? A Simple Definition

In the simplest terms, outpatient cover pays for medical diagnosis and treatment that does not require you to be admitted to a hospital.

Think of it as the vital first step in your private healthcare journey. It's the bridge that takes you from your initial GP referral to a confirmed diagnosis and a treatment plan, all without the long waits that can sometimes be associated with the NHS. Without it, you would rely on the NHS for all your initial diagnostic tests and specialist appointments before your private cover could kick in for any subsequent inpatient surgery.

Crucial Note on Policy Limitations: It is essential to understand that standard UK private medical insurance, including outpatient cover, is designed to cover acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before taking out the policy) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing management).

The Two Pillars of Outpatient Cover: Diagnostics and Treatment

Outpatient cover can be neatly divided into two main functions: finding out what's wrong and then starting the process of making it right.

1. Outpatient Diagnostics: Finding the Problem

This is arguably the most powerful element of outpatient cover. It gives you fast access to the tests needed to get an accurate diagnosis. The NHS provides excellent diagnostic services, but the demand is immense. As of early 2025, NHS England continues to report significant waiting lists for diagnostic tests.

With private outpatient cover, you can bypass these queues. Common diagnostic tests covered include:

  • Consultations with Specialists (illustrative): The initial meeting with a consultant (e.g., a dermatologist, orthopaedic surgeon, or neurologist) following a GP referral. These appointments can cost between £200 and £400 privately.
  • Blood Tests: From simple checks to more complex panels.
  • Imaging Scans: This is a major benefit, as scans can be expensive and have long waiting lists.
    • MRI Scans (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
    • CT Scans (Computed Tomography)
    • PET Scans (Positron Emission Tomography)
    • X-rays
    • Ultrasounds

Example in Action: David, a 45-year-old runner, develops persistent knee pain. His GP suspects a ligament issue and refers him for an MRI. The local NHS waiting time is 14 weeks. David has a PMI policy with outpatient cover. He calls his insurer, gets authorisation, and has a private MRI scan within three days. The scan confirms a torn meniscus, and he can now move straight to planning treatment.

2. Outpatient Treatment: Starting the Recovery

Once you have a diagnosis, the next step is treatment. Outpatient cover can also pay for therapies and procedures that don't require a hospital bed.

Common outpatient treatments include:

  • Physiotherapy: Essential for recovering from musculoskeletal injuries, sports injuries, and surgery.
  • Osteopathy & Chiropractic Care: For treating back, neck, and other joint problems.
  • Psychotherapy & Counselling: Many policies offer cover for mental health treatment on an outpatient basis.
  • Minor Procedures: Small procedures carried out in a clinic setting, such as the removal of skin lesions.

Example in Action (continued): Following his MRI diagnosis, David's consultant recommends a course of six physiotherapy sessions to strengthen his knee. His outpatient cover pays for these sessions, allowing him to start his rehabilitation immediately.

Why is Outpatient Cover So Important in a PMI Policy?

For many, the primary reason for investing in private medical insurance in the UK is to avoid long waiting times. Outpatient cover is the key that unlocks this benefit.

Imagine your PMI policy is a high-performance car.

  • Inpatient cover is the powerful engine, ready for the big jobs like surgery.
  • Outpatient cover is the ignition key and the steering wheel. Without it, the car can't go anywhere.

By having outpatient cover, you take control of the entire medical journey. You ensure that from the moment your GP writes a referral letter, you can access private care quickly and seamlessly. This not only provides peace of mind but can also lead to better medical outcomes, as conditions are diagnosed and treated earlier.

Understanding Outpatient Cover Limits: What You Need to Know

Insurers know that outpatient cover is highly valuable, so they offer it at different levels to suit various needs and budgets. Rarely is it a simple "yes" or "no". Most policies will offer a range of limits, and choosing the right one is a key decision when tailoring your plan.

Here are the common structures you'll encounter:

  1. Full Cover: This is the premium option. It means your insurer will pay for all eligible outpatient consultations, diagnostics, and therapies in full, without any yearly financial cap. This provides the most comprehensive protection but also comes with the highest premium.

  2. Capped Cover (Monetary Limit): This is the most common option. Your insurer sets a fixed annual limit for outpatient services, for example, £500, £1,000, or £1,500. All your outpatient costs are deducted from this pot. Once the limit is reached, you would need to pay for any further outpatient care yourself or use the NHS. This is an excellent way to balance cost and coverage.

  3. Specific Limits: Some policies might break the limits down further. For example, you might have a £1,000 overall limit, but within that, a separate cap on therapies like physiotherapy (e.g., up to £500).

  4. Diagnostics Only: Some more basic policies may offer to cover the costs of diagnostic scans (like MRI and CT) but not the specialist consultations that precede or follow them. This can be a very cost-effective way to cover the most expensive tests while keeping premiums low.

Table: Comparing Typical Outpatient Limit Tiers

Policy TierTypical Outpatient LimitWho It's Good ForExample of How It Works
Basic / Entry-Level£0 - £500, or diagnostics only.Those on a tight budget who want cover mainly for major inpatient procedures and are happy to use the NHS for diagnostics.Your policy won't cover the specialist visit or initial tests, but it will cover the subsequent private surgery if needed.
Mid-Range / Most Popular£1,000 - £1,500 annual limit.Most people. It provides a good safety net for the majority of diagnostic pathways while keeping premiums manageable.Covers a specialist consultation (£250) and an MRI scan (£800), leaving a small amount for follow-up care.
Comprehensive / PremierFull cover (unlimited).Those who want complete peace of mind, have a higher budget, or anticipate needing more extensive diagnostic tests or therapies.Covers all consultations, scans, and the full course of recommended physiotherapy without you worrying about a cap.

Choosing the right level is a personal decision. A skilled PMI broker, like our team at WeCovr, can provide detailed quotes and help you model different scenarios to find the perfect fit for you.

Real-Life Scenarios: How Outpatient Cover Works in Practice

Let's look at a single medical issue and see how the outcome differs based on the level of outpatient cover.

The Patient: Susan, a 50-year-old office worker, has been experiencing persistent headaches and dizziness. Her GP is concerned and writes an open referral to a neurologist.

Scenario 1: Susan has a Comprehensive Policy with Full Outpatient Cover

  1. Action: Susan calls her insurer. They provide a list of approved neurologists. She books an appointment for the following week.
  2. Consultation (illustrative): The neurologist consultation costs £300. Her policy covers it.
  3. Diagnostics (illustrative): The neurologist recommends an urgent MRI of the brain to rule out anything serious. The MRI costs £900. Her policy covers it. She has the scan two days later.
  4. Follow-up & Treatment (illustrative): The scan is clear. The neurologist diagnoses tension headaches and refers her for 8 sessions of specialist physiotherapy. The therapy costs £640. Her policy covers it.
  5. Total Cost to Susan (illustrative): £0 (plus any policy excess).
  6. Timeline: From GP referral to starting treatment: less than two weeks.

Scenario 2: Susan has a Mid-Range Policy with a £1,000 Outpatient Limit

  1. Action: Susan follows the same initial steps.
  2. Consultation (illustrative): The £300 consultation is covered. Her remaining outpatient limit is now £700.
  3. Diagnostics: The £900 MRI is recommended. Her policy covers the remaining £700 of her limit.
  4. Shortfall: Susan must pay the £200 shortfall for the MRI herself. Her outpatient limit is now fully used for the year.
  5. Follow-up & Treatment: For the recommended physiotherapy, Susan must either self-fund it privately or go on the NHS waiting list.
  6. Total Cost to Susan: £200 (plus any policy excess).
  7. Timeline: From GP referral to diagnosis: less than two weeks. Treatment access is delayed or self-funded.

Scenario 3: Susan has a Basic Policy with No Outpatient Cover

  1. Action: Susan's policy only covers inpatient care. She must use the NHS for her diagnosis.
  2. NHS Pathway: She is placed on the NHS waiting list to see a neurologist. The waiting time is 24 weeks.
  3. Consultation: After six months, she sees the NHS neurologist.
  4. Diagnostics: The neurologist agrees an MRI is needed. She is placed on the NHS waiting list for diagnostics. The wait is a further 10 weeks.
  5. Follow-up & Treatment: After the scan, she waits for a follow-up NHS appointment and is then referred to NHS physiotherapy, which has its own waiting list.
  6. Total Cost to Susan: £0.
  7. Timeline: From GP referral to diagnosis: over 8 months.

These scenarios clearly illustrate how outpatient cover is the defining factor in the speed of your private medical journey.

Choosing the Right Level of Outpatient Cover for You

Deciding between a £500 cap, a £1,500 cap, or full cover can be daunting. Here are the key factors to consider: (illustrative estimate)

  • Your Budget: Premiums rise with the level of cover. Be realistic about what you can comfortably afford each month. A limited policy is far better than no policy at all.
  • Your Risk Appetite: Are you comfortable with the idea of potentially paying a few hundred pounds towards diagnostics if needed? If so, a capped policy is a great choice. If you want to eliminate any financial uncertainty, full cover is better.
  • NHS Waiting Lists in Your Area: Use NHS data to check the waiting times for key services at your local hospital trust. If lists are particularly long, you may feel a higher level of outpatient cover is more valuable.
  • Your Age and Health: While PMI doesn't cover pre-existing conditions, younger and healthier individuals may feel comfortable with a lower limit, knowing their risk of needing extensive tests is statistically lower.

Beyond the Basics: Extra Benefits and Considerations

When reviewing outpatient options, there are a few other important areas to check in the policy details.

Mental Health Cover

Cover for mental health is one of the most sought-after benefits of modern PMI. This is often treated separately from general outpatient cover. A policy might offer:

  • Full cover for physical conditions.
  • A separate, capped limit for outpatient mental health treatment, such as sessions with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist.

Always check the specific mental health provisions in any policy you are considering.

Therapies Cover

Some policies also place a separate limit on "therapies." This group typically includes physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care. For example, your policy might have a £1,500 outpatient limit, but state that a maximum of £500 of this can be used for therapies. This is an important detail, especially if you play sports or have a history of musculoskeletal issues.

Proactive Health and Wellness

The best way to manage healthcare costs is to stay healthy. Many modern insurers are embracing this, and so are we. At WeCovr, we believe in empowering our clients.

  • CalorieHero App: When you take out a policy with us, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you manage your diet and wellness goals.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: We value your loyalty. Clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us can often access discounts on other insurance products, such as travel or home insurance.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can significantly reduce your likelihood of needing to claim on your insurance, helping to keep your future premiums down.

How to Get the Best Private Medical Insurance UK Deal

Finding a strong fit for your needs is a balancing act. Here’s how to ensure you get the best value and the most appropriate cover.

  1. Use an Independent Broker: This is the single most important step. A broker like WeCovr has access to policies from across the UK market. We are not tied to a single insurer. Our experts provide impartial advice based on your unique needs, and there is no fee for our service. We have a high customer satisfaction rating because we prioritise finding the right solution for our clients.

  2. Compare Like-for-Like: When comparing quotes, ensure you are comparing the same levels of cover. Pay close attention to the outpatient limits, the excess level, and any specific caps on therapies or mental health.

  3. Consider Your Excess (illustrative): The excess is the amount you agree to pay towards the first claim you make in a policy year. Choosing a higher excess (e.g., £250 or £500) can significantly reduce your monthly premium.

  4. Review Annually: Your needs and circumstances can change. It’s wise to review your policy each year with your broker to ensure it still provides the best value for you.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, standard private medical insurance policies in the UK do not cover pre-existing conditions. PMI is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy has started. Chronic conditions that require long-term management are also typically excluded.

What's the difference between outpatient and day-patient cover?

Outpatient cover is for medical services where you are not admitted to hospital, such as a specialist consultation or an MRI scan. Day-patient cover is for when you are admitted to a hospital and use a bed for a planned medical procedure but are discharged on the same day, such as for minor surgery.

Can I just get outpatient cover on its own?

This is extremely rare. Outpatient cover is almost always sold as an add-on to a core private health cover policy that includes inpatient and day-patient treatment. The primary purpose of PMI is to cover the high costs of hospital admissions and surgery.

How do I make a claim for outpatient treatment?

The typical process is to first get a referral from your GP. You then contact your insurance provider to get pre-authorisation for your claim. They will confirm your cover and help you find a specialist or facility within their approved network. After your appointment or test, the provider usually bills your insurer directly, making the process smooth and simple.

Take the Next Step Towards Peace of Mind

Understanding outpatient cover is the key to unlocking the true value of private medical insurance. It's the feature that gives you control, speed, and choice when you need it most.

Ready to explore your options and find the right balance of cover and cost for your private health cover? The friendly, expert team at WeCovr is here to provide impartial advice and compare policies from leading UK providers.

Get your free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and secure your peace of mind.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.

Disclaimer: This is general guidance only and does not constitute formal tax or financial advice. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances, policy terms, and HMRC interpretation, which cannot be guaranteed in advance. Whenever applicable, businesses and individuals should always consult a qualified accountant or tax adviser before arranging such policies.

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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 experienced advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding a strong fit for your needs 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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