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WPA Private Medical Insurance in 2025 Is It Right for You

WPA Private Medical Insurance in 2025 Is It Right for You

WeCovr reviews WPA's UK health cover and how it stacks up against other providers

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert, impartial reviews of the UK’s private medical insurance market. In this guide, we turn our spotlight onto WPA, a provider with a unique not-for-profit approach, to help you decide if its health cover is the right choice for your needs in 2025.

The conversation around health in the UK is more prominent than ever. With NHS waiting lists remaining a significant concern for many, a growing number of people are exploring private medical insurance (PMI) for the peace of mind, speed, and choice it can offer. Among the established names like Bupa and Aviva, WPA (Western Provident Association) stands out. But what makes it different, and does its unique model translate into better value and care for you and your family?

This comprehensive review will break down everything you need to know about WPA’s private health cover, from its core philosophy to its policy specifics, and how it compares to the wider market.

What is WPA and Why is its Not-for-Profit Status Important?

Unlike most major insurers in the UK, WPA is a provident association. This means it is a not-for-profit organisation, and that single fact fundamentally shapes its entire operation.

  • No Shareholders to Please: For-profit insurers are publicly traded companies, meaning they have a primary duty to their shareholders to maximise profits. WPA, by contrast, has no shareholders. Any financial surplus it generates is reinvested back into the organisation to improve services, enhance benefits, and keep premiums competitive for its members.
  • A Focus on Members: This structure allows WPA to prioritise the needs of its policyholders (or 'members'). Its decisions are driven by member benefit rather than profit margins. This has earned WPA a strong reputation for ethical practices and excellent customer service over its 120+ year history.
  • A Legacy of Trust: Founded in 1901, WPA has a long-standing heritage of providing health insurance to individuals, families, and businesses across the UK. This longevity speaks to a stable and reliable approach to healthcare funding.

Choosing a not-for-profit provider can feel like a more ethical choice, knowing that your premiums are directly funding the care and services of the membership pool, not dividend payouts.

The UK Health Landscape in 2025: Why Consider PMI Now?

To understand the value of any private medical insurance, we must first look at the context of the UK's public health service. The NHS is a national treasure, providing incredible care to millions. However, it is operating under unprecedented strain.

According to the latest NHS England data, the number of people on referral-to-treatment (RTT) waiting lists remains in the millions. In early 2025, the figure hovers around 7.5 million treatment pathways. For patients, this translates into potentially long and anxious waits for diagnosis and treatment.

For instance, the median waiting time for non-urgent, consultant-led treatment can stretch for many weeks, and for some specialities and regions, it is significantly longer. This is where PMI steps in. It's not a replacement for the NHS—which remains essential for accidents, emergencies, and chronic care—but a complementary service designed to handle acute conditions quickly.

The Critical Distinction: What PMI Does and Doesn't Cover

Before we dive into WPA's specific policies, it's crucial to understand a fundamental principle of all standard UK private medical insurance.

PMI is 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. Think of conditions like cataracts, joint problems requiring replacement, hernias, or diagnosable sources of pain.
  • A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury you had symptoms of, received advice for, or were treated for before your policy began. These are typically excluded from cover, at least for an initial period.
  • A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. The day-to-day management of chronic conditions is not covered by PMI and remains under the care of your NHS GP.

Understanding this distinction is the key to having the right expectations and avoiding disappointment. PMI is your key to swift diagnosis and treatment for new, curable health issues.

A Deep Dive into WPA's Private Health Cover Options for 2025

WPA's main individual and family policy is called Flexible Health. As the name suggests, it is built on a modular system, allowing you to tailor your cover to your specific needs and budget. It starts with a core foundation and allows you to add extra benefits.

WPA Flexible Health: The Core Tiers

WPA structures its cover across three main levels: Essentials, Premier, and Elite. Each level provides a different degree of coverage, particularly for out-patient diagnostics and treatments.

FeatureFlexible Health EssentialsFlexible Health PremierFlexible Health Elite
In-patient & Day-patient CareFull Cover: Hospital charges, specialist fees, surgery, etc.Full Cover: As Essentials.Full Cover: As Essentials.
Cancer CoverFull Cover (Core): Includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.Full Cover (Advanced): As Core, plus cover for experimental drugs and treatments.Full Cover (Advanced): As Premier.
Out-patient Consultations & TestsUp to £500 per policy year.Up to £1,000 per policy year.Full Cover: No yearly limit.
Out-patient Therapies (e.g., Physio)Optional Add-on.Included up to £750.Included up to £1,500.
Mental Health CoverOptional Add-on.Included (limits apply).Included (higher limits).
NHS Hospital Cash Benefit£150 per night.£200 per night.£250 per night.
Hospital ListA specified list of private hospitals.A more extensive list, including central London hospitals.Unrestricted access to any recognised UK hospital.

This tiered structure allows you to balance cost against the comprehensiveness of your cover. For example, a younger, healthier individual might be comfortable with the Essentials plan, knowing they have full in-patient cover for serious issues, while someone wanting complete peace of mind for diagnostics might opt for the Elite plan.

WPA's Unique Selling Point: 'Shared Responsibility'

Perhaps the most defining feature of WPA's policies is the Shared Responsibility option. This is a co-payment system that can significantly lower your monthly premiums.

Here’s how it works: Instead of a traditional excess (a fixed amount you pay per claim, e.g., £250), you agree to pay a percentage of each claim, typically 25%.

However, and this is the crucial part, your contribution is capped at an annual limit. For example, your Shared Responsibility limit might be £1,000 in a policy year.

Real-Life Example:

  • You have a WPA policy with a 25% Shared Responsibility and a £1,000 annual cap.
  • You need a minor out-patient procedure costing £800.
    • You pay 25% of the bill: £200.
    • WPA pays the remaining £600.
    • You have now used £200 of your £1,000 annual cap.
  • Later in the same year, you need knee surgery costing £8,000.
    • 25% of this bill would be £2,000.
    • However, your annual cap is £1,000, and you've already paid £200.
    • You only need to pay the remaining £800 to reach your cap.
    • WPA pays the outstanding £7,200.
  • For any further treatment in that policy year, WPA pays 100% because you have reached your Shared Responsibility cap.

This model is ideal for those who are happy to share a small part of the cost of their care in exchange for a much lower premium. It also encourages members to be more mindful of healthcare costs, which helps WPA keep overall prices down for everyone.

How Does WPA Stack Up? A 2025 Market Comparison

WPA operates in a competitive market dominated by a few large players. So, how does its offering compare to the likes of Bupa, Aviva, and Axa Health?

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can provide a detailed, side-by-side quote comparison, but here is a high-level overview of the key differences.

FeatureWPABupaAvivaAxa Health
Business ModelNot-for-Profit: Reinvests profits for members.For-Profit: Focus on shareholder returns.For-Profit: Focus on shareholder returns.For-Profit: Focus on shareholder returns.
Cost ControlShared Responsibility Co-payment: Unique model to lower premiums.Traditional Excess: Fixed amount per claim/year.Traditional Excess: Fixed amount per claim/year.Traditional Excess: Fixed amount per claim/year.
Referral ProcessOpen Referral: Generally high freedom to choose specialists.Guided Options: May steer you to specific 'Bupa-approved' consultants.Guided Options: Similar guided consultant lists on some plans.Guided Options: Strong emphasis on their network of specialists.
Digital HealthWPA Health app for claims and info.Bupa Touch App: Includes symptom checker and remote GP access.Aviva Digital GP: Strong emphasis on digital-first access.Doctor@Hand App: 24/7 virtual GP service is a core feature.
Wellness RewardsFocus on health information and support.N/AMyHealthCounts: Discounts for healthy living.N/A
Best ForCost-conscious consumers seeking ethical provider and control.Those wanting a well-known brand with an extensive direct network.Tech-savvy users who value digital GP access and wellness perks.People seeking strong digital support and comprehensive cancer care options.

WPA's primary appeal lies in its ethos and the Shared Responsibility model. If you are looking for the lowest possible premium and are willing to co-pay for treatment, WPA is often unbeatable on price. However, if you prefer the certainty of a fixed excess or value extensive digital health apps and wellness rewards, providers like Aviva or Axa might be more suitable.

The WeCovr Advantage: Navigating Your PMI Choice with an Expert

The private medical insurance UK market can be complex. Policies have different hospital lists, benefit limits, and subtle clauses in the small print. This is where using a specialist, independent broker like WeCovr makes all the difference.

  • Whole-of-Market View: We are not tied to any single insurer. We compare policies from WPA, Bupa, Aviva, Axa, Vitality, and more to find the one that truly fits your life and budget.
  • Expert Advice at No Cost: Our service is completely free to you. We earn a commission from the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium price. This means you get expert, unbiased advice without paying a penny extra. In fact, we can often find better deals than if you went direct.
  • Hassle-Free Process: We handle the paperwork and liaise with the insurer on your behalf, ensuring your application is smooth and correct. We are here to answer your questions at every stage.
  • Exclusive Benefits: When you arrange your PMI policy through WeCovr, you also receive complimentary access to our CalorieHero AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. Furthermore, our clients enjoy exclusive discounts on other types of insurance, such as life, critical illness, or income protection cover.

Taking a Proactive Approach to Your Health in 2025

While private medical insurance is an excellent safety net, the best strategy is always to invest in your long-term health and wellbeing. Small, consistent habits can make a huge difference in preventing illness and improving your quality of life.

  • Nourish Your Body: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods. The NHS 'Eatwell Guide' is a great starting point. Aim for five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also essential.
  • Move Every Day: The UK Chief Medical Officers' guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like a brisk walk or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or tennis) a week. Find an activity you enjoy to make it a sustainable habit.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Sleep is not a luxury; it's a biological necessity. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's vital for your immune system, mental clarity, and emotional regulation. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and minimise screen time before bed.
  • Manage Your Mind: Mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or simply spending time in nature can significantly reduce stress. Don't be afraid to talk about your feelings and seek help if you're struggling. Most top-tier PMI policies, including WPA's, now include valuable mental health support.

WPA Private Medical Insurance: The WeCovr Verdict

So, is WPA the right private medical insurance provider for you in 2025?

WPA could be an excellent choice if:

  • You are budget-conscious: The Shared Responsibility model can lead to some of the most competitive premiums on the market.
  • You value an ethical, member-focused approach: WPA's not-for-profit status is a significant draw for those who want to feel their money is going directly into the care pool.
  • You want more control over your healthcare: The co-payment model and open referral system empower you to be an active participant in your healthcare journey.
  • You have a family: The potential cost savings can make comprehensive cover more affordable for the whole family.

You might want to consider other providers if:

  • You prefer the certainty of a fixed excess: If you want to know exactly what you'll pay per claim, a traditional excess model from another insurer might be more comforting.
  • You want a highly integrated digital experience: While WPA has an app, providers like Aviva and Axa are arguably further ahead with their digital GP and health management tools.
  • You want wellness rewards: If being rewarded for staying active with cinema tickets or coffee is appealing, you might prefer Vitality or Aviva.

Ultimately, WPA offers a compelling and refreshingly different proposition in the UK private health cover market. Its focus on the member over the shareholder, combined with the innovative Shared Responsibility model, makes it a formidable option, particularly for those looking for value and an ethical provider.

Does WPA private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No. In line with all standard UK private medical insurance policies, WPA does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions. PMI is designed to provide cover for new, acute medical conditions that arise *after* your policy has started. When you apply, you will undergo underwriting, where you must declare your medical history, which will determine any specific exclusions on your policy.

What exactly is WPA's 'Shared Responsibility' and how does it work?

'Shared Responsibility' is WPA's unique co-payment system that helps lower your premiums. Instead of a traditional fixed excess, you agree to pay a percentage of each claim (e.g., 25%). Crucially, your total contribution is capped at a pre-agreed annual limit. Once you have paid up to your cap for the year, WPA pays 100% of any further eligible claims. It's a way of sharing the risk to achieve a lower ongoing cost.

Is it cheaper to buy WPA insurance directly or through a broker like WeCovr?

Using a broker like WeCovr will not cost you more than going direct, and it can often save you money. Brokers receive their commission from the insurer, so our expert advice and support are free for you. We can compare WPA's quotes against the entire market to ensure you're getting the most suitable cover at the best possible price, saving you time and providing peace of mind that you've made the right choice.

Ready to explore whether WPA is the right private medical insurance for you? The expert advisors at WeCovr are here to help. Get your free, no-obligation quote today and compare WPA against the UK's leading providers in minutes.

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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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