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WPA Private Medical Insurance in 2026 Is It The Right Choice

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 2, 2026
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WPA Private Medical Insurance in 2026 Is It The Right Choice

TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr offers this in-depth review of WPA private medical insurance. In the complex UK market, understanding your options is crucial for securing the right health cover for you and your family. WeCovr reviews WPA's community-focused health cover and compares it against the corporate giants In an ever-shifting UK healthcare landscape, choosing the right private medical insurance (PMI) is more important than ever.

Key takeaways

  • Prompt access to treatment: Bypass long NHS waiting lists for eligible conditions.
  • Choice of specialists and hospitals: Select a leading consultant and a convenient, high-quality private hospital.
  • Privacy and comfort: Enjoy a private en-suite room during your hospital stay.
  • Access to advanced treatments: Some policies cover drugs or treatments not yet available on the NHS.
  • No Shareholders: Unlike its publicly-listed competitors, WPA has no shareholders to pay dividends to.

As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr offers this in-depth review of WPA private medical insurance. In the complex UK market, understanding your options is crucial for securing the right health cover for you and your family.

WeCovr reviews WPA's community-focused health cover and compares it against the corporate giants

In an ever-shifting UK healthcare landscape, choosing the right private medical insurance (PMI) is more important than ever. While household names like Bupa and AXA dominate the market, a different kind of provider, Western Provident Association (WPA), offers a compelling alternative. WPA operates on a not-for-profit basis with a unique community focus.

But is its distinctive approach the right one for your health and financial needs in 2026? This comprehensive review from WeCovr will delve into everything WPA offers, from its core philosophy to its policy specifics. We'll examine its key benefits, potential drawbacks, and compare it head-to-head with the industry's corporate titans, helping you make a truly informed decision.

The State of UK Healthcare: Why Private Medical Insurance is on the Rise

Navigating healthcare in the UK has become a significant concern for many families. While the National Health Service (NHS) remains a cherished institution, it faces unprecedented pressures. In late 2024, NHS England's waiting list for routine treatments stood at a staggering 7.5 million people. This has led to lengthy waits for consultations, diagnostics, and essential surgery, causing anxiety and prolonged discomfort for patients.

This is where private medical insurance steps in. PMI is not a replacement for the NHS, which remains essential for accident and emergency services, but rather a parallel system designed to offer you more choice, control, and speed when you need it most.

Key benefits of having private health cover include:

  • Prompt access to treatment: Bypass long NHS waiting lists for eligible conditions.
  • Choice of specialists and hospitals: Select a leading consultant and a convenient, high-quality private hospital.
  • Privacy and comfort: Enjoy a private en-suite room during your hospital stay.
  • Access to advanced treatments: Some policies cover drugs or treatments not yet available on the NHS.

The Golden Rule of UK PMI: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Before we go any further, it's vital to understand the fundamental principle of private medical insurance in the UK.

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.

PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you already have or have had symptoms of) or chronic conditions (illnesses that are long-term and require ongoing management, like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure). The NHS will continue to provide your care for these.

Who Are WPA? A Different Breed of Health Insurer

Founded in 1901, WPA is one of the UK's most established health insurers. Yet, what truly sets it apart is its structure and ethos. WPA is a provident association, meaning it operates on a not-for-profit basis.

What does this mean for you as a policyholder?

  • No Shareholders: Unlike its publicly-listed competitors, WPA has no shareholders to pay dividends to.
  • Reinvestment of Profits: Any financial surplus is reinvested back into the organisation. This is used to enhance benefits, improve customer service, and keep premiums competitive.
  • Customer-First Focus: The organisation's primary goal is the wellbeing of its members, not maximising shareholder returns.

This structure underpins WPA's community-focused philosophy. They aim to build long-term relationships with their members, offering stable, transparent, and fair health insurance. This commitment to excellence has been recognised at the highest level—WPA is a proud holder of a Royal Warrant as suppliers of health insurance to Her Majesty The Queen, a significant mark of quality and trust.

WPA Health Insurance Policies: What’s on Offer in 2026?

WPA's main offering for individuals and families is their Flexible Health policy. As the name suggests, it's designed to be tailored to your specific needs and budget. It starts with a core foundation of essential cover, to which you can add various optional extras.

Let's break down the components.

Core Cover: Flexible Health Essentials

This is the bedrock of your policy, covering the most significant costs associated with private treatment.

Included in Core CoverDetails & Explanation
Hospital TreatmentCovers costs for surgery and other treatments when you are admitted to a hospital as an in-patient or day-patient.
Specialist FeesPays for the fees charged by surgeons and anaesthetists, up to WPA's published fee guidelines.
Diagnostic TestsIncludes costs for tests like MRI, CT, and PET scans when you are in hospital.
NHS Hospital Cash BenefitIf you choose to have your treatment on the NHS, WPA provides a cash payment for each night you spend in an NHS hospital.
Cancer CareComprehensive cover for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.

Optional Extras: Tailoring Your Policy

This is where you can customise your plan. You only pay for the cover you need, allowing for greater control over your premium.

Optional ExtraWhat It CoversWho Is It For?
Out-patient CoverConsultations with specialists, diagnostic tests, and scans that don't require a hospital stay. This is one of the most popular and useful add-ons.Anyone who wants rapid diagnosis without waiting for an NHS specialist appointment.
Therapies CoverPhysiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment. Often subject to a referral from a GP or specialist.Individuals with active lifestyles, those in manual jobs, or anyone prone to musculoskeletal issues.
Dental CoverA contribution towards the cost of routine dental care, accidental dental injuries, and dental emergencies.A great option for families or anyone wanting to budget for their dental health.
Overseas TreatmentProvides an option for elective treatment in a list of specified overseas hospitals.Those who travel frequently or are open to seeking treatment abroad.
Cash ExtrasProvides fixed cash payments for a range of treatments and events, such as a GP visit, a health screen, or even the birth of a child.People who want a simple way to claim back money for everyday health expenses.

Understanding Your Choices: Excess and Underwriting

When setting up your WPA policy, you'll make two key decisions:

  1. Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250 and WPA pays the remaining £2,750. Choosing a higher excess will lower your monthly premium.
  2. Underwriting: This is how the insurer assesses your medical history to determine what is covered.
    • Moratorium Underwriting: You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer will automatically exclude any condition you've had symptoms of, or received treatment for, in the 5 years before your policy starts. These exclusions can be lifted if you go 2 full years on the policy without any symptoms or treatment for that condition.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer reviews your medical history and explicitly lists any conditions that will be excluded from cover from day one. This provides absolute clarity but means those exclusions are permanent.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can walk you through these options, helping you understand which underwriting method is best for your personal circumstances.

The WPA Difference: Key Benefits and Unique Features

WPA stands out from the crowd with several unique features that directly stem from its not-for-profit, member-first ethos.

Shared Responsibility and Pooled Risk

This is perhaps WPA's most significant differentiator. Instead of a traditional No Claims Discount (NCD), WPA uses a 'Shared Responsibility' model on its flagship Flexible Health policies.

How it works: You agree to pay 25% of the cost of each claim for out-patient consultations and treatment, up to a chosen annual limit (e.g., £1,000). WPA pays the other 75%. (illustrative estimate)

  • Example: You have an out-patient consultation and an MRI scan costing a total of £800.
    • Illustrative estimate: You pay 25% = £200.
    • Illustrative estimate: WPA pays 75% = £600.

Why is this a good thing? This co-payment model encourages members to be mindful of treatment costs, which helps keep the overall claims fund lower for everyone. This, in turn, allows WPA to offer:

  • Lower initial premiums: The monthly cost is often more affordable than a comparable policy from a major competitor.
  • More predictable renewals: Because your premium isn't tied to a volatile NCD, your renewal prices tend to be more stable and less likely to see a huge spike after you make a claim. This removes the "fear of claiming" that many people with NCD-based policies experience.

Community Rated Schemes for Small Businesses

For small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), WPA offers 'Community Rated' schemes. Unlike traditional schemes where a small company's claims history can drastically increase its premium at renewal, WPA pools the risk across a larger community of similar businesses. This provides much-needed price stability and predictability for small business owners.

Advanced Technology and Member Support

WPA invests heavily in technology to support its members. The WPA Health app provides a secure portal to manage your policy, make claims, and access health information. They also offer a remote GP service, providing 24/7 access to a doctor via phone or video call, which is an invaluable benefit for busy individuals and families.

WPA vs. The 'Big Three': Bupa, AXA, and Aviva

How does WPA's unique model stack up against the corporate giants of the UK private medical insurance market? While all providers aim to get you treated quickly, their philosophies and policy structures differ significantly.

FeatureWPABupa, AXA Health, Aviva (The 'Big Three')
Business StructureNot-for-profit Provident Association. Profits are reinvested for members.For-profit global corporations. Profits are paid to shareholders.
Core PhilosophyCommunity-focused, member-first. Emphasis on long-term stability.Commercially driven. Focus on market share and shareholder value.
Pricing ModelShared Responsibility (co-payment) and Pooled Risk. No No Claims Discount.Primarily based on a No Claims Discount (NCD). Premiums are discounted for not claiming but can rise sharply after a claim.
Renewal ImpactPremiums are generally more stable and predictable year-on-year.Premiums can be volatile. A large claim can result in losing your NCD and a significant price hike at renewal.
Key AppealFairness, transparency, and predictable costs. Removes the "fear of claiming".Attracts customers with high initial NCDs, offering a large upfront discount.
Digital ToolsStrong offering with WPA Health app and 24/7 remote GP services.Excellent digital offerings, extensive wellness apps, and rewards programmes (e.g., Aviva's partnership with Headspace).
Hospital NetworkExtensive list of several hundred UK private hospitals.Very large, comprehensive hospital networks. Some may offer tiered lists to control costs.

The WeCovr Verdict:

There is no single "best" provider; there is only the best provider for you.

  • Choose WPA if: You value long-term price stability and predictability. If you dislike the idea of being "penalised" with a huge premium increase just for using the insurance you've paid for, WPA's model will be very appealing. Its not-for-profit status also resonates with those who prefer a member-centric organisation.
  • Consider the 'Big Three' if: You are attracted by a large upfront No Claims Discount and are comfortable with the risk of a price increase if you claim. They also offer vast brand recognition and sometimes have broader wellness programmes and reward partnerships.

The best way to decide is to see real quotes side-by-side. At WeCovr, our expert advisors can generate a full market comparison for you, showing exactly how a WPA policy compares against quotes from Bupa, AXA, Aviva, and others for the level of cover you need. This service is completely free and impartial.

Considering the Downsides: When Might WPA Not Be the Right Fit?

To provide a balanced review, it's important to consider scenarios where WPA might not be the ideal choice.

  • You dislike co-payments: The Shared Responsibility model is central to WPA's individual policies. If you prefer the simplicity of paying a single fixed excess per year and having the insurer cover 100% of the costs after that, a traditional policy from another provider might be more suitable.
  • You want the biggest possible hospital list: While WPA's hospital network is extensive and covers the vast majority of needs, the very largest corporate providers might have slightly larger or more flexible lists in some niche cases. It's always crucial to check that your local preferred hospital is included on any policy you consider.
  • You're heavily motivated by an initial discount: If you have a long history of not claiming on a previous PMI policy, you might be offered a very high NCD (e.g., 70-80%) by a competitor. This could make their initial premium cheaper than WPA's, though it's crucial to remember this discount is not guaranteed for life.

Decoding the Cost: WPA Private Medical Insurance Premiums in 2026

The cost of any private medical insurance policy depends on several key factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older, as the statistical risk of needing medical treatment rises.
  • Location: Treatment costs are higher in some areas, particularly Central London, so premiums are adjusted accordingly.
  • Cover Level: The more optional extras you add (like out-patient or dental cover), the higher the premium.
  • Excess & Shared Responsibility: Choosing a higher excess or a higher cap on your Shared Responsibility co-payment will lower your monthly cost.

To give you an idea, here are some illustrative monthly premiums for a WPA Flexible Health policy in 2026. These examples are for an individual living outside London.

Age GroupCore Cover + Mid-level Out-patient (e.g., £1,000 limit)Core Cover Only (In-patient)
30-year-old~ £55~ £35
45-year-old~ £80~ £50
60-year-old~ £130~ £90

Disclaimer: These are example figures only and not a formal quote. Your actual premium will depend on your specific circumstances and chosen cover options.

Beyond Insurance: Wellness Benefits and WeCovr Extras

Modern health insurance is about more than just paying for treatment; it's about promoting a healthier lifestyle to prevent illness in the first place. WPA provides its members with access to health information, a 24/7 remote GP, and support helplines.

At WeCovr, we believe in adding even more value to your health journey.

  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: When you arrange your health insurance through us, you get free access to our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. This powerful tool helps you make smarter food choices, manage your weight, and build healthy eating habits for life.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: As a valued WeCovr client, securing your health insurance with us can unlock discounts on other vital protection policies, such as life insurance or income protection. We can help you build a complete financial safety net for your family at the best possible price.

Simple Tips for a Healthier 2026

A PMI policy is a safety net, but the best strategy is always to invest in your own health.

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Use a tool like CalorieHero to understand your intake.
  • Regular Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, like brisk walking or cycling, per week, as recommended by the NHS.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's crucial for mental and physical recovery.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is vital for energy levels, brain function, and overall health.

Final Verdict: Is WPA the Right Choice for You?

WPA presents a powerful and refreshing alternative in the UK private medical insurance market. Its not-for-profit status, combined with its unique Shared Responsibility and Pooled Risk models, creates a proposition built on fairness, transparency, and long-term stability.

It is an excellent choice for individuals, families, and small businesses who are tired of the unpredictable price hikes associated with traditional No Claims Discounts and who want to partner with an insurer whose primary focus is its members, not its shareholders.

However, it may be less suitable for those who prefer a simple, fixed-excess model without any co-payments, or for those who are able to secure a very high initial NCD from a competitor.

Ultimately, the only way to know for sure is to compare. By assessing WPA's offering against the best from the rest of the market, you can make a confident choice that aligns perfectly with your health needs and your budget.

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 specifically for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy has started. When you apply, any condition for which you have experienced symptoms or sought advice in the 5 years prior will typically be excluded, either permanently (with Full Medical Underwriting) or for a set period (with Moratorium underwriting).

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

'Shared Responsibility' is WPA's unique alternative to a No Claims Discount. On their Flexible Health policies, you agree to pay a percentage (usually 25%) of your out-patient claims, up to a pre-agreed annual limit. For example, if you have a £1,000 bill for scans and consultations, you would pay £250 and WPA would pay £750. This co-payment model helps keep premiums lower and more stable at renewal, as the cost risk is shared between the member and the insurer.

Is WPA cheaper than Bupa, AXA, or Aviva?

WPA can often be cheaper, especially in the long run. Its 'Shared Responsibility' model can lead to lower initial premiums compared to policies with no co-payment. More importantly, its premiums tend to be more stable and predictable at renewal because they don't use a volatile No Claims Discount system that can cause large price spikes after a claim. However, the "cheapest" option depends entirely on your age, location, and chosen cover. The only way to know for sure is to get a personalised comparison from an expert broker like WeCovr.

Do I need a broker to buy WPA health insurance?

While you can go to WPA directly, using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr comes at no extra cost to you and offers significant advantages. A broker provides impartial advice and can compare WPA's quotes against the entire market, including Bupa, AXA, and Aviva. This ensures you're not just getting a good policy, but the *best* policy for your specific needs and budget, saving you time, effort, and potentially a great deal of money.

Ready to see if WPA is the right private medical insurance choice for you and your family?

The expert, friendly team at WeCovr is here to help. We provide free, no-obligation quotes, comparing WPA against all major UK insurers to find your perfect health cover. Start your journey to faster healthcare today.

Sources

  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality, earnings, and household statistics.
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance and consumer protection guidance.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life insurance and protection market publications.
  • HMRC: Tax treatment guidance for relevant protection and benefits products.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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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 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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