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WPA vs Bupa Specialist Coverage and Claims Record

WPA vs Bupa Specialist Coverage and Claims Record 2026

Choosing the right private medical insurance in the UK can feel like navigating a maze. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped over 900,000 customers find the right cover, we specialise in making this complex decision simple. This guide offers an expert comparison of two of the UK's leading providers: WPA and Bupa.

Key differences in customer experience, standards, and cost

When comparing WPA and Bupa, you're looking at two different philosophies in private healthcare. Bupa is a global healthcare giant, renowned for its vast network and comprehensive digital tools. WPA, a not-for-profit provident association, prides itself on a more personal touch and exceptional customer service.

The choice between them often comes down to what you value most: the scale and resources of a market leader or the bespoke service and flexibility of a specialist provider. This article will dissect their approaches to specialist coverage, claims handling, cost structures, and overall customer experience to help you make an informed decision.

WPA vs Bupa: A High-Level Overview

Before diving into the details, it's helpful to understand the fundamental differences between these two respected insurers. They operate on different models, which directly impacts their service, pricing, and policy features.

FeatureWPA (Western Provident Association)Bupa (British United Provident Association)
Business StructureNot-for-profit provident associationFor-profit company with no shareholders
Year Established19011947
Market PositionSpecialist provider, strong in corporate & professional marketsOne of the UK's largest and most recognised insurers
Core PhilosophyCustomer service, freedom of choice, reinvesting profitsComprehensive cover, extensive network, digital innovation
Target AudienceIndividuals, families, and companies seeking high service levelsBroad market, from individuals to large corporations
Key StrengthPersonal service and flexibility in choosing specialistsVast hospital network and integrated health services

Who is WPA?

WPA is one of the UK’s most established health insurers. As a provident association, they operate without shareholders. This not-for-profit status means any financial surplus is reinvested back into the organisation to improve services, enhance benefits, and maintain competitive premiums. They are known for their high customer satisfaction ratings and a focus on providing a personal, supportive claims journey.

Who is Bupa?

Bupa is a household name in UK healthcare. While also a provident association in origin and without shareholders, it operates on a much larger, commercial scale globally. Bupa invests its profits back into providing more and better healthcare. Its brand is built on a foundation of trust, a massive network of hospitals and consultants, and a wide array of health services that go beyond insurance, including care homes, dental clinics, and health assessments.

Deep Dive into Specialist Coverage

Access to a specialist consultant is one of the primary reasons people buy private medical insurance. This is where WPA and Bupa have one of their most significant differences.

A Critical Note on UK PMI: It's vital to understand that standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and expected to respond to treatment. It does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma) or pre-existing conditions you had before taking out the policy.

WPA's Approach: Freedom of Choice

WPA's model is built on giving you, the policyholder, maximum control. Their core principle is "Freedom of Choice."

  • Choose Your Specialist: With most WPA policies, you are not restricted to a pre-approved list of consultants. If your GP refers you to a specialist, WPA will typically cover them, provided they are recognised by their profession and practice within WPA's fee guidelines.
  • Choose Your Hospital: This freedom extends to hospitals. You have a wide choice of UK hospitals, including private wings of NHS hospitals.
  • How it Works: The process is straightforward. Your GP makes a referral, you choose your preferred specialist and hospital, and inform WPA. This flexibility is highly valued by customers who have a specific consultant in mind or live in an area with fewer "network" hospitals.

Bupa's Approach: The Power of the Network

Bupa operates a network-based model. They have agreements with thousands of hospitals, clinics, and consultants across the UK.

  • Structured Network: Bupa has meticulously built a network of trusted healthcare professionals. This allows them to negotiate fees, ensuring costs are managed and helping to keep premiums stable for customers.
  • Consultant Select (Open Referral): On many of their policies, Bupa uses an "Open Referral" system. When you need to see a specialist, you call Bupa first. They will then give you the names of several fee-assured specialists in your area, from which you can choose. This streamlines the process and ensures you won't face any unexpected shortfalls in specialist fees.
  • The Benefit: The advantage of Bupa's model is certainty. You know that any consultant or hospital within their network is fully covered (subject to your policy limits). Their digital tools, like the 'Bupa Touch' app, make finding a network specialist simple.

Comparison of Specialist Access

FeatureWPABupa
Choice of SpecialistGenerally, freedom to choose any recognised specialist.Choice from a pre-approved, fee-assured network (Open Referral).
Hospital NetworkExtensive list of eligible hospitals, offering broad choice.Large, structured network of partner hospitals.
Referral ProcessGP refers, you choose, you inform WPA.GP refers, you contact Bupa for a choice of approved specialists.
Fee CertaintyHigh, as WPA has published fee guidelines. You confirm with them first.Very high, as all network specialists are fee-assured.

For those seeking ultimate flexibility, WPA's approach is compelling. For those who prefer a guided, streamlined process with cost certainty, Bupa's network model is very effective. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you decide which model best aligns with your personal preferences and healthcare needs.

Analysing the Claims Record and Customer Experience

How an insurer handles your claim is the moment of truth. A smooth, empathetic, and efficient process is paramount. Both WPA and Bupa invest heavily in their claims service, but their customer feedback highlights different strengths.

WPA's Claims and Service Reputation

WPA consistently receives outstanding feedback for its customer service. This is their core differentiator.

  1. Personal Touch: Being a smaller organisation, WPA is often praised for its personal and consistent service. Customers report speaking to the same small teams, who are familiar with their case history.
  2. UK-Based Teams: All WPA staff are based in the UK, providing clear communication and a deep understanding of the UK healthcare landscape.
  3. Simple Claims: The process is designed to be straightforward. For many treatments, the hospital bills WPA directly. For out-patient claims, you can often submit them quickly via their app or online portal.
  4. High Satisfaction: WPA frequently tops independent customer satisfaction surveys for private health insurance, particularly for claims handling and service.

Bupa's Claims and Service Reputation

As a market leader, Bupa handles a vast volume of claims every day. Their systems are built for efficiency and scale.

  1. Digital-First Approach: Bupa's 'Bupa Touch' app and online portal are central to their customer experience. You can use them to start a claim, find a specialist, and view policy documents. This is ideal for those who prefer managing their affairs digitally.
  2. Large-Scale Operations: Bupa's large call centres are equipped to handle a high volume of queries. While the service is professional and efficient, you may not always speak to the same person, leading to a less personal feel compared to WPA.
  3. Direct Settlement: Like WPA, Bupa has direct settlement agreements with almost all private hospitals in the UK, meaning you rarely have to handle payments yourself for major procedures.
  4. Comprehensive Support: Bupa provides extensive support beyond just claims, including 24/7 access to their Anytime HealthLine staffed by nurses.

Customer Satisfaction and Trust

Based on public data from independent sources like Fairer Finance and Trustpilot (as of late 2024), a general picture emerges:

MetricWPABupa
Overall Customer ExperienceConsistently scores among the highest in the industry.Scores well, particularly for its digital tools and brand trust.
Claims SatisfactionVery high, praised for speed and empathy.Generally positive, though some customers report complexity in a large system.
Trust and TransparencyHigh, benefits from its not-for-profit ethos.Strong brand trust built over decades.
Complaint HandlingPraised for responsive and personal handling of issues.Has robust procedures in place to manage complaints at scale.

Understanding the Cost: Premiums and Excess

The cost of private health cover is a key consideration. Premiums are influenced by your age, location, lifestyle (e.g., smoking status), and the level of cover you choose.

WPA's Pricing and Value

WPA's not-for-profit structure can be an advantage. With no shareholders to pay dividends to, they can focus on reinvesting surpluses to keep premiums competitive and stable over the long term.

  • Shared Responsibility: WPA offers an innovative co-payment option on some policies. For example, you might agree to pay 25% of the cost of any claim, up to a set annual limit. This "Shared Responsibility" significantly reduces your monthly premium, making comprehensive cover more affordable.
  • Tailored Policies: They offer policies that can be precisely tailored, so you only pay for the cover you need. This is particularly useful for small businesses and self-employed professionals.

Bupa's Pricing and Value

Bupa's pricing reflects its position as a market leader with a vast network and comprehensive benefits.

  • Bupa By You: Their flagship individual policy is highly flexible. You can choose different levels of out-patient cover, add or remove therapies, and select from different hospital lists to control your premium.
  • No Claims Discount (NCD): Bupa operates a standard NCD system. For every year you don't claim, you receive a discount on your renewal premium, up to a maximum level. This rewards healthy living and can lead to significant long-term savings.
  • Excess Options: You can choose an excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) from £0 up to £1,000 or more. A higher excess will lower your premium.

Illustrative Cost Comparison

To give you an idea of potential costs, here are some illustrative examples. Please note: These are not quotes. Premiums are highly personalised. For an accurate price, it's essential to get a tailored quote.

ProfileWPA (Illustrative Monthly Premium)Bupa (Illustrative Monthly Premium)Key Considerations
30-year-old, non-smoker in Manchester£45 - £65£50 - £70Costs are broadly similar, but WPA's Shared Responsibility could lower the premium further.
45-year-old couple in Bristol£110 - £150£120 - £160Bupa's NCD could provide savings if they have existing PMI without claims.
55-year-old, non-smoker in London£90 - £130£100 - £140London premiums are higher. WPA's freedom of choice may be a key factor here.

Estimates are for a mid-tier policy with £500 out-patient cover and a £250 excess, as of late 2024.

The best way to find the most cost-effective policy for your specific needs is to use a whole-of-market broker. WeCovr compares plans from WPA, Bupa, and all other leading UK insurers at no cost to you, ensuring you get the right cover at the best possible price.

Core Policy Features and Optional Extras

Beyond specialist access and claims, the core benefits of a policy are crucial. Both WPA and Bupa offer comprehensive cover, but with slight differences in how they package it.

In-patient and Day-patient Cover: This is the foundation of any PMI policy, covering costs for surgery and treatment when you are admitted to a hospital bed (even for just a day). Both WPA and Bupa typically offer full cover for this as standard.

Out-patient Cover: This covers consultations and diagnostics that don't require a hospital stay. This is usually the most customisable part of a policy.

  • WPA: Often offers set monetary limits (e.g., £500, £1,000, or £1,500 per year).
  • Bupa: Also offers monetary limits but sometimes structures it around the number of consultations.

Cancer Care: This is a cornerstone of modern PMI.

  • WPA: Provides extensive cancer cover, including access to new and licensed drugs that may not yet be available on the NHS. Their focus is on supporting you through the entire treatment journey.
  • Bupa: Their 'Cancer Promise' ensures that if you are diagnosed with cancer while a member, they will cover all your eligible treatment costs as long as you have a Bupa policy. They also provide extensive support through specialist oncology nurses.

Mental Health Cover: Mental health is an increasingly important part of PMI.

  • WPA: Offers strong mental health pathways, often including cover for talking therapies and psychiatric treatment as standard or as a simple add-on.
  • Bupa: Has invested heavily in mental health. They provide direct access to mental health support lines and cover a range of conditions and therapies, often with no annual limit on their comprehensive plans.
Optional ExtraWPABupa
Therapies CoverOften includes a set number of sessions for physiotherapy, osteopathy, etc.Can be added as a bolt-on, with different levels of cover available.
Dental & OpticalAvailable as a separate cash plan or add-on.Can be added to the policy for routine and major dental/optical work.
Travel InsuranceCan be added as a comprehensive worldwide travel add-on.Often available as an optional benefit.

Wellness Programmes and Digital Health Tools

Modern private health cover is about more than just treating illness; it's about promoting a healthy lifestyle.

  • WPA's Health and Wellbeing Hub: WPA provides policyholders with access to a 24/7 remote GP service, a dedicated health information line, and an online portal filled with resources to support physical and mental health. Their 'WPA Health' app allows you to manage your policy and submit claims on the go.

  • Bupa's Digital Ecosystem: Bupa is a leader in digital health. The 'Bupa Touch' app is a central hub for everything: booking GP appointments (via their partnership with Babylon), starting a claim, and accessing the Anytime HealthLine. They also provide a wealth of online content, webinars, and tools to help members manage their wellbeing.

As a WeCovr customer, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to further support your health goals. Plus, purchasing a health or life insurance policy through us can unlock discounts on other types of cover you might need.

The Verdict: Which Provider is Right for You?

So, WPA or Bupa? There is no single "best" provider—only the best provider for you.

Choose WPA if:

  • You prioritise exceptional, personal customer service.
  • You want the freedom to choose your own specialist and hospital, without being tied to a network.
  • You are attracted to the ethos of a not-for-profit organisation.
  • You like the idea of a co-payment "Shared Responsibility" option to reduce your premiums.

Choose Bupa if:

  • You value the trust and security of a large, established brand.
  • You prefer a streamlined, digitally-led experience for managing your health.
  • You are happy with a guided choice of specialists from a pre-approved network.
  • You want access to a comprehensive, integrated range of health services beyond just insurance.

Making this decision alone can be daunting. The UK private medical insurance market is nuanced, and the wrong choice can be costly. This is where expert, impartial advice is invaluable.


Does WPA or Bupa cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy begins. Neither WPA nor Bupa will cover pre-existing or chronic conditions on their standard policies. However, some underwriting options, like 'moratorium underwriting', may allow a pre-existing condition to be covered after a set period (usually two years) provided you have remained symptom-free and have not required treatment or advice for it.

Can I choose my own specialist with Bupa and WPA?

Yes, but their approaches differ. WPA's policies are built on the principle of 'Freedom of Choice', meaning you can typically choose any recognised specialist in the UK. With Bupa, you choose from their extensive pre-approved network of specialists. This is known as 'Open Referral', where Bupa provides you with a list of fee-assured consultants to ensure you do not face any financial shortfalls for their fees.

How does a PMI broker like WeCovr help me save money?

An expert broker like WeCovr helps you save money in several ways, at no cost to you. First, we compare the entire market, including providers like WPA, Bupa, AXA, and Vitality, to find the most competitive price for the cover you need. Second, our FCA-authorised advisors help you tailor your policy, ensuring you don't pay for benefits you won't use. Finally, we have access to different deals and can provide expert advice on options like excesses or co-payments to make your premium more affordable.

Ready to find the perfect health insurance plan?

Don't navigate the complexities of WPA, Bupa, and other insurers alone. Let our friendly experts at WeCovr do the hard work for you. We provide free, impartial advice and personalised quotes to find a policy that fits your needs and budget.

Get your free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and take the first step towards peace of mind.


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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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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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