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WPA vs The Exeter Best Health Insurance for Small Family Businesses

Choosing between WPA and The Exeter for your family business's private medical insurance in the UK can be complex; WeCovr, an experienced broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, can help you navigate their unique underwriting and group benefits to find a suitable plan.

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

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WPA vs The Exeter Best Health Insurance for Small Family...

TL;DR

Choosing between WPA and The Exeter for your family business's private medical insurance in the UK can be complex; WeCovr, an experienced broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, can help you navigate their unique underwriting and group benefits to find a suitable plan.

Key takeaways

  • WPA's Shared Responsibility model can lower premiums by having employees co-pay a portion of claims.
  • The Exeter is renowned for its flexible underwriting, often considering pre-existing conditions for cover on specific terms.
  • Small family businesses can access group PMI schemes from just two members, offering better value than individual policies.
  • Tax treatment of PMI is a key consideration; premiums are typically a P11D benefit-in-kind for employees.
  • Using an expert broker like WeCovr is crucial to compare the nuanced offerings of specialist insurers like WPA and The Exeter.

Choosing the right private medical insurance (PMI) for your family business is a significant decision. As experienced UK brokers at WeCovr, who have helped arrange over 900,000 policies of various kinds, we understand the unique challenges. You're not just protecting employees; you're protecting your family and the future of your enterprise. Two names that frequently emerge for this specific need are WPA and The Exeter, both offering distinct advantages over mainstream providers.

This guide provides an in-depth comparison, helping you understand which insurer might be a better fit for your family-run business's specific circumstances, budget, and health priorities.

Combining group discounts with tailored underwriting for family-run enterprises

A family business sits in a unique position. You're small enough to need flexibility but operate as a business, giving you access to commercial benefits. This is where small group PMI schemes shine.

Unlike individual policies, a group scheme for as few as two people (e.g., two directors, or a director and their spouse as an employee) can unlock significant advantages:

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Group policies are typically cheaper per person than equivalent individual plans.
  • Better Terms: Insurers often offer more favourable underwriting options for groups, which can be crucial if a family member has a past health issue.
  • Simplified Administration: One policy covers everyone, making management and renewal far simpler.

The challenge lies in finding an insurer that understands this hybrid need. You want the value of a group scheme but the underwriting care of an individual policy. This is precisely the niche where specialist insurers like WPA and The Exeter excel.

What is a Small Business Group PMI Scheme?

A small business group Private Medical Insurance (PMI) scheme is a single health insurance policy that covers a group of employees, rather than just one individual. In the UK, many insurers offer these schemes for businesses with just two or more employees.

For a family business, this is a game-changer. The "group" could be:

  • A husband and wife who are both company directors.
  • A parent and their adult child working in the business.
  • A small team of three or four, including family and non-family staff.

The core purpose of PMI remains the same: to cover the costs of diagnosis and treatment for acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. An acute condition is one that is curable with treatment, such as cataracts or a joint replacement.

Crucially, standard UK private health cover does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions. A chronic condition is one that cannot be cured but can be managed, like diabetes or asthma. The NHS remains the primary provider for managing these long-term illnesses.

Introducing the Contenders: WPA and The Exeter

While many large insurers dominate the PMI market, WPA and The Exeter have carved out strong reputations by focusing on specific customer needs.

  • Western Provident Association (WPA): A not-for-profit provident association founded in 1901. WPA is known for its innovative policy structures, particularly its "Shared Responsibility" model, which can lead to lower premiums. They are highly regarded for their customer service and ethical approach.

  • The Exeter: A friendly society with roots going back to 1927. The Exeter's key strength lies in its underwriting flexibility. They are often more willing than other insurers to consider applicants with complex medical histories and, in some cases, offer cover for pre-existing conditions on specific terms.

Both are specialists, meaning their offerings are more nuanced than a one-size-fits-all product. Let's explore them in detail.

Deep Dive: WPA's Proposition for Family Businesses

WPA's approach is built on partnership and transparency. Their products for businesses are designed to be flexible and controllable, which is highly appealing for a small enterprise managing its costs carefully.

Key Feature: Shared Responsibility & Flexible Excesses

This is WPA's most distinctive feature. Instead of a traditional fixed excess (£250, £500, etc.), Shared Responsibility involves the policyholder co-paying a percentage of each claim, typically 25%.

How it works in practice:

  • Scenario: Your policy has a 25% Shared Responsibility element with an annual cap of £1,000.
  • Claim 1: You have a consultation and scans costing £800.
    • You pay 25% of the bill: £200.
    • WPA pays the remaining 75%: £600.
  • Claim 2: Later in the year, you need surgery costing £5,000.
    • You are liable for 25% of the bill (£1,250), but your annual co-payment is capped at £1,000.
    • Since you've already paid £200, you only pay the remaining £800 of your cap.
    • WPA pays the rest: £4,200.

For any further claims in that policy year, WPA would pay 100% as you have met your maximum co-payment. This model encourages members to be mindful of costs and, in return, significantly lowers the upfront premium.

Underwriting and Policy Options

WPA's main SME policy, Enterprise Flexible Benefits, allows you to build a plan that suits your needs. You can select from different levels of cover for things like outpatient consultations, therapies, and cancer care.

Their underwriting options include:

  1. Moratorium (Mori): The most common option. It excludes treatment for any condition you've had symptoms of or sought advice for in the 5 years before joining. However, if you go 2 full years on the policy without any symptoms, advice, or treatment for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You declare your medical history upfront. WPA's underwriters assess it and state clearly from day one what is and isn't covered. This provides certainty.
  3. Medical History Disregarded (MHD): This is the most comprehensive option, covering eligible acute conditions regardless of previous medical history. It is typically reserved for larger groups (20+ employees), but can sometimes be negotiated for smaller groups under specific circumstances, often through an expert broker.

WPA for Family Businesses: A Summary

ProsCons
✅ Lower premiums via Shared Responsibility model❌ Co-payment model can mean unpredictable out-of-pocket costs per claim
✅ Not-for-profit ethos often translates to excellent customer service❌ May be less flexible on covering pre-existing conditions than The Exeter
✅ Highly flexible policy options to control costs❌ Shared Responsibility concept can be more complex to understand than a fixed excess
✅ Strong cancer cover and access to leading specialists and hospitals❌ Less likely to offer Medical History Disregarded underwriting on very small groups

Deep Dive: The Exeter's Approach for Family Enterprises

The Exeter's brand promise is built around being approachable, human, and, above all, flexible. As a friendly society, they are owned by their members, not shareholders, which influences their member-centric approach.

Key Feature: Unmatched Underwriting Flexibility

This is where The Exeter truly stands out. While most of the UK PMI market applies a blanket "no cover for pre-existing conditions" rule, The Exeter's underwriters take a more individualised approach, especially on FMU applications.

What this means for your family business:

Imagine a director has a history of knee problems from a sports injury five years ago.

  • With a Moratorium policy (from any insurer): Any knee-related issue would be automatically excluded for the first two years.
  • With The Exeter's Full Medical Underwriting: You declare the issue. Their underwriters might review the case and decide to:
    • Exclude the specific knee condition.
    • Apply a premium loading (increase the price) to cover the knee.
    • Cover the condition without any special terms if it's deemed low risk.

This ability to get cover for a known past issue can be invaluable, providing peace of mind that a family business owner simply can't get from most other providers.

Health+ Policy and Member Benefits

The Exeter's flagship product for businesses is Health+. It's designed to be straightforward, with clear options for outpatient cover, therapies, and hospital choices.

A key benefit included with all policies is the Healthwise app. This provides:

  • Remote GP Appointments: 24/7 access to a UK-based GP via phone or video call.
  • Second Medical Opinion: If you receive a diagnosis, you can get it reviewed by another specialist.
  • Therapy Services: Access to services like physiotherapy and mental health support, often without needing a GP referral.

This adds immediate, tangible value to the policy, helping employees manage day-to-day health concerns without needing to make a full insurance claim.

The Exeter for Family Enterprises: A Summary

ProsCons
✅ Exceptional underwriting flexibility, may cover some pre-existing conditions❌ Premiums can be higher than WPA's Shared Responsibility model
✅ Simple, easy-to-understand policy structure (Health+)❌ Fewer policy customisation options compared to WPA's modular approach
✅ Excellent member benefits included as standard (Healthwise app)❌ As a smaller player, may have a more restricted hospital list on lower tiers
✅ Friendly society ethos with a strong focus on member support❌ The process for underwriting complex conditions can take longer
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Head-to-Head Comparison: WPA vs The Exeter for Your Family Business

The best way to decide is to see their offerings side-by-side, viewed through the lens of a small family business.

FeatureWPA (Western Provident Association)The ExeterBroker Insight for Family Businesses
Group SizeSchemes available from 2+ employees.Schemes available from 2+ employees.Both are excellent for small family firms. The "group" can be just two directors.
Core ModelNot-for-profit. Focus on cost control via Shared Responsibility (co-payment).Friendly Society. Focus on member support and underwriting flexibility.WPA is a strong fit for cost-conscious businesses with healthy teams. The Exeter is a better fit if a key member has a pre-existing condition you want to try and cover.
UnderwritingMoratorium, Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), and Medical History Disregarded (MHD) for larger groups.Moratorium and a highly flexible FMU process. They are known for considering conditions others won't.The Exeter's FMU is its superpower. It provides certainty and potential cover that is rare in the market.
Cancer CoverComprehensive cover, often with no time or financial limits on eligible treatment (policy dependent).Full cover for cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery.Both providers offer robust cancer care, which is a primary reason many people take out PMI. Check the specific policy terms carefully.
Mental HealthCover is available as an optional add-on, covering psychiatrist and therapist fees.Often includes some initial mental health support via the Healthwise app, with further cover available.The need for mental health support is growing. This is a critical option to consider adding to your group scheme.
Excess/Co-paymentChoice of traditional excess or the unique 25% Shared Responsibility model.Traditional fixed excess per person, per policy year (e.g., £0, £100, £250, £500, £1000).WPA's model lowers the premium but means you pay per claim. The Exeter's is simpler: once you've paid your annual excess, you pay no more for eligible claims.
Digital ToolsSecure online portal for managing policy and claims.Healthwise app is a major benefit, offering remote GP access, second opinions, and more.The Exeter's app provides more day-to-day value, potentially reducing the need for minor claims and NHS GP waits.
Market ReputationHighly trusted, multi-award-winning for customer service and value.Very well-regarded for their personal service, claims handling, and ethical approach.Both have outstanding reputations. Your choice will depend on product features, not trustworthiness.

The Crucial Role of Underwriting for a Family Business

Understanding underwriting is non-negotiable. It determines what is and isn't covered, and getting it wrong can lead to denied claims and immense frustration.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the main types:

  1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the "don't ask, don't tell" option. The policy will not cover treatment for any medical condition for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the five years before your policy starts. However, if you then complete two continuous years on the policy without needing any treatment, advice, or having symptoms of that condition, it may become eligible for cover.

    • Best for: Healthy teams who want a quick and simple setup.
    • Risk: A past condition you've forgotten about could flare up in the first two years and won't be covered.

  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): This is the "full disclosure" option. You complete a detailed health questionnaire for all members. The insurer's medical underwriters review your history and issue policy terms that state precisely what is excluded from cover from day one.

    • Best for: People who want certainty. Especially valuable for anyone with a known medical history, as you know exactly where you stand.
    • Insider Tip: This is where working with a broker like WeCovr is vital. We can discreetly approach an insurer like The Exeter on an anonymous basis to see if a specific condition could be covered before you even apply.

Understanding the Tax Implications of Business Health Insurance

For a limited company, the cost of the PMI premium is generally considered an allowable business expense, meaning you can deduct it from your pre-tax profits.

However, for the employees and directors who receive the benefit, it is treated as a P11D benefit-in-kind. This means HMRC sees it as part of their income, and they will have to pay income tax on the value of the premium. The company will also have to pay Class 1A National Insurance Contributions (currently 13.8%) on the value of the benefit.

Example:

  • A policy for a director costs the company £1,200 for the year.
  • The company can claim this £1,200 as a business expense.
  • The director is a higher-rate taxpayer (40%). They will pay 40% of £1,200 = £480 in extra income tax for the year.
  • The company will pay Class 1A NICs: 13.8% of £1,200 = £165.60.

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

Common Mistakes Small Businesses Make When Choosing PMI

  1. Focusing Only on Price: The cheapest policy is rarely the most suitable. WPA's Shared Responsibility can offer great value, but if your team makes multiple small claims, the co-payments could add up.
  2. Misunderstanding Underwriting: Choosing a moratorium policy to hide a known condition is a false economy. It will likely not be covered when you need it. Honesty via FMU is often the better strategy, especially with an insurer like The Exeter.
  3. Not Checking the Hospital List: Insurers offer different hospital lists to control costs. Ensure the hospitals you would want to use are included in your chosen plan.
  4. Ignoring Mental Health Options: In today's high-stress environment, failing to add mental health cover can be a major gap in your employee wellbeing strategy.
  5. Going Direct to an Insurer: Going direct means you only see one option. An independent, FCA-regulated broker like WeCovr can compare the entire market, including these specialists, at no extra cost to you. We provide expert guidance to help you avoid these pitfalls.

How WeCovr Helps Family Businesses Find the Right Cover

Navigating the nuances of WPA and The Exeter requires specialist knowledge. As an independent brokerage, WeCovr works for you, not the insurer.

Our process is simple and transparent:

  1. Understand Your Needs: We take the time to learn about your family business, your team's health, your budget, and what matters most to you.
  2. Compare the Market: We analyse policies from across the market, including the detailed offerings from WPA, The Exeter, and other leading providers like Aviva, Bupa, and Vitality.
  3. Provide a Clear Recommendation: We present you with a comparison and recommend a policy that is a strong fit for your specific circumstances, explaining the pros and cons of each option in plain English.

By using WeCovr, you gain access to our expertise and market leverage, ensuring you get a suitable policy at a competitive price. Furthermore, our clients receive discounts on other types of business and personal insurance, as well as complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero.

Finding the right health insurance is one of the most important decisions you can make for your family and your business. Let us help you get it right.

Is PMI worth it for a small family business?

Generally, yes. For a relatively small cost, PMI can provide immense value to a family business. It offers fast access to diagnosis and treatment, reducing time off work for key personnel (family members). It's also a highly valued benefit that helps attract and retain talented staff, demonstrating that you care for your team's wellbeing.

Can I cover just the directors and not other employees?

Yes, absolutely. You can create different "groups" within your business. It is common for a company to offer a comprehensive policy for directors or senior management and a different level of cover, or no cover at all, for other staff. A broker can help you structure this in the most cost-effective way.

What is the difference between an acute and a chronic condition?

This is a fundamental principle of UK private medical insurance.
  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., joint replacement, cataract surgery, hernia repair). PMI is designed to cover these.
  • A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured but can be managed with ongoing treatment or monitoring (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure). Management of chronic conditions is not covered by PMI and remains the responsibility of the NHS.

How much does small business health insurance cost?

The cost of a small group PMI policy varies significantly based on several factors: the age of the members, their location, the level of cover chosen (e.g., outpatient limits), the hospital list, and the excess or co-payment model. As a rough guide, prices could range from £40 to over £150 per person per month. The only way to get an accurate figure is to get a tailored quote.

Your Next Step

Both WPA and The Exeter offer compelling propositions for UK family businesses. WPA's Shared Responsibility model is excellent for managing premiums, while The Exeter's underwriting flexibility is unparalleled for those with past medical issues.

The most suitable choice depends entirely on your unique situation. Contact a WeCovr adviser today for a free, no-obligation chat and a detailed market comparison.

Sources

NHS England Office for National Statistics (ONS) Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) gov.uk National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of experienced advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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