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WPA vs The Exeter Which Is Best for Families in 2026

WPA vs The Exeter Which Is Best for Families in 2026 2026

TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised expert with a history of helping over 900,000 UK individuals and families with their insurance needs, WeCovr understands the importance of protecting your loved ones. This article dives deep into two leading specialist providers of private medical insurance, WPA and The Exeter, to help you make an informed choice for your family's health in 2026. WeCovr compares two specialist insurers for family health insurance Choosing the right private medical insurance (PMI) for your family is one of the most significant decisions you can make.

Key takeaways

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and often has no known cure. It can be managed but not cured. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure.
  • Underwriting: This is how an insurer assesses your medical history to decide what they will and won't cover. The two main types are:
  • Moratorium (Mori): You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the past five years. They may cover it later if you remain symptom-free for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer then tells you precisely what is and isn't covered from the outset. This provides clarity but may result in permanent exclusions for past conditions.

As an FCA-authorised expert with a history of helping over 900,000 UK individuals and families with their insurance needs, WeCovr understands the importance of protecting your loved ones. This article dives deep into two leading specialist providers of private medical insurance, WPA and The Exeter, to help you make an informed choice for your family's health in 2026.

WeCovr compares two specialist insurers for family health insurance

Choosing the right private medical insurance (PMI) for your family is one of the most significant decisions you can make. In a UK healthcare landscape where NHS waiting times for certain procedures remain a concern, PMI offers peace of mind, faster access to treatment, and more choice over your family's care.

While many people are familiar with household names like Bupa and Aviva, the UK PMI market is also home to specialist insurers who offer a unique approach. Two of the most respected are WPA (Western Provident Association) and The Exeter. Both are member-focused, not-for-profit organisations with a long history of putting their policyholders first.

But which one is the better fit for your family's specific needs and budget in 2026? In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down their policies, pricing, and philosophies to help you decide.

First, A Quick Refresher: What is Private Medical Insurance?

Before we compare the providers, it's vital to understand the fundamentals of private health cover in the UK.

PMI is an insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and often has no known cure. It can be managed but not cured. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure.

Crucial Point: Standard UK private medical insurance, including policies from WPA and The Exeter, does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions. Its purpose is to provide prompt care for new, eligible medical issues that arise after your policy begins.

Key Terms You'll Encounter

  • Underwriting: This is how an insurer assesses your medical history to decide what they will and won't cover. The two main types are:
    1. Moratorium (Mori): You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the past five years. They may cover it later if you remain symptom-free for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts.
    2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer then tells you precisely what is and isn't covered from the outset. This provides clarity but may result in permanent exclusions for past conditions.
  • Excess: The amount you agree to pay towards a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and a claim for £2,000 is approved, you pay the first £250, and the insurer pays the remaining £1,750. A higher excess typically means a lower monthly premium.
  • Outpatient Cover: This covers consultations, diagnostic tests (like MRI scans), and therapies that don't require a hospital bed. This is often an optional add-on or has set limits.
  • Hospital List: A list of hospitals where your policy will cover treatment. These are usually tiered, with more comprehensive (and expensive) lists including prime central London hospitals.

Meet the Insurers: WPA and The Exeter

Unlike many large insurers who are publicly traded companies answering to shareholders, WPA and The Exeter have a different structure, which shapes their entire approach.

Who are WPA (Western Provident Association)?

Founded in 1901, WPA is a provident association, meaning it operates on a not-for-profit basis. Any surplus is reinvested back into the organisation to benefit members, rather than being paid out as dividends.

Key Characteristics of WPA:

  • Flexibility: Their "Flexible Health" policy is highly customisable, allowing you to build a plan that truly suits your family's needs.
  • Shared Responsibility: A unique co-payment model where you pay 25% of each claim, up to a chosen annual limit. This can significantly reduce premiums.
  • Advanced Cancer Care: WPA has a strong reputation for providing access to the latest cancer drugs and treatments, even if they aren't yet approved by the NHS or NICE.
  • Technology Focus: They were one of the first insurers to offer benefit-driven apps and pride themselves on innovation.

Who are The Exeter?

The Exeter is a Friendly Society, another type of mutual organisation owned by its members. Established in 1927, they have a deep-rooted focus on community and long-term member value.

Key Characteristics of The Exeter:

  • Simplicity: Their "Health+" policy is designed to be straightforward and easy to understand.
  • Community Rating: For members who join under a certain age and remain with The Exeter, renewal premiums are based on the age they joined, not their current age. This can offer exceptional long-term value and predictability.
  • Member Benefits: Strong emphasis on added value, particularly through their HealthWise app, which provides remote GP consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health support.
  • Expertise: A strong track record in both health insurance and income protection, giving them a holistic view of member wellbeing.

WPA vs The Exeter: A Head-to-Head Comparison for Families

Let's put their flagship family policies side-by-side. The table below compares WPA's "Flexible Health" policy with The Exeter's "Health+" policy on the features that matter most to families.

FeatureWPA (Flexible Health)The Exeter (Health+)WeCovr's Verdict for Families
Core CoverFull cover for inpatient and day-patient treatment, including surgery, hospital charges, and specialist fees.Full cover for inpatient and day-patient treatment, including surgery, hospital charges, and specialist fees.Tie. Both provide excellent, comprehensive core hospital cover as standard.
Outpatient CoverHighly flexible. Choose a cash benefit from £0 to £1,500+ to spend on diagnostics, consultations, and therapies.Choose between a standard limit (e.g., £1,000) or an enhanced, unlimited option.WPA offers more granular control for budget-conscious families. The Exeter is simpler to understand with its set limits.
Cancer CoverExcellent and a key strength. Covers advanced therapies and drugs not always available on the NHS. Includes palliative care and NHS cash benefits.Comprehensive cancer cover is included as standard. Includes palliative care, end-of-life nursing and an NHS cash benefit.WPA slightly edges it for its proactive approach to funding new and experimental treatments. However, both offer fantastic cancer care.
Mental HealthOptional add-on. Offers up to £1,500 for outpatient therapies and up to 28 days of inpatient care.Covered as standard. Includes unlimited remote psychological support via HealthWise, and inpatient cover is linked to core policy limits.The Exeter wins for including mental health support as standard and offering it digitally via their HealthWise app, which is incredibly useful for modern families.
Therapies CoverCovered under the flexible outpatient cash benefit. You decide how to allocate your pot of money.Included as standard. Unlimited remote physiotherapy assessments via HealthWise. Face-to-face sessions covered under outpatient limits.The Exeter is strong here due to the unlimited remote physio access via its app, perfect for sports-loving families. WPA's model gives more choice if you prefer a specific therapist.
Pricing ModelStandard age-based pricing, but with a unique "Shared Responsibility" co-payment option that can lower premiums by making you a partner in the cost of care.Community-rated at renewal for members who join before age 65. Your premium increases are not based on your advancing age, just medical inflation and claims.The Exeter offers outstanding long-term value for families who plan to keep their policy for many years. WPA is great for lowering initial costs.
Excess OptionsStandard excess (£150-£1,000) AND/OR Shared Responsibility (pay 25% of claims up to a cap of £1,000-£5,000).Standard excess options from £0 to £5,000. Straightforward and easy to understand.WPA's Shared Responsibility is a game-changer for those comfortable with co-payment. The Exeter is simpler for families who prefer a predictable, fixed excess.
Child-SpecificsParent accommodation included. Cover for children up to age 25 if in full-time education.Parent accommodation included. Cover for children up to age 25 if in full-time education.Tie. Both insurers are very family-friendly in their core policy wording.
Digital GPWPA Health app provides access to a 24/7 remote GP service.The HealthWise app provides 24/7 remote GP consultations.Tie. Both offer excellent, on-demand GP access, a crucial benefit for parents with sick children.

Deep Dive: The Unique Features That Could Sway Your Decision

The table gives a great overview, but the devil is in the detail. Let's explore the standout features that truly differentiate WPA and The Exeter.

The Cost Factor: WPA's 'Shared Responsibility' vs The Exeter's 'Community Rating'

This is perhaps the biggest philosophical difference between the two.

WPA's Shared Responsibility

Instead of, or in addition to, a standard excess, WPA offers a co-payment model. You agree to pay 25% of the cost of every eligible claim during your policy year, up to a pre-agreed cap.

Example:

  • You choose a Shared Responsibility cap of £1,000 for the year.
  • Your son needs an MRI scan costing £800. You pay 25% (£200), and WPA pays £600.
  • Later that year, you need physiotherapy costing £400. You pay 25% (£100), and WPA pays £300.
  • You have now paid a total of £300 towards your £1,000 cap. For any further claims that year, you would continue to pay 25% until you hit the £1,000 limit. After that, WPA pays 100% of all eligible claims for the rest of the policy year.

Who is this good for? Families who are generally healthy and want a lower monthly premium. It encourages you to be mindful of treatment costs, as you are a "partner" in the expense.

The Exeter's Community Rating

This is a powerful feature for long-term policyholders. For members who join The Exeter before they turn 65 and stay on the Health+ policy, their renewal premium is not impacted by their age.

Normally, PMI premiums rise each year simply because you are a year older and statistically more likely to claim. With The Exeter's community rating, your renewal price is based on the "community" of members who joined at the same age as you. Your premiums will still increase due to medical inflation (the rising cost of healthcare) and your claims history, but the significant "ageing" factor is removed.

Who is this good for? Young families who see private health cover as a long-term investment. The savings over decades can be substantial compared to standard age-banded pricing.

Mental Health Support for Modern Families

With growing awareness of mental health challenges in both adults and children, this is a non-negotiable for many families.

  • The Exeter's approach is particularly strong for accessibility. Including mental health support as standard and integrating it into their HealthWise app is a huge plus. A teenager struggling with exam stress or a new parent feeling overwhelmed can access professional support discreetly from their phone, often without needing a GP referral.

  • WPA's approach offers solid, traditional cover as an optional add-on. While not as digitally integrated, the cover itself is robust, providing a set number of therapy sessions and inpatient days if needed.

Digital Health and Value-Added Benefits

Both insurers understand that a modern health policy is more than just paying for hospital stays. It's about proactive wellbeing.

BenefitWPA Health AppThe Exeter's HealthWise App
Remote GP✅ 24/7 service✅ 24/7 service
Remote Physio❌ (Covered via outpatient benefit)✅ (Unlimited remote assessments)
Mental Health Support❌ (Phone support line available)✅ (Up to 6 sessions per condition per year)
Second Opinion Service✅✅
Diet & Nutrition❌✅ (Consultations available)

WeCovr's Analysis: The Exeter's HealthWise app is arguably one of the best integrated digital health platforms in the UK PMI market. For a family, having a single app for GP access, physio triage, and mental health support is incredibly convenient and adds tangible day-to-day value to the policy.

Real-Life Family Scenarios: Which Policy Works Best?

Let's apply this knowledge to two common family profiles.

Scenario 1: The Young Family with Toddlers

  • The Family: Mark (34), Sarah (32), with children aged 2 and 4.
  • Priorities: Low monthly cost, quick access to a GP for frequent childhood illnesses, and peace of mind for potential minor surgeries (like grommets or tonsillectomies). They plan to keep the cover long-term.
  • The Exeter might be the better choice here. The Community Rating is a massive draw for a young couple, promising more stable premiums in the future. The HealthWise app is perfect for worried parents needing a quick GP video call at 10 pm when their toddler has a fever. The policy's simplicity is also a plus for busy parents who don't want to micromanage a flexible benefits pot.

Scenario 2: The Family with Active Teenagers

  • The Family: David (45), Laura (43), with children aged 14 and 16.
  • Priorities: Excellent cover for sports injuries (physiotherapy), access to top specialists if needed, and robust mental health support for teenage pressures. They are financially comfortable but savvy about value.
  • WPA could be an excellent fit. The Shared Responsibility model could work well. A few sets of physio sessions for a sprained ankle would involve a 25% co-pay, but this is manageable and keeps the core premium down. Their key priority might be WPA's renowned cancer cover and access to advanced treatments, offering ultimate peace of mind as they get older. The flexibility to choose any consultant or therapist (within their fee guidelines) is also a significant advantage.

The WeCovr Advantage: Added Value for Your Family

When you arrange your family's private medical insurance through WeCovr, you get more than just expert, impartial advice. We provide our PMI and Life Insurance clients with exclusive benefits at no extra cost:

  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: All clients receive free access to our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. It's a fantastic tool to help the whole family build and maintain healthy eating habits.
  • Discounts on Other Cover: Protecting your family is our priority. As a WeCovr client, you'll be eligible for discounts on other essential policies, such as life insurance or income protection.
  • Exceptional Service: We pride ourselves on our high customer satisfaction ratings. Our job is to make the complex world of insurance simple for you.

Our Verdict: WPA or The Exeter for Your Family in 2026?

So, which specialist insurer wins? The truth is, there is no single "best" provider. The right choice depends entirely on your family's priorities, budget, and long-term view.

You should lean towards WPA if:

  • Flexibility and control are your top priorities.
  • You are comfortable with a co-payment model (Shared Responsibility) to achieve lower premiums.
  • You want the reassurance of their market-leading approach to funding advanced cancer treatments.
  • You want the freedom to create a truly bespoke policy.

You should lean towards The Exeter if:

  • Long-term price stability is a major concern, making their Community Rating highly attractive.
  • You value simplicity and an all-in-one policy structure.
  • Your family would make heavy use of an integrated digital health app for GP, physio, and mental health support.
  • You prefer a straightforward, predictable excess system.

The best way to find the perfect fit is to compare personalised quotes. An independent PMI broker like WeCovr can provide quotes from both WPA and The Exeter, as well as the wider market, ensuring you get the most suitable cover at the best possible price. Our expert advice is free, and we handle all the paperwork for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Family Health Insurance

What is the difference between an 'acute' and a 'chronic' condition for my insurance?

An 'acute' condition is a disease or injury that is expected to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery, like a broken bone or a hernia. Private medical insurance is designed to cover these. A 'chronic' condition is a long-term illness that can be managed but not cured, such as diabetes, asthma, or Crohn's disease. UK private health insurance does not typically cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions.

Will my family's private medical insurance premium go up every year?

Generally, yes. Premiums typically increase each year for three main reasons: 1) Your age – as you get older, the statistical risk of needing treatment increases. 2) Medical inflation – the cost of new drugs, technology, and hospital services rises faster than general inflation. 3) Your claims history – if you make a claim, you may see a reduction in your No Claims Discount. Insurers like The Exeter mitigate the age factor with their community rating, but increases for inflation are standard across the industry.

Is it cheaper to buy PMI direct from WPA or The Exeter, or through a broker like WeCovr?

Using an independent broker like WeCovr costs you nothing. The price of the policy is the same, and sometimes brokers have access to preferential rates or deals that aren't available to the public. The key benefit is that a broker works for you, not the insurer. We provide impartial advice, compare policies from a wide range of providers (not just WPA and The Exeter), and help you find the cover that is genuinely best for your family's unique circumstances.

Get Your Personalised Family Health Insurance Quote

Ready to find the right private health cover for your family? The experts at WeCovr are here to help. We'll compare WPA, The Exeter, and other leading UK insurers to find a policy that fits your needs and budget. Our advice is independent, our service is highly rated, and our help is completely free.

Get your free, no-obligation family PMI quote today and give your family the gift of peace of mind.

Get Quote

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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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