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Wpa vs the Exeter Which Is Best for Families

Before diving into policy details, its helpful to understand the philosophy behind each insurer. Their history and ethos shape the products they offer and the service you receive.

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Mar 27, 2026

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TL;DR

Before diving into policy details, its helpful to understand the philosophy behind each insurer. Their history and ethos shape the products they offer and the service you receive.

Key takeaways

  • Shared Responsibility: WPA can offer a co-payment option where you pay 25% of eligible claims up to a chosen annual cap, which can help lower premiums.
  • Core Out-patient Cover: WPA Complete Health includes specialist consultations up to £250 per year as standard, with full cover for MRI, CT, and PET scans.
  • Remote GP Services: Like most top insurers, WPA provides access to a 24/7 remote GP service. For a parent with a sick child in the middle of the night, being able to speak to a doctor within minutes is an invaluable benefit.
  • Optional Dental and Optical Cash Benefits: WPA is famous for its cash plans. You can add a dental and optical benefit to your family policy. This provides money back towards routine costs like dental check-ups, hygienist visits, new glasses, and contact lenses expenses that every family faces.
  • Free Cover for Children: WPA often has offers that allow you to add younger children to a policy for free, which can represent a significant saving.

Choosing the right private medical insurance for your family is one of the most important financial decisions you can make. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies across the UK, we understand the peace of mind that comes with knowing your loved ones can access fast, high-quality medical care when they need it most.

WeCovr compares two specialist insurers for family health insurance

When it comes to private health cover, many people immediately think of the big, household names. However, the UK market is home to several specialist insurers who offer exceptional value, innovative features, and a more personal touch. Two of the most respected are WPA and The Exeter.

Both are member-focused organisations with long histories, setting them apart from shareholder-driven corporations. But their approaches to family health insurance are quite different. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about WPA vs The Exeter, helping you decide which might be the best fit for your family's unique needs.

Who are WPA and The Exeter? A Brief Overview

Before diving into policy details, it’s helpful to understand the philosophy behind each insurer. Their history and ethos shape the products they offer and the service you receive.

WPA (Western Provident Association)

Founded in 1901, WPA is a not-for-profit provident association based in Taunton, Somerset. This means they don't have shareholders; any surplus is reinvested into the business to benefit members through better products and services.

  • Ethos: WPA's core philosophy is built on transparency and customer empowerment. They are known for pioneering innovative features, such as cash benefit plans and a unique co-payment model designed to keep premiums affordable.
  • Market Position: WPA is a highly-regarded specialist insurer, particularly popular with families and self-employed individuals. They consistently receive praise for their UK-based customer service and flexible policy options.

The Exeter

The Exeter is a Friendly Society, with roots tracing back to 1888. Based in the historic city of Exeter, their entire structure is designed around their members. Like WPA, they have no shareholders to answer to.

  • Ethos: The Exeter prides itself on being straightforward and dependable. Their goal is to provide clear, easy-to-understand insurance products that deliver real value when members need to make a claim.
  • Market Position: As a specialist in health and protection insurance, The Exeter has carved out a strong reputation for its comprehensive cover and excellent member support services, including their popular Healthwise app.

The Crucial Rule of Private Medical Insurance: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Before we compare policies, it's vital to understand a fundamental principle of all standard private medical insurance in the UK. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy has started.

  • An Acute Condition is 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, hernia repairs, or treatment for an infection.
  • A Chronic Condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. The routine management, monitoring, and medication for chronic conditions are not covered by private medical insurance. This care remains with the NHS.
  • Pre-existing Conditions are any health issues you had before taking out your policy. These are also typically excluded from cover, either permanently or for a set period.

Think of PMI as your 'get you better' plan for new, treatable health problems, providing fast access to specialists and private hospitals. The NHS remains your partner for ongoing, long-term care.

Core Cover Comparison: What Do WPA and The Exeter Offer Families?

The foundation of any health insurance policy is its core cover. This typically includes the most expensive types of treatment, such as hospital stays and cancer care. Let's see how WPA's current Complete Health proposition and The Exeter's 'Health+' policy stack up.

FeatureWPA (Complete Health)The Exeter (Health+)WeCovr's Expert Take
In-patient & Day-patient CareFull cover as standard. This includes hospital fees, specialist fees, and anaesthetist fees for surgery or procedures requiring a hospital bed.Full cover as standard. Provides comprehensive cover for eligible treatment when you are admitted to a hospital.Both insurers provide robust in-patient cover, which is the cornerstone of any PMI policy. There are few differences here.
Cancer CoverAvailable as an optional Cancer Care benefit under Complete Health, covering diagnosis and eligible treatment from diagnosis onwards according to the selected cover.Comprehensive cancer cover is a core component. Includes advanced treatments, palliative care, and end-of-life care.The Exeter includes broad cancer cover as standard. WPA can be tailored with Cancer Care if you want that level of support built in.
Hospital ListsOffers hospital access options, with Premium Hospitals available as an optional extra if you want certain central London facilities included.Uses a traditional tiered hospital list (e.g., Essential, Standard, Extended). Choosing a more restricted list (excluding central London hospitals) lowers your premium.Both let you trade breadth of hospital access against price, but WPA's Premium Hospitals option is a more specific add-on route.
Out-patient CoverIncludes specialist consultations up to £250 a year as standard, full MRI/CT/PET cover, and optional upgrades for more consultations, diagnostics, and therapies.Offered as an optional extra. A key feature is the option for unlimited out-patient diagnostics (MRI, CT, PET scans), with limits on the number of consultations.The Exeter still stands out for unlimited diagnostics on some options, while WPA's core diagnostics cover is stronger than many people expect.
Mental Health CoverStructured counselling support is available via the helpline, with a fuller Mental Health Treatment option available as an extra.Out-patient mental health support is provided through their Healthwise app. More extensive in-patient and out-patient cover is available as an optional add-on.The Exeter is stronger digitally as standard. WPA can be built up if mental health treatment cover matters to your family.
Policy ExcessExcess options include £0, £100, £250, and £500, with Shared Responsibility available as an alternative cost-control option.A wide range of excess options, typically from £0 to £1,000. A higher excess significantly reduces your monthly premium.Both give families practical ways to lower premiums, but WPA's Shared Responsibility adds a different way to manage cost.

Family-Specific Benefits and Features: The Details That Matter

While core cover is essential, it's often the family-focused features that make a policy stand out. Here’s where the different philosophies of WPA and The Exeter become clear.

How WPA Caters to Families

WPA’s approach is built on flexibility and shared costs, which can be very appealing for budget-conscious families.

  1. Shared Responsibility: WPA can offer a co-payment option where you pay 25% of each eligible claim up to a chosen annual cap. This can help reduce premiums, but it sits alongside the standard benefit structure rather than replacing core cover.

    • Real-Life Example: Your child needs to see a paediatric consultant and have a scan. WPA's core policy can already include up to £250 a year for specialist consultations and full MRI, CT, and PET cover. If you have chosen Shared Responsibility as your cost-control option, you would contribute towards eligible claims until you reach your annual cap.

  2. Remote GP Services: Like most top insurers, WPA provides access to a 24/7 remote GP service. For a parent with a sick child in the middle of the night, being able to speak to a doctor within minutes is an invaluable benefit.

  3. Optional Dental and Optical Cash Benefits: WPA is famous for its cash plans. You can add a dental and optical benefit to your family policy. This provides money back towards routine costs like dental check-ups, hygienist visits, new glasses, and contact lenses – expenses that every family faces.

  4. Free Cover for Children: WPA often has offers that allow you to add younger children to a policy for free, which can represent a significant saving.

How The Exeter Supports Families

The Exeter focuses on simplicity and providing comprehensive support through its member benefits.

  1. Unlimited Out-patient Diagnostics: This is a standout feature. If you choose their out-patient option, while consultations may have a limit, the associated diagnostic tests (like MRI and CT scans) are often unlimited. With NHS waiting times for some diagnostic tests stretching for months—the median wait for 15 key tests was 8.1 weeks in March 2024 according to NHS England—this benefit provides families with rapid diagnosis and immense peace of mind.

  2. The Healthwise App: This is a cornerstone of The Exeter's member experience and is included with every policy. For families, it's a treasure trove of support:

    • Remote GP: On-demand GP appointments for any member of the family.
    • Second Medical Opinion: If a family member receives a worrying diagnosis, you can get a second opinion from a world-leading expert.
    • Mental Health Support: Access to qualified therapists for talking therapies without needing a GP referral.
    • Physiotherapy: Quick access to physiotherapy assessments and sessions.

  3. Straightforward Pricing: The Exeter's structure is very traditional. You choose your cover level and hospital list, and your price is fixed (barring annual renewal increases). There are no co-payment surprises, which many families prefer for easy budgeting.

Understanding the Underwriting: How Your Family's Health History is Assessed

When you apply for private health cover, the insurer needs to know about your medical history. This process is called underwriting.

  1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the most popular option for families as it's quick and simple. You don't need to fill out a long medical questionnaire. The insurer automatically excludes treatment for any medical conditions you've sought advice or treatment for in the 5 years before your policy started. However, if you then go for 2 continuous years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.

  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With FMU, you complete a detailed health declaration for every family member. The insurer assesses this and provides a policy document that explicitly lists any conditions that are permanently excluded from cover. This takes longer, but it gives you absolute certainty from day one about what is and isn't covered.

A PMI broker like WeCovr can provide invaluable advice on which underwriting option is best for your family's circumstances.

Cost Comparison: What Can a Family Expect to Pay?

The cost of private medical insurance varies significantly based on age, location, cover level, and the excess you choose. The following table provides an illustrative example only to give you a general idea.

Scenario: A non-smoking family of four. Parents are aged 40 and 38, with two children aged 9 and 6. They live in a mid-cost region like Bristol and choose a £250 excess.

ProviderPolicy TypeIndicative Monthly PremiumKey Features Included in this Example
WPAComplete Health£160 - £210Full in-patient cover, core consultations up to £250, full MRI/CT/PET cover, and optional Cancer Care or Shared Responsibility depending on the chosen build.
The ExeterHealth+ (Mid-Tier)£175 - £225Full in-patient cover, full cancer cover, unlimited out-patient diagnostics, standard hospital list, Healthwise app.

Key Factors Influencing Your Premium:

  • Age: Premiums are based on the age of the oldest adult on the policy and rise as you get older.
  • Location: Living near hospitals with higher private treatment costs (especially Central London) will increase your premium.
  • Cover Level: Adding comprehensive out-patient cover, therapies, or dental options will increase the price.
  • Excess (illustrative): Choosing a higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000) is one of the most effective ways to lower your monthly premium.
  • No Claims Discount (NCD): WPA uses a 16-level No Claims Discount system, and most other insurers also use NCD structures to reward claim-free years.

WeCovr's Added Value: More Than Just a Comparison

Choosing between two excellent insurers can be challenging. This is where working with an expert, independent broker like WeCovr makes all the difference. We provide impartial advice to help you find the perfect fit, at no extra cost to you.

But our support doesn't stop there. When you take out a family health insurance policy through WeCovr, you unlock exclusive benefits:

  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: Good health starts with good habits. We provide our customers with free access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered nutrition and calorie tracking app. It's a fantastic tool to help your family learn about balanced diets and build healthy eating habits together.
  • Discounts on Other Insurance: We believe in holistic protection. Our PMI clients are eligible for discounts on other essential cover, such as life insurance, income protection, and critical illness cover, helping you protect your family's finances from all angles.
  • Unbiased, Expert Advice: Our team lives and breathes the private medical insurance UK market. We'll take the time to understand your family's priorities and budget, comparing not just WPA and The Exeter, but all leading providers to ensure you get the best possible cover for your money. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to clear, honest guidance.

Beyond Insurance: Wellness Tips for a Healthy Family

While insurance provides a safety net, fostering a healthy lifestyle is the best long-term investment in your family's wellbeing.

  • Eat the Rainbow: Use the NHS Eatwell Guide as a fun family project. Aim for at least five portions of varied fruit and veg a day. Involving kids in cooking and using an app like CalorieHero can make nutrition education engaging.
  • Move Together: The NHS recommends that children aged 5 to 18 do at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day. This doesn't have to be structured sport. Family bike rides, long walks in a local park or woods, or even a kitchen disco are great ways to stay active together.
  • Prioritise Sleep: According to the ONS, almost a quarter of UK adults report sleep problems. A consistent bedtime routine, limiting screen time before bed, and ensuring bedrooms are dark and quiet benefits everyone from toddlers to parents.
  • Talk Openly: Create an environment where children feel safe to talk about their feelings. The NHS's Every Mind Matters platform has fantastic resources for supporting the mental wellbeing of young people.

Our Verdict: Is WPA or The Exeter the Best Choice for Your Family?

There is no single "best" provider; the right choice depends entirely on your family's priorities and financial comfort zone.

You might prefer WPA if:

  • You want the lowest possible monthly premium and are comfortable with a co-payment system (Shared Responsibility) for out-patient care.
  • You value the freedom to choose from a very wide range of consultants and hospitals.
  • You want to add a comprehensive dental and optical cash benefit to your policy.

You might prefer The Exeter if:

  • You prioritise budget certainty and want a straightforward policy with no co-payment surprises.
  • The peace of mind that comes with unlimited out-patient diagnostics is a top priority for you.
  • You would make good use of the comprehensive support services offered through the Healthwise member app.

Ultimately, the best way to make a confident decision is to see personalised quotes and have an expert talk you through the nuances.

Does family private medical insurance cover pregnancy and childbirth?

Generally, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover routine pregnancy, childbirth, or post-natal care. PMI is designed for unforeseen illness and injury. However, some comprehensive policies may offer cover for specific complications of pregnancy and childbirth. It is essential to check the policy details carefully. The NHS provides excellent maternity care throughout the UK.

Can I add my children to my existing private health cover policy?

Yes, in most cases you can add your children to your policy at any time, whether they are newborns or teenagers. Insurers often have special offers, such as free cover for the first child or for babies up to one year old. Adding a child will increase your premium, but it is almost always cheaper than taking out a separate policy for them.

What is a No Claims Discount on health insurance?

A No Claims Discount (NCD) works similarly to car insurance. For each year you hold the policy without making a claim, you earn a discount on your renewal premium, up to a maximum level (often 60-70%). This is a key way insurers reward members for staying healthy. Making a claim will typically reduce your NCD level, increasing your future premiums. Some insurers offer an option to pay extra to protect your NCD.

Ready to Protect Your Family's Health?

Navigating the world of private health cover can feel complex, but you don't have to do it alone. The friendly, expert team at WeCovr is here to help. We'll compare WPA, The Exeter, and other leading UK insurers to find a policy that fits your family's needs and your budget—all at no cost to you.

Get your free, no-obligation family health insurance quote today and secure the peace of mind you deserve.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.

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.

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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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