WeCovr.

Login

Your Health The Ultimate UK Investment

Your Health The Ultimate UK Investment 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies of various kinds issued, we at WeCovr see daily how crucial health is to financial security. This guide explores how combining proactive wellness with smart private medical insurance in the UK can yield immense lifetime returns, safeguarding both your health and wealth.

Unlock Multi-Million Pound Lifetime Returns: How Proactive Health & Private Medical Insurance Empower Your Vitality, Productivity, and Financial Legacy

We meticulously manage our finances, ISAs, and pensions, seeking the best returns. Yet, we often overlook the single most valuable asset we possess: our health. Think of your health not as a given, but as the primary engine of your wealth creation. It dictates your energy, your focus, your ability to work, and ultimately, your lifetime earning potential.

In the UK today, investing in your health is no longer a luxury; it is a strategic imperative. This comprehensive guide will demonstrate how a two-pronged approach—embracing a proactive, healthy lifestyle and securing it with the right private medical insurance (PMI)—can protect you from the immense costs of poor health and unlock significant returns in productivity, happiness, and financial prosperity.

The Sobering Reality: The True Cost of Poor Health in the UK

The financial fallout from illness extends far beyond the immediate medical costs. For individuals, families, and the UK economy, the impact is staggering. It erodes income, stifles productivity, and can derail long-term financial plans.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), a record 2.8 million people were out of the workforce due to long-term sickness in early 2024. This isn't just a statistic; it represents millions of people unable to earn, contribute, and build their financial futures.

The financial drains of ill health are multifaceted:

  • Lost Income: Extended time off work means relying on Statutory Sick Pay (£116.75 per week as of 2024/25), a fraction of the average UK salary.
  • Reduced Earning Potential: Chronic pain or lingering conditions can prevent you from seeking promotions, taking on more demanding roles, or even force a move to part-time work.
  • Productivity Drain (Presenteeism): Many of us drag ourselves to work while unwell. This phenomenon, "presenteeism," can reduce individual productivity by a third or more. You're physically present, but mentally and emotionally compromised.
  • Carer Costs: When a loved one falls ill, family members often have to reduce their working hours or leave their jobs entirely to provide care, creating a second wave of financial impact.
  • Mental Health Toll: The stress and anxiety of waiting for a diagnosis or treatment on the NHS can be debilitating, impacting your ability to function at your best in all areas of life.

The Financial Drain of a Major Health Event: A Summary

Financial Impact AreaDescriptionPotential Cost (Illustrative)
Direct Income LossTime off work beyond company sick pay, relying on statutory pay.£1,500+ per month loss
Career StagnationInability to pursue promotions or new opportunities.£10,000s in lost annual salary growth
Productivity SlumpReduced efficiency and focus ("presenteeism") before and after illness.Equivalent to weeks or months of lost output
Carer's BurdenA partner or family member reducing work to provide care.£20,000+ per year in lost income for the carer
Future InsurabilityDeveloping a chronic condition can make future cover (like income protection) more expensive or unavailable.Higher future premiums or inability to get cover

Waiting for treatment can be one of the biggest drains. As of early 2025, NHS waiting lists in England remain a significant concern, with millions waiting for consultant-led elective care. A delay of months for a hip replacement isn't just an inconvenience; it's months of pain, immobility, and potentially lost income.

Pillar 1: Proactive Health – Your Foundational Investment

The most powerful health strategy is prevention. Before we even discuss insurance, building a lifestyle that promotes vitality is the first and most crucial step. A small, consistent investment of time and effort here pays dividends for decades.

1. Fuel Your Body: The Power of Nutrition

What you eat directly impacts your energy levels, cognitive function, and immune system. Forget fad diets; focus on sustainable, balanced principles.

  • Embrace Colour: Aim for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. The Mediterranean diet is consistently ranked as one of the healthiest, linked to lower rates of heart disease and improved brain health.
  • Hydration is Key: Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and poor concentration.
  • Mindful Eating: Pay attention to what and when you eat. Avoid processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, which can lead to inflammation and energy crashes.

WeCovr Wellness Tip: As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It makes understanding your food intake simple and helps you build healthier eating habits without the fuss.

2. Move Your Body: The Non-Negotiable for Vitality

The human body is designed to move. A sedentary lifestyle is a major risk factor for numerous health issues, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

  • NHS Guidelines: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week (like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or HIIT).
  • Strength is Stability: Include muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week. This could be lifting weights, using resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups. It helps maintain bone density and metabolic rate.
  • Find What You Love: The best exercise is the one you'll actually do. Whether it's dancing, hiking, team sports, or gardening, find an activity that brings you joy.

3. Master Your Mind: Sleep and Stress Management

Your mental wellbeing is intrinsically linked to your physical health. Chronic stress and poor sleep can wreak havoc on your immune system and cognitive function.

  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, avoid screens an hour before bed, and ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Manage Stress: Identify your stress triggers and develop coping mechanisms. This could be mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, spending time in nature, or connecting with friends and family.
  • Digital Detox: Regularly unplug from your devices. Constant notifications and the pressure of being "always on" contribute significantly to mental fatigue.

Investing in these three areas—diet, exercise, and mental wellbeing—is the bedrock of your health. It reduces your risk of illness and ensures you have the energy and resilience to perform at your peak.

Pillar 2: Private Medical Insurance (PMI) – Your Financial Safety Net

A proactive lifestyle dramatically lowers your health risks, but it doesn't eliminate them. Accidents happen. Unexpected conditions arise. This is where Private Medical Insurance (PMI) becomes your essential safety net, protecting both your health and your financial investment in yourself.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)?

In simple terms, PMI is a type of insurance policy that covers the costs of private healthcare for acute conditions.

CRITICAL POINT: It is vital to understand that standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions.

  • 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., a cataract, joint injury, hernia).
  • A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured and is managed over the long term (e.g., diabetes, asthma, hypertension). These are managed by the NHS.
  • A pre-existing condition is any ailment you had symptoms of or received advice or treatment for before your policy began.

PMI is designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it. The NHS is brilliant for emergency care and managing chronic conditions. PMI provides a solution for non-urgent, acute issues where NHS waiting lists can be long.

The Core Benefits of UK Private Health Cover

  1. Speed of Access: This is arguably the biggest benefit. Instead of waiting months for a diagnosis or procedure on the NHS, you can often see a specialist within days and receive treatment within weeks.
  2. Choice and Control: PMI gives you more control over your healthcare. You can often choose the specialist who treats you and the hospital where you receive care.
  3. Advanced Treatments and Drugs: Some policies provide access to newer, more advanced drugs, treatments, and surgical techniques that may not be available on the NHS due to cost or other restrictions.
  4. Comfort and Privacy: Treatment is provided in a private hospital, which typically means a private room with an en-suite bathroom, more flexible visiting hours, and better food—small comforts that make a big difference during a stressful time.

NHS vs. Private Medical Insurance: A Tale of Two Knee Replacements

To illustrate the difference, let's consider a common scenario: needing a knee replacement.

StageNHS PathwayPrivate Medical Insurance Pathway
1. GP ReferralGP refers you to an NHS orthopaedic specialist.GP refers you to a private orthopaedic specialist.
2. Specialist ConsultationYou join the waiting list. Average wait can be months.Appointment is booked, often within days or a couple of weeks.
3. Diagnostics (MRI)Further waiting for an MRI scan slot. Can take several more weeks or months.MRI scan is booked and completed, often within a few days.
4. Treatment (Surgery)You are placed on the surgical waiting list. The median wait was over 14 weeks in 2024, with many waiting much longer.Surgery is scheduled at a time convenient for you, often within a few weeks.
5. RecoveryRecovery in an NHS ward, potentially shared with several other patients.Recovery in a private, en-suite room.
Total Time (GP to Surgery)6-18+ months1-2 months

The PMI pathway gets you back on your feet, back to work, and back to living your life a year or more sooner than might be possible on the NHS. That's a year of lost productivity, potential income, and quality of life regained.

How PMI Directly Boosts Your Financial Wellbeing

Investing a relatively small monthly premium in private health cover can generate enormous financial returns by mitigating the very risks we outlined earlier.

1. Minimising Income Loss

Let's do some simple maths. The median UK full-time salary is approximately £35,000 per year, or around £2,900 per month.

  • Scenario: You need a hernia operation. The NHS waiting list is 6 months. During this time, you are in discomfort and your productivity is low.
  • Financial Impact: You take 2 weeks off post-surgery. However, the 6-month wait has been stressful and physically draining.
  • With PMI: You see a specialist in a week and have the surgery within a month. Your total downtime from diagnosis to full recovery is perhaps 6 weeks.
  • The Return: You avoid 4-5 months of painful waiting, anxiety, and "presenteeism." You are back to full earning capacity faster. If your condition prevented you from working at all, PMI could save you over £10,000 in lost gross income compared to a long wait.

2. Protecting Your Career Trajectory

Key career moments—a promotion, a major project, starting a business—require you to be at your best. A nagging health issue can be a silent career killer.

Imagine you're a self-employed consultant aiming to land a major new client. You develop severe back pain. With PMI, you can get a rapid diagnosis (e.g., a slipped disc) and immediate physiotherapy or injections. You manage the issue quickly and secure the client. Without it, you might be struggling with pain and painkillers for months, unable to focus and ultimately losing the opportunity. This single event could be the difference of tens of thousands of pounds in annual income.

3. The Power of Peace of Mind

The mental benefit of knowing you have a plan B is invaluable. This "peace of mind" isn't just a feeling; it's a tangible asset.

  • Reduced Stress: Worrying about a health issue or a long wait is a significant source of chronic stress, which is linked to poor decision-making and reduced cognitive function.
  • Increased Focus: When you aren't distracted by health anxieties, you can dedicate more mental energy to your work, your family, and your personal growth.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you find a policy that delivers this peace of mind without breaking the bank, ensuring your cover is perfectly matched to your needs and budget.

The PMI market can seem complex, but it's straightforward once you understand the key components. An independent broker is your best guide through this landscape.

Key Policy Decisions

  1. Underwriting Type:

    • Moratorium: This is the most common type. The insurer does not ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they will generally exclude any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. These exclusions can be lifted if you go a set period (usually 2 years) without any issues after your policy starts.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history when you apply. The insurer then states clearly what is and isn't covered from the outset. It takes longer to set up but offers more certainty.

  2. Level of Cover:

    • Inpatient Only: This is the most basic level. It covers costs when you are admitted to a hospital bed for treatment.
    • Inpatient + Outpatient: A more comprehensive option. It also covers diagnostic tests and consultations that don't require a hospital stay. You can usually choose a limit for outpatient cover (e.g., £500, £1,000, or unlimited).
    • Comprehensive: This is the top tier, often including therapies (physio, osteopathy), mental health support, and other add-ons.

  3. Optional Extras:

    • Mental Health Cover: Increasingly important, this provides access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapy.
    • Dental and Optical: Can be added to cover routine check-ups and treatments.
    • Therapies Cover: Covers treatments like physiotherapy, which are crucial for musculoskeletal recovery.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for You

There is no single "best" provider; there is only the best provider for you. Insurers like Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality all have different strengths, specialities, and pricing structures.

This is where a broker becomes indispensable.

  • Expert Guidance: An FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr understands the nuances of each policy from every major UK insurer.
  • Market Comparison: We do the shopping for you, comparing dozens of policies to find the one that offers the best value for your specific needs.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium price. You pay the same price (or often less) than going direct.
  • Client Advocacy: We work for you, not the insurance company. We are here to help you at the point of sale and if you ever need to claim.

WeCovr Added Value: When you purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us, we often provide discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your entire financial life more affordably.

Comparison of Typical PMI Policy Tiers

FeatureBasic Cover (Inpatient Only)Mid-Range CoverComprehensive Cover
Inpatient Treatment✅ Full Cover✅ Full Cover✅ Full Cover
Outpatient Diagnostics❌ Not included✅ Capped (£500-£1,500)✅ Full Cover
Outpatient Consultations❌ Not included✅ Capped (£500-£1,500)✅ Full Cover
Therapies (e.g., Physio)❌ Not included🟨 Optional Add-on✅ Included
Mental Health Support❌ Not included🟨 Optional Add-on✅ Often included
Hospital Choice🟨 Limited Network✅ Good Network✅ Full UK Network
Indicative Monthly Cost£30 - £50£50 - £90£90 - £150+

Note: Costs are illustrative for a healthy 40-year-old and vary widely based on age, location, and chosen options.

The Multi-Million Pound Calculation: A Lifetime of Returns

Let's bring this all together with a hypothetical case study of two individuals, both aged 30.

  • Reactive Rita: Relies solely on the NHS. She earns the UK median salary. She experiences several health issues over her career, leading to extended waits, stress, and periods of reduced productivity. She misses out on a key promotion at age 45 due to being on a waiting list for a gynaecological procedure for 9 months. She retires at 67 with a solid, but not spectacular, financial legacy.
  • Proactive Paul: Also earns the median salary. At 30, he invests in a mid-range PMI policy for £60/month and commits to a healthy lifestyle.
    • Age 38: Develops a painful shoulder impingement. Through his PMI, he gets an MRI, a steroid injection, and a full course of physiotherapy within 6 weeks. He barely misses a day of work. Rita might have waited 9 months for the same care pathway.
    • Age 52: Is diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer. His PMI provides prompt access to a leading surgeon using the latest robotic techniques, minimising side effects. The peace of mind allows him to focus, and he successfully navigates a major company merger during this period, securing a significant bonus.
    • Ongoing: The wellness benefits included with his policy encourage him to stay active, and he has the energy and vitality to pursue side projects and hobbies.

Over a 37-year career, Paul's small investment (around £26,640 in total premiums) has potentially unlocked hundreds of thousands of pounds in additional earnings through:

  • Avoiding long periods of sick leave.
  • Maintaining peak productivity and securing promotions.
  • Having the physical and mental energy for career advancement.
  • Enjoying a higher quality of life, which itself boosts motivation and success.

While it's impossible to put an exact figure on it, the difference in lifetime earnings and overall net worth between Rita and Paul could easily run into seven figures when compounding investment returns are considered. Paul's health was the platform for his financial success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does UK private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, this is a crucial point to understand. Standard private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK is designed to cover acute conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before taking out the policy) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing management rather than a cure). These will continue to be managed by the NHS.

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

An acute condition is an illness or injury that is short-lived and expected to respond to treatment, leading to a full or near-full recovery. Examples include hernias, cataracts, joint injuries, or infections. A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot currently be cured but can be managed. Examples include diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and arthritis. PMI covers acute conditions, while the NHS is responsible for managing chronic ones.

Is it cheaper to get private health cover when I'm younger?

Yes, absolutely. Premiums are calculated based on risk, and younger, healthier individuals pose a lower risk to insurers. Taking out a policy in your 20s or 30s is significantly cheaper than in your 50s or 60s. Furthermore, by getting cover when you are healthy, you ensure that any new conditions that develop later will be covered, whereas waiting until you have a health concern could mean it becomes an exclusion.

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

An expert, independent broker like WeCovr helps in several ways. Firstly, our service is free to you; we are paid by the insurer. Secondly, we have access to the whole market and can compare dozens of policies to find the best combination of price and benefits for your specific needs, which is hard to do alone. We can also advise on policy options, such as adding an excess or choosing a specific hospital list, that can lower your premium without compromising on essential cover.

Your Health is Your Legacy

Your ability to earn, innovate, provide for your family, and enjoy your life all stem from one source: your health. By treating it as your most precious investment—nurturing it through proactive lifestyle choices and protecting it with a robust private medical insurance policy—you are not just buying healthcare; you are investing in a future of greater vitality, productivity, and prosperity.

Take the first step towards securing your most valuable asset today.

Ready to protect your health and your wealth? Get your free, no-obligation private medical insurance quote from WeCovr today and let our experts find the perfect cover for you.

Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

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.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London