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National Friendly My PMI Mutual Society Health Insurance Explained

As experienced insurance specialists who have arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr helps UK residents find the right private medical insurance. This guide explores National Friendly, a unique mutual society offering a distinct alternative to mainstream insurers, focusing on member value over shareholder profit.

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Mar 24, 2026

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TL;DR

As experienced insurance specialists who have arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr helps UK residents find the right private medical insurance. This guide explores National Friendly, a unique mutual society offering a distinct alternative to mainstream insurers, focusing on member value over shareholder profit.

Key takeaways

  • Keeping Premiums Competitive: By reinvesting profits, National Friendly can help to stabilise premiums over the long term, protecting members from the sharp annual increases sometimes seen elsewhere in the market.
  • Enhancing Policy Benefits: Surplus funds can be used to add new benefits to policies or improve existing ones without necessarily passing the full cost on to members.
  • Discretionary Financial Grants: In some cases, mutuals may offer discretionary grants or support to members facing unexpected hardship, reinforcing the community-based ethos.
  • Investing in Better Service: Profits can be channelled into improving technology, customer service, and the efficiency of the claims process.
  • Hospital Charges: The costs for your room, nursing care, and other services as an in-patient or day-patient.

National Friendly decision check

Is National Friendly actually the right fit for your situation?

National Friendly may be a strong option, but the better question is whether the policy style, hospital access, underwriting approach and price are a good fit for how you would actually use cover.

Why this may help

This can help you weigh up whether National Friendly looks right for you, where it may fall short, and when Freedom, WPA, Bupa and AXA Health deserve a closer look.

See if National Friendly fits my situationCompare National Friendly with alternatives

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General guidance only.

As experienced insurance specialists who have arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr helps UK residents find the right private medical insurance. This guide explores National Friendly, a unique mutual society offering a distinct alternative to mainstream insurers, focusing on member value over shareholder profit.

National Friendly at a glance

CategoryQuick view
Best forReaders who like the idea of a mutual society, simpler PMI structures, and a more member-focused proposition rather than a large-brand experience.
Watch out forHospital access, digital features, and breadth of extras may feel narrower than Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality, or Aviva depending on the policy structure you compare.
Could suitBuyers who value a traditional mutual model, want straightforward cover, and are open to a smaller provider if the overall fit and price make sense.
Alternatives worth checkingFreedom Health review, WPA review, Bupa review, and AXA Health review.

What National Friendly may do well

  • Mutual structure focused on member value rather than shareholder returns
  • Straightforward positioning that can appeal to buyers who want less product clutter
  • A more traditional, member-oriented feel than some larger insurers
  • Potentially appealing for readers comparing smaller or more specialist PMI options

Where National Friendly may be less attractive

  • Less mainstream brand recognition than Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva or Vitality
  • Fewer headline perks and a smaller “feature stack” than some of the largest providers
  • Buyers who prioritise broad hospital access or richer digital support may want to compare carefully
  • The real value depends heavily on the exact policy structure and the alternatives quoted at the same time

Is National Friendly likely to be right for you?

National Friendly may be a good fit if:

  • You prefer the mutual society model
  • You want a smaller-provider alternative to the biggest PMI brands
  • You care more about straightforward member value than reward schemes or heavy branding

You may want to compare alternatives first if:

  • You want the widest mainstream hospital access and feature set
  • You are comparing more digital-first or rewards-led PMI options
  • You want to pressure-test value against Freedom, WPA, Bupa, or AXA Health

If you are comparing smaller-provider routes first, continue with Choosing Between National Friendly and Freedom Health Insurance. If you want the wider market context, move next to Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026 or Top 10 PMI Providers by Market Share UK 2026.

National Friendly My PMI Mutual Society Health Insurance Explained

In the bustling UK private medical insurance market, most providers are large commercial companies. They are typically owned by shareholders and listed on the stock exchange. National Friendly, however, operates on a completely different model: it's a mutual society.

This fundamental difference in structure shapes everything from who benefits from profits to the overall ethos of the organisation. Instead of answering to external shareholders demanding dividends, a mutual society is owned by and run for its members—the policyholders. This guide will unpack what this means for you, exploring the unique benefits of their profit-sharing approach and the specifics of their 'My PMI' health insurance plans.

What is a Mutual Society? The National Friendly Difference

Founded in 1868, National Friendly has a long history of putting its members first. A mutual society is a financial organisation owned by its members, not by external investors or shareholders. Think of it like a club where the members are the owners, and the primary goal is to provide the best possible service and value to those members.

This is a stark contrast to a typical PLC (Public Limited Company), whose primary legal duty is to maximise profits for its shareholders.

Mutual vs. Commercial Insurer: A Tale of Two Structures

To understand the impact of this difference, let's compare the two business models side-by-side.

FeatureNational Friendly (Mutual Society)Typical Commercial Insurer (PLC)
OwnershipOwned by the policyholders (members).Owned by external shareholders.
Primary GoalTo provide value and benefits to members.To generate profit for shareholders.
ProfitsReinvested back into the society to benefit members.Distributed to shareholders as dividends or reinvested to grow the business for shareholder benefit.
AccountabilityAccountable to its members.Accountable to its board of directors and shareholders.
FocusLong-term member satisfaction and stability.Short-term financial performance and share price.

This member-centric approach means that every decision National Friendly makes is guided by a single question: "How will this benefit our members?"

The Power of Profits: How National Friendly Reinvests for Members

One of the most significant advantages of a mutual society is its approach to profits. Without the pressure to pay dividends to shareholders, National Friendly can use any surplus it generates to directly enhance the value it offers to you, the member.

This is often done through several key channels:

  1. Keeping Premiums Competitive: By reinvesting profits, National Friendly can help to stabilise premiums over the long term, protecting members from the sharp annual increases sometimes seen elsewhere in the market.
  2. Enhancing Policy Benefits: Surplus funds can be used to add new benefits to policies or improve existing ones without necessarily passing the full cost on to members.
  3. Discretionary Financial Grants: In some cases, mutuals may offer discretionary grants or support to members facing unexpected hardship, reinforcing the community-based ethos.
  4. Investing in Better Service: Profits can be channelled into improving technology, customer service, and the efficiency of the claims process.

For those looking for a private medical insurance UK provider with a conscience, this model is highly appealing. It fosters a sense of community and shared purpose that is often absent in a purely commercial transaction. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you compare the long-term value of a mutual provider against traditional insurers to see which best fits your financial and healthcare goals.

A Deep Dive into National Friendly's 'My PMI' Health Insurance

National Friendly's flagship health insurance product is 'My PMI'. It's designed to be flexible, allowing you to build a plan that suits your specific needs and budget. The core of the policy is focused on providing cover for in-patient and day-patient treatment for acute conditions.

Crucial Note: Like all standard UK private medical insurance, My PMI is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health. It does not cover pre-existing conditions you had before your policy began, or chronic conditions which require long-term management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, hypertension).

Core Cover: The Foundation of Your Policy

The 'My PMI' plan starts with a robust foundation of core cover. This typically includes:

  • Hospital Charges: The costs for your room, nursing care, and other services as an in-patient or day-patient.
  • Specialist Fees: Fees for the surgeons, anaesthetists, and physicians who treat you in hospital.
  • Diagnostic Tests: Scans and tests like MRI, CT, and PET scans, whether in a hospital setting or on an outpatient basis.
  • Cancer Cover: Comprehensive cover for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. This is a cornerstone of most high-quality PMI policies.
  • NHS Cash Benefit: A fixed cash payment for each night you choose to receive eligible in-patient treatment on the NHS instead of using your private cover.

Building Your Plan: Optional Extras

Where 'My PMI' truly becomes your own is in the selection of optional add-ons. This allows you to control your level of cover and the cost of your premium.

Optional BenefitWhat It CoversWho Is It For?
Outpatient CoverConsultations with specialists and diagnostic tests that don't require a hospital bed. You can often choose a financial limit (e.g., £500, £1,000, or unlimited).Anyone who wants faster access to specialists without needing to wait for an NHS referral for consultations.
Therapies CoverTreatment from physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors, and other recognised therapists to aid recovery.Individuals with active lifestyles, those prone to sports injuries, or anyone wanting swift access to recovery support post-surgery.
Mental Health CoverAccess to consultations with psychiatrists and psychologists, and in-patient or day-patient psychiatric treatment.A vital option for those who want to prioritise their mental wellbeing and ensure fast access to professional support.

Choosing the right combination of options can be daunting. A specialist broker can provide tailored advice, helping you balance comprehensive cover with a premium that works for you.

Choosing Your Underwriting: Moratorium vs. Full Medical

When you apply for a 'My PMI' policy, you'll need to choose an underwriting method. This is how the insurer assesses your medical history to decide what they will and won't cover.

  1. Moratorium Underwriting (Most Common): With this option, you don't need to provide your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer will automatically exclude treatment for any condition you've had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in the five years before your policy started. However, if you then go two continuous years on the policy without any symptoms, advice, or treatment for that condition, it may become eligible for cover. It's simpler and faster to set up.

  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): This involves completing a detailed health questionnaire about your medical history. The insurer will review this information and tell you from the outset exactly what is and isn't covered. It takes longer to set up but provides complete clarity from day one.

Understanding Key Policy Details: Excess, Hospital Lists, and Claims

Getting to grips with the finer details of your policy is essential for a smooth experience when you need to use it.

Setting Your Excess: Balancing Premiums and Payouts

An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of your treatment each policy year. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your first claim of the year is for a £2,000 procedure, you would pay the first £250 and National Friendly would pay the remaining £1,750.

  • Higher Excess = Lower Premium: By agreeing to pay more towards your own care, you reduce the insurer's risk, and they reward you with a lower monthly or annual premium.
  • Lower Excess = Higher Premium (illustrative): A lower excess (including a £0 option) means you'll pay less out-of-pocket when you claim, but your regular premiums will be higher.

National Friendly's 'My PMI' offers a range of excess options, typically from £0 up to £1,000 or more, giving you direct control over your costs.

The National Friendly Hospital List

Insurers have agreements with specific hospital groups across the UK. The list of hospitals you can use is determined by the option you choose when you take out your policy. A more restricted list (e.g., excluding central London hospitals) will usually result in a lower premium. It's vital to check that the list includes convenient, high-quality hospitals in your local area.

The Claims Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making a claim with National Friendly is designed to be straightforward:

  1. Visit Your GP: Your first port of call is always your NHS GP. If they believe you need to see a specialist, they will provide you with an open referral letter.
  2. Contact National Friendly: Before you book any appointments or treatment, you must call their claims team. They will check that your condition is covered and pre-authorise the treatment.
  3. Find a Specialist: National Friendly can help you find a recognised specialist from their approved network.
  4. Receive Treatment: Attend your consultation and any subsequent treatment.
  5. Settle the Bill: In most cases, the hospital and specialist will bill National Friendly directly, so you don't have to worry about paperwork. You will only need to pay your chosen excess.

Beyond Insurance: Added Value for National Friendly Members

Being a member of National Friendly comes with perks that extend beyond the core insurance policy. These are designed to support your overall health and wellbeing.

  • Friendly GP: A virtual GP service providing 24/7 access to a doctor via phone or video call. This is incredibly useful for getting quick advice, prescriptions, or referrals without waiting for an appointment at your local surgery.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to a dedicated helpline for immediate, confidential support from trained counsellors.
  • Member-focused Communication: As a member-owner, you'll receive regular updates on the society's performance and have a voice in how it is run, often through AGMs (Annual General Meetings).

These added-value services are a key part of the 'mutual difference', demonstrating a commitment to member welfare that goes beyond just paying claims.

Proactive Health: Small Changes, Big Impact

While having robust health insurance is a fantastic safety net, the best strategy is always to proactively manage your health. Small, consistent habits can dramatically reduce your risk of developing many acute and chronic conditions.

  • Balanced Diet: Aim for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. According to NHS guidance, eating at least five portions of a variety of fruit and veg every day can lower your risk of serious health problems.
  • Regular Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity. This could be anything from a brisk walk or cycling to a gym class.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is linked to a range of health issues, including a weakened immune system and higher stress levels.
  • Manage Stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as mindfulness, yoga, spending time in nature, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.

At WeCovr, we believe in supporting our clients' holistic health. That's why customers who purchase private medical or life insurance through us receive complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help them stay on top of their wellness goals.

Is National Friendly the Right Choice for You?

National Friendly's 'My PMI' is an excellent option for individuals, couples, and families who:

  • Value the ethical and member-focused approach of a mutual society.
  • Want a flexible policy that they can tailor to their exact needs.
  • Appreciate added-value benefits like a virtual GP service.
  • Are looking for a long-term relationship with an insurer that prioritises stability and member value over short-term profits.

However, the UK private health cover market is diverse. Providers like Aviva, AXA Health, Bupa, and Vitality all offer compelling products with different strengths. The only way to be certain you're getting a strong fit for your unique circumstances and budget is to compare them.

Working with an independent PMI broker like WeCovr gives you a comprehensive overview of the market. We take the time to understand your needs and provide impartial advice, ensuring you find the perfect fit. Plus, if you decide to purchase PMI or life insurance with us, you could be eligible for discounts on other types of cover, like home or travel insurance. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right solution for every client, at no extra cost to you.

Does National Friendly cover conditions I already have?

No. Like all standard UK private medical insurance, National Friendly's My PMI policy does not cover pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any disease, illness, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment in the five years before your policy start date. PMI is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after you join.

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

An acute condition is a disease or injury that is sudden in onset, short in duration, and is expected to respond fully to treatment, returning you to your previous state of health (e.g., a joint replacement, cataract surgery, or removing an appendix). A chronic condition is one that is long-lasting and requires ongoing management rather than a cure (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, or arthritis). Private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions only.

Can I add my family to my National Friendly My PMI policy?

Yes, National Friendly allows you to add your partner and dependent children to your 'My PMI' policy, creating a single plan for the whole family. This can often be more convenient and cost-effective than taking out separate policies for each individual.

How does the National Friendly 'Mutual Benefits' programme work?

As National Friendly has no shareholders to pay, any profits generated are used for the benefit of its members. This can take several forms, such as keeping premiums competitive, enhancing policy benefits over time, or offering discretionary financial support to members in times of need. It's a core part of their ethos of putting members first.

Ready to explore your private medical insurance options and see how National Friendly compares to other leading UK providers?

Get Your Free, No-Obligation Quote from WeCovr Today!

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.

Before you choose

Most people choose more confidently when they compare National Friendly in context, not in isolation.

If you are still unsure after this review, the next useful step is checking whether National Friendly looks like the right fit for your needs or whether Freedom, WPA, Bupa and AXA Health deserve a closer look.

A practical next step

A quick review can help you decide whether there is a real gap worth acting on, rather than leaving you with more unanswered questions.

Find the right PMI option for meCompare National Friendly with alternatives

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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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