The cost of private health insurance varies based on several factors, including the ages of those covered, your location, whether you smoke or vape, and the level of cover you select. Understanding these elements can help you choose a policy that best suits your needs.
The right cover for you will depend on your individual circumstances. While many health insurance plans offer similar benefits, what truly sets providers apart is their commitment to customer care and service excellence.
Selecting the most suitable policy can sometimes feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help. Get in touch with us for a free, no-obligation quote, and we’ll guide you through the process to ensure you find the best cover at a competitive price.
For further details and guidance for selecting the right private health insurance policy please contact us be clicking on the button below or click on the following link to access WPA's comprehensive Understanding Health Insurance guide.
Health insurance, also known as private medical insurance (PMI), is a policy designed to help cover the cost of private healthcare, either partially or entirely.
With health insurance in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that should you or a loved one fall ill, you will have access to top-tier treatment at a time and location that suits your needs. In this guide, we will walk you through the essentials of health insurance, including tips on choosing the right policy, understanding its coverage, and evaluating associated costs.
We’ll also break down the differences between health insurance and cash plans, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare options.
Choosing the right cover can be complex, and your needs are unique. Please feel free to contact us for a free, no-obligation quotation. We will guide you through the process and help you find the right cover for you.
Health Insurance Options Tailored to Your Needs
Health insurance policies offer a wide range of coverage options, allowing you to select a plan that aligns with your specific requirements and budget. A typical health insurance policy may include coverage for the following:
Wellbeing and Support Services
To support your overall health, many health insurance plans provide extra services designed to enhance your wellbeing. These often include mental health support, counselling, and access to wellness programs to promote holistic health.
Inpatient and Daypatient Care
A key feature of health insurance is coverage for inpatient and daypatient treatment. It's crucial to understand the extent of coverage for various medical procedures, surgeries, and hospital stays, particularly when opting for private care.
Diagnostic Services
Diagnostic tests are essential for the early detection and management of medical conditions. Insurance typically covers diagnostic procedures such as MRIs, CT scans, and PET scans, enabling timely and accurate diagnoses.
Outpatient Services and Cancer Treatment
Outpatient treatment, which includes consultations and examinations, is an important aspect of healthcare. It may be offered as part of your policy or as an optional add-on. Additionally, cancer care, including consultations, treatments, and therapies, may be included in your plan or available as a separate option.
Therapies
Therapeutic treatments, whether on an inpatient or daypatient basis, can be part of your health insurance policy. Common therapies include physiotherapy, chiropody, homeopathy, and acupuncture. These may be covered as standard or as an optional benefit with specific limits.
Finding the Right Coverage
Selecting the appropriate health insurance can be challenging, especially if you have specific health needs or want clarity on what is included. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote, and we will be happy to guide you through the process and help you find the best coverage for your needs.rocess and help you secure the right cover.
While health insurance offers extensive coverage, it's important to understand that certain treatments and conditions are generally excluded. Health insurance is intended to complement, not replace, the NHS. The policy terms and conditions will outline the exclusions, which typically include:
Pre-existing conditions
Long-term chronic conditions
Fertility treatments, pregnancy, and childbirth
Cosmetic procedures
Self-inflicted injuries
It's crucial to review the full terms and conditions of any health insurance policy to clearly understand what is and isn't included in your coverage.
Choosing the right cover can be complex, and your needs are unique. Perhaps you have a detailed medical history or would like clarity on what is and isn’t covered. Please feel free to contact us for a free, no-obligation quotation. We are here to guide you through the process and help you secure the right cover.
A pre-existing condition refers to any physical or mental health issue, illness, disease, or injury—whether symptomatic or not—that was present before your policy or scheme began.
This includes any condition for which you have previously received treatment, medication, or medical advice, as well as any symptoms you may have experienced, even if no formal diagnosis was made.
Selecting the right health cover can be complex, especially if you have a medical history that requires careful consideration. If you need clarification on what is and isn’t covered, feel free to reach out for a free, no-obligation quote. Our team is here to support you in finding the most suitable cover for your needs.
Myth 1: I Don’t Need Health Insurance Because the NHS is Free.
Reality: While the NHS provides free healthcare for UK residents, it’s not without limitations. The NHS can experience long wait times for non-emergency procedures, and certain treatments may not be available. Private health insurance can complement NHS care by providing faster access to treatments, private rooms, and additional services that may not be covered by the NHS.
2. Myth: I’m Young and Healthy, I Don’t Need Health Insurance.
Reality: Even if you are young and healthy, accidents and unexpected health issues can happen at any time. Health insurance helps protect you from the high cost of medical emergencies, surgeries, or even something as simple as needing prescription medication. Plus, being insured gives you access to preventative care, which can catch health problems early before they become serious.
Myth 3: Private health insurance is only for older adults or those with pre-existing conditions
Reality: Private health insurance is for everyone, not just those in a certain age group or with health issues. It’s an excellent option for young adults, families, and anyone seeking peace of mind and comprehensive coverage. It provides valuable protection and flexibility, no matter your age or health status.
Myth 4: Private health insurance is too expensive and out of reach
Reality: While private health insurance can have a higher upfront cost than relying on the NHS, it can offer quicker access to treatments and private rooms in hospitals. There are a variety of plans available at different price points, and some employers may offer affordable health insurance packages. Additionally, the cost of private insurance may be offset by reduced wait times and more direct access to specialists.
Myth 4: Private health insurance only covers major medical issues
Private health insurance isn’t limited to serious health conditions. It covers a variety of healthcare services, from preventive care and dental visits to diagnostic tests and specialised treatments. Whether you need treatment for a serious condition or just routine care, private health insurance offers broad coverage, although pre-existing conditions may not be covered if they were present before you took out the policy.
5. Myth: I Can’t Get Health Insurance If I Have a Pre-Existing Condition.
Reality: Unlike the NHS, where care is provided regardless of pre-existing conditions, private insurers in the UK may ask about pre-existing conditions when you apply. However, many insurers offer policies that cover pre-existing conditions after a certain waiting period, or they may provide coverage for new conditions that arise after the policy begins. It's always worth exploring your options, as policies vary.
Myth 6: Private health insurance is too complicated to understand
Understanding private health insurance can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Insurance providers offer clear resources, tools, and customer support to help guide you through the process. With these resources, you can make informed decisions and find a plan that meets your unique needs.
7. Myth: Health Insurance Only Helps With Major Emergencies.
Reality: Private health insurance in the UK doesn’t just cover emergencies; it can also help with non-emergency treatments such as elective surgeries, physiotherapy, and mental health support. It provides quicker access to treatment for both minor and major health concerns, reducing wait times and providing more treatment options.
8. Myth: I Can Only See Doctors Within My Insurance Network.
Reality: Most private health insurance plans in the UK allow you to choose from a list of healthcare providers, but they do tend to offer a network of preferred doctors and hospitals. However, some policies may have more restricted networks, whereas others (WPA plans) allow for more flexibility with their network of providers.
9. Myth: All Health Insurance Plans Are the Same.
Reality: Health insurance policies in the UK vary widely. Some policies only cover hospital treatment, while others may include access to private GPs, specialists, or alternative therapies. Some insurers also provide coverage for dental and optical care, while others don’t. It’s important to compare different plans to find the one that best suits your needs.
10. Myth: Having Health Insurance Means No Out-of-Pocket Costs.
Reality: While private health insurance can reduce out-of-pocket costs, you may still have to pay for excess fees (the amount you pay before your insurance kicks in) or for treatments that are not covered by your plan. It's essential to understand the level of coverage, co-payments, and exclusions in your plan to know what you’ll be responsible for.
Private health insurance in the UK provides access to a range of benefits beyond what is available through the NHS. While the NHS offers excellent care, private medical insurance (PMI) can enhance your healthcare experience by offering:
Faster Access to Treatment – Avoid long NHS waiting times and receive quicker appointments, diagnostic tests, and treatments.
Choice of Specialists & Hospitals – Gain access to private hospitals and choose the consultant or specialist best suited to your needs.
Comfort & Privacy – Benefit from private hospital rooms and a more comfortable treatment experience.
Advanced Treatments & Drugs – Access treatments, medications, and therapies that may not be widely available on the NHS.
24/7 Virtual GP Services – Many policies include remote GP consultations, allowing you to speak with a doctor at any time.
Comprehensive Cover for Specific Needs – Tailor your policy to include outpatient treatments, physiotherapy, mental health support, and more.
Private health insurance provides peace of mind, ensuring you receive timely and high-quality medical care when you need it most. Would you like help finding the right cover for your needs?
Choosing the right private health insurance policy requires careful consideration to ensure it meets your needs. Each policy varies in terms of cover, benefits, and costs. When comparing options, consider the following key factors:
1. Customer Feedback and Reputation
Look at customer reviews and ratings for different insurers and their policies. Feedback from policyholders can provide insight into customer service quality, claims processing efficiency, and overall satisfaction. Reviewing both positive and negative experiences will help you form a balanced opinion.
2. Costs and Affordability
Compare the overall cost of each policy, including:
Premiums – The monthly or annual amount paid for cover.
Deductibles & Excess – The upfront amount you need to pay before your insurance contributes.
Co-payments & Shared Responsibility – Any percentage of treatment costs you must cover yourself.
Balancing affordability with the level of cover required is key to choosing a policy that suits both your healthcare needs and budget.
3. Level of Cover and Benefits
Assess the medical services included in each policy, such as in-patient and out-patient care, specialist consultations, and diagnostic tests. Also, consider how the chosen underwriting method affects your cover, as this may impact eligibility for certain treatments.
3. Network of Healthcare Providers
Check if your preferred hospitals, clinics, and specialists are included in the insurer’s network. Having access to familiar and convenient healthcare providers can make a significant difference in the quality and accessibility of your care.
5. Additional Services and Perks
Some policies offer extra benefits such as 24/7 virtual GP consultations, mental health support, wellness programmes, or alternative therapies. Consider whether these additional services align with your healthcare priorities.
By thoroughly comparing these aspects, you can make a well-informed decision when selecting a private health insurance policy. If needed, seek advice from an insurance professional to ensure you find a policy that offers the right balance of cost, cover, and convenience for your personal circumstances.
It’s also important to note that private health insurance in the UK typically does not cover pre-existing conditions, which would need to be treated through the NHS.
Choosing the right cover can be complex, and your needs are unique. Please feel free to contact us for a free, no-obligation quotation. We will guide you through the process and help you put the right cover in place.
Unlike health insurance, which primarily covers the treatment of unexpected medical conditions, cash plans help with the cost of everyday healthcare. You don't need to be unwell to benefit—it's an affordable way to recover expenses for essential, routine healthcare services.
Routine Healthcare Services Covered Include:
Dental check-ups and treatments
Eye exams, prescription glasses, and contact lenses
Physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and osteopathy
Reimbursement for specialist consultations
Eligible treatment costs are reimbursed directly to you, making it a convenient way to manage everyday healthcare expenses.
If you would like more information or any other questions, please feel free to contact us for a free, no-obligation quotation. We are here to guide you through the process and help you secure the right cover.
Making a claim with WPA is simple, you can start a health insurance claim using the WPA Health app, on our secure My WPA website or on the phone. With health insurance claims, we ask that all are pre-authorised before you incur any costs and eligible invoices are paid directly by WPA to your provider.
The treatment lifecycle
Consulting a GP
If you’re feeling unwell, your first step should be to contact a GP, as they are best placed to assess your condition and recommend any necessary investigations or treatment. This can be your own GP, or you may have access This can be your own GP or you can use the Remote GP Services benefit to get access to a remote GP helpline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
In the case of a medical emergency, it’s essential to seek immediate assistance from the NHS—do not delay in getting urgent care.
If a GP determines that you require further tests or treatment, they will provide a referral and guidance on the appropriate specialist or healthcare provider. Additionally, we can help you identify private healthcare providers in your area, including specialists, therapists, and hospitals. To ensure a smooth referral process, inform your GP that you have private health insurance.
Start a claim
Before any tests or treatment are started it's important you discuss your claim with WPA. This gives them the opportunity to advise you on the benefits available to you and will ensure you do not receive any unexpected expenses. You can start your claim via the WPA health app, or via the My WPA online member portal on the WPA website or by contacting their customer support team.
To process your claim, you will need to provide details of your symptoms and the name and address of the healthcare provider you’ve been referred to.
Once your claim is submitted, you will receive an immediate decision outlining the details of your cover and the benefits available. You’ll also be given an authorisation reference, which should be shared with your healthcare provider along with your WPA customer number.
After your claim is approved, you can arrange your consultation, tests, or treatment at a time and place that suits you. WPA provide an online search tool to help you find recognised healthcare providers in your area, ensuring they meet professional standards and deliver high-quality care.
Click on the following link to see a helpful viideo on How To Make A WPA Claim
Treatment provider bills
WPA will arrange payment for your treatment or tests directly with the healthcare provider. If your policy includes an excess, shared responsibility, or a benefit limit that applies, they will inform you of any contributions required. You can monitor the progress of your claims and check any remaining benefit limits through the WPA health app or My WPA online member portal.
The Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN) provides independent insights into the quality and cost of private healthcare. You can access information about doctors, hospitals, and treatment options att www.phin.org.uk.
Search by specialty, practitioner name, or hospital name. You can also combine these filters to refine your results and find the most relevant options.
Please click on the following link and enter your postcode to find the type of healthcare provider you are looking for.
A cash benefit is a monetary amount towards everyday healthcare costs including time spent in an NHS hospital. If you choose to receive in-patient treatment, day-patient treatment, out-patient complex diagnostic scans or out-patient procedures as an NHS patient instead of as a private patient, you may be able to claim a cash benefit. Additionally, your WPA health insurance may offer other cash benefits such as NHS car parking charges, optical and dental treatment.
You can still claim for a cash benefit using the WPA Health app, My WPA login or by contacting our helpdesk, but unlike a health insurance claim we will reimburse you directly into your bank account (subject to benefit limits and level of cover) once you have paid the provider and submitted an eligible claim. All claims must be submitted within 6 months of the treatment taking place.
Please Click on the following link to see a useful viideo on How To Make A Cash Claim
24/7 Remote GP Helpline – Anytime, Anywhere
Gain access to a dedicated remote GP helpline, available 24/7, 365 days a year. Whether you need medical advice, reassurance, a diagnosis, medication, or a referral, you can speak to a qualified GP from anywhere in the world—at a time that suits you.
Click the link below to watch a helpful video on WPA's Remote GP Services.
How It Works
Request an Appointment
Call the helpline or use the WPA Health app to book a consultation.
Provide Your Details
Share the details of the patient (yourself or a family member) and the reason for the consultation.
Choose Your Appointment Type
Select either a telephone or video consultation at a time that’s convenient for you.
Speak with a GP
A GP will call you within 15 minutes of the scheduled time, and the consultation will last as long as necessary.
What Happens After Your Consultation?
Private Prescription Medication
If required, the GP can arrange for private prescription medication to be delivered to your home or workplace. Please note that prescription costs are not covered unless your WPA policy includes this benefit.
Open Referral for Specialist Care
If further investigation is needed, the GP can provide an open private referral letter via email.
Private Fit Note
If necessary, the GP can issue and email a private fit note for you.
Please note: While a GP may refer you to a specialist or therapist, they cannot directly arrange scans or tests.
About the GPs
All GPs hold Bachelor of Medicine degrees and are Members of the Royal College of GPs. They are experienced NHS practitioners, fully GMC-registered and licensed, listed on the NHS England Performers List and GP Register, and covered by £10m liability insurance. Where possible, we will accommodate your preference for a male or female doctor.
80% of patients receive the diagnosis or advice they need without requiring further medical appointments.
Is This Service Included in Your Policy?
This is an optional benefit available with certain plans. Please check your benefit schedule for detials.
Dental plans generally offer the following benefits:
Regular check-ups and examinations
Contributions towards general dental procedures such as x-rays and fillings
Cash benefits for emergency dental appointments
These are just some of the services covered with a Providental cash plan.
Treatment
Maintain your oral health with coverage for routine dental treatments to keep your teeth in excellent condition.
Emergencies
Receive reimbursement for emergency dental appointments when you're experiencing acute pain, swelling, or dental haemorrhage.
Injuries
Get cashback for restorative treatments if your teeth are injured due to an external impact to the face, teeth, or jaw.
Restorative Care
Receive coverage for treatment from a recognised specialist if restorative care is needed due to oral cancer.
Hospital Stays
A lump sum benefit is provided if you receive treatment in an NHS hospital for a dental injury or restorative care resulting from oral cancer.
What's Not Covered?
As with all cash plans, there are certain exclusions. For a full list of what is not covered, please refer to the 'Guide to Your Cash Plan' available during the quote process.
Key Exclusions Include:
Claims submitted more than six months after the treatment date
Pre-existing conditions (excluding general dental treatment)
Dental consumables or appliances such as mouth guards
Cosmetic or aesthetic treatments, implants, veneers, or treatments aimed at enhancing appearance, unless authorised under specific benefits like dental injuries or oral cancer restorative treatment
Treatment related to high-risk sports or activities that require a disclaimer before participation
Wisdom teeth treatment, unless performed in general dental surgery (not a hospital)
How to make a claim?
For routine dental treatment and emergencies:
After receiving dental treatment, please ensure you pay your dentist's bill in full. Then file a claim within six months of the treatment date. To make a claim, simply login to your secure online account via the WPA health app, or through the My WPA login and follow the on-screen instructions. WPA will process all eligible claims and transfer the payment directly to your bank account, with confirmation sent via SMS.
For Dental Injuries and Restorative Treatment Due to Oral Cancer:
Dental Injuries: If you experience an external blow to your face, teeth, or jaw, it’s essential to attend an emergency appointment within 72 hours of the injury and notify us within this timeframe.
Restorative Treatment Following Oral Cancer Diagnosis: If diagnosed with oral cancer, please inform us so we can pre-authorise your restorative dental treatment plan before you proceed.
Whatever the size of your business, WPA have a comprehensive range of products and advanced services to support employee health and wellbeing.
The way employees can submit claims will depend on the type of policy they are on.
For example:
Enterprise Flexible Benefits: For an Essential claim, your employee will need to get a referral from their GP and then give us a call to pre-authorise their claim. We'll take it from there.
If your employee is looking to claim money back on their everyday healthcare expenses under Cash Extras Wellness or Dental, they just need to sign into their secure online account via the My WPA login and follow the on-screen instructions.
If requested, they will need to send WPA the completed form and associated receipts within six months of the eligible treatment date.
For more information on Enterprise Flexible Benifits product including how to make a claim click on the following link [EFB]
Precision Corporate Healthcare: For private medical insurance (PMI) claims for Specialist or hospital treatment or for Mental Health claims: The Company Scheme member will need to let us know in advance of receiving treatment. This pre-authorisation can be done 24/7 via the WPA Health App or by contacting the WPA Customer Service Team.
They can self-refer to a Therapist or Specialist, without the need to see a GP, for a short course of eligible treatment if the condition is not related to Mental Health. However, as above this requires them to contact us in advance of receiving treatment.
For cash benefit claims: If a Company Scheme member is looking to claim money back on their everyday healthcare expenses under one of the various Cash Benefit options selected (e.g. optical, dental or for health screens) then they can sign in to their secure online account and follow the on-screen instructions or use the WPA Health App.
For more information on Precision Corporate Healthcare product including how to make a claim click on the following link [PCH]
NHS Top-Up Corporate: Just ask your employee to sign in to their secure online account to make a claim and follow the on-screen instructions.
For more information on the NHS Top-Up Corporate product, including how to make a claim click on the following link [NHSC]
