In the UK, getting health insurance when you already have a medical condition can feel challenging. Many insurers are cautious because pre-existing illnesses can mean higher healthcare costs. However, with the right approach and provider, you can still get valuable cover — sometimes even for your current condition
Getting health insurance with a pre-existing illness can often seem like a complicated process. Many individuals worry that their pre-existing health conditions will prevent them from getting the coverage they need or make the premiums prohibitively expensive.
However, it is important to understand that the UK insurance market recognizes this challenge and there are options available to you. With the right information and the right approach, you can find a plan that suits your needs and gives you peace of mind. It’s not just about getting a policy, but about ensuring you can get the medical help you need at the right time.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we will explore every aspect of health insurance for individuals with pre-existing illnesses in the UK. We will not only compare the major insurance providers, but also learn how different types of coverage work, what terms are typically included or excluded, and what steps you can take to find the most suitable plan for your particular situation. This article will provide you with complete information on this important topic, allowing you to make an informed and confident decision.
What is a Pre-Existing Illness?
A pre-existing illness is any medical condition you had before applying for a healt Insurance policy.Examples include:
- Diabetes
- Asthma
- High blood pressure
- Arthritis
- Heart disease
Insurance companies usually ask about your medical history from the last 5 years — sometimes longer.
Topics
How UK Health Insurers Handle Pre-Existing Conditions
There are three main ways insurers deal with pre-existing illnesses:
1. Exclusion
The insurer agrees to cover you but excludes treatment for your existing condition
2. Moratorium Underwriting
Your pre-existing condition is excluded for a set period (usually 2 years). If you remain symptom-free during that time, the insurer may start covering it.
3. Full Medical Underwriting
The insurer reviews your complete health history before deciding which conditions to cover or exclude.
Options for Health Insurance with a Pre-Existing Condition
Specialist Insurers
Some companies focus on covering people with existing medical issues, though premiums may be higher.
Group or Employer Schemes
Workplace health insurance sometimes covers pre-existing illnesses without exclusions, depending on the policy terms.
Top-Up Plans
If your main insurer excludes a condition, you might find a supplementary policy to cover it.
Factors That Affect Your Premium
- Type and severity of your illness
- How recently you received treatment
- Age and lifestyle factors
- Level of cover you choose
Tips for Finding the Right Policy
1. Be Honest About Your Health – Not disclosing a condition could invalidate your policy.
2. Compare Multiple Providers – Some insurers are more flexible than others.
3. Consider Moratorium Policies – If your condition is well-managed, this can be cost-effective.
4. Check NHS vs Private Care Balance – Some conditions might be better handled by the NHS, reducing your private cover needs.
The Application Process: What to Expect When Applying
Initial Inquiry & Quote: How to make the initial inquiry and get a quote.
Medical Questionnaire: Medical questions asked in the application form.
Disclosure of Medical History: The importance of honestly disclosing your entire medical history.
Underwriting Review: The review process of your application and medical history by the insurance company.
Receiving Your Offer: How and when you receive a coverage offer (with or without exclusions).
Understanding Your Policy Documents and Exclusions
Reading the Small Print: The importance of reading policy documents carefully.
Specific Exclusions: Identifying the exclusions clearly mentioned in your policy.
Waiting Periods: The waiting period before coverage for a specific condition begins.
Making a Claim: What is the process for making a claim (if a pre-existing condition is covered).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I get UK health insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?
Yes, but the insurer may exclude that condition, add a waiting period, or charge higher premiums.
2. What is a moratorium period in health insurance?
It’s a set time (usually 2 years) during which your pre-existing condition isn’t covered. If you remain symptom-free, it may be included later.
3. Are there insurers that cover all pre-existing illnesses?
Some specialist insurers offer this, but premiums are usually higher and terms stricter.
4. Will my medication for a pre-existing illness be covered?
This depends on your policy; many exclude ongoing prescriptions for pre-existing conditions.
5. Is it cheaper to get health insurance through work?
Often, yes — and some employer plans cover pre-existing conditions without restrictions.
6. Should I get private cover if I already have NHS access?
Yes, if you want faster treatment, choice of specialists, and access to private facilities.