Critical illness insurance

UniqueName_2

Hi,

I was hoping for some advice about getting a standalone critical illness policy. I have life insurance and I had a standalone critical illness policy with my employer, but as I have now made a claim the policy is no longer effective.

I am fully recovered from the illness, but would face a higher risk in the future (cancer) so understand it would be more expensive.

Are there any companies that would offer critical illness insurance without concurrent life insurance? It's been a literal lifesaver for me, so I would like to find a way to have the cover in future. My future cancer risk isn't actually any higher than anyone else, but I know insurance companies don't always see it like that!

Thanks

dunstonh

Are there any companies that would offer critical illness insurance without concurrent life insurance?

yes. You may also have to consider specialist insurers who focus on those with poor health histories if you have previously made a CI claim.

ExpertAdvice

Hi,

How long ago did you make the claim and if you don't min me asking, what was the claim made for?

Also, it would help if you could provide a bit more details such as your age, how much cover you are looking for and till what age?

UniqueName_2

Hi,
Thanks for the responses.

I'm 36, the claim was in the last 6 months for cancer - in remission now.

I'd like cover of about £100k, and I don't know how long I would want it, but one way or the other I would expect to be insured now for as long as these policies would apply. Presumably well into your 60's?

weighty1_2

Glad to hear you are in remission now.

I feel it is highly unlikely that you will obtain critical illness cover that would cover you for cancer at any point in the future, especially if the cancer was serious enough to warrant a payout on a cic plan.

You may be able to able a standalone plan which incorporates a cancer exclusion, however, if you had to have chemo and/or radiotherapy then I'd be surprised if you would find a provider willing to offer this until at least a couple of years since the end of the treatment.

Has the employer cover ended completely or is it that you're now just not covered for another cancer or linked claim? This is the general rule for most group providers as they have a caveat which automatically excludes pre-existing conditions.

UniqueName_2

The policy is still active, but it specifically excludes any payments for any further cancer, even if they can't find a link to the old one. To be honest, I get it, there could be rogue cancer cells wandering about, so perhaps I just need to wait a few years.

I'm happy to pay an increased premium for the peace of mind, although I suppose it depends how much really! Any advice on specific insurers who it may be at least talking to?

InsideInsurance

You're better off finding a good Protection Broker or an IFA with a strong interest in Protection.

The main issue is that it is so close to your last diagnosis/ payout

stephenni1971

Regardless of the broker, most companies will give you a flat refusal to provide cover. You may be able to get cover from a specialist company but the price will be incredibly high, there will be exclusions and it's likely they would only offer a policy for a short term of 1/2 or 3 years.