Critical Illness Insurance

Critical illness insurance, also known as trauma insurance or trauma cover pays the insured a lump sum should they suffer from a major condition or critical illness. The top three critical illnesses that are claimed from this type of policy include cancer, heart disease and stroke.

When are critical illness insurance claims paid?

A critical illness insurance claim is paid when the diagnosis of the critical illness (as defined in the policy) is confirmed. You also need to survive for at least 14 days before a claim can be made (this does range between insurers but generally speaking the length of time is 14 days). This is paid as a lump sum, or as a partial payment depending on the terms of your critical illness insurance cover and the critical illness or condition suffered.

What a critical illness insurance cover payout can be used for

Critical illness insurance cover is primarily designed to help cover costs associated with medical treatment for the critical illness or trauma suffered. However there is no rule on how you should spend a critical illness payment. You may choose to also use the funds to pay for living expenses, additional alternative medicine, debts, or a housekeeper or nanny.

Additional extras for critical illness insurance

Some critical illness policies also include a plus or additional cover for early stage cancers (such as early stages of breast cancer or melanomas) or other lesser medical events. These are essentially covering you for more conditions than the standard policies. It is well worth considering taking up the additional 'plus' option which does cost more, however it does offer far greater coverage and peace of mind. It may help to read each trauma definition for conditions you specifically seek cover for. Contact xLife for your free critical illness insurance quotes or trauma insurance quotes.

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April 2010