How Do I Compare Critical Illness Cover Policies Online?
To compare critical illness policies effectively, look beyond price. Compare condition definitions (especially cancer, heart attack, stroke), the number of conditions covered, claim success rates, and additional benefits. Use comparison sites for initial quotes, but consider an independent adviser for detailed policy analysis.
What to Compare
Number of Conditions
Look for 40+ conditions. More isn't always better - quality of definitions matters more.
Condition Definitions
How strictly is each condition defined? Check cancer, heart attack, and stroke specifically.
Claim Success Rate
Look for insurers with 90%+ claim success rates - published in annual claims reports.
Partial Payments
Does the policy pay smaller amounts for less severe conditions (e.g., early-stage cancer)?
Children's Cover
Most policies include free cover for children - check what conditions are covered.
Additional Benefits
Second opinion services, counselling support, rehabilitation assistance.
Key Definition Differences
Cancer Definitions
Some policies exclude certain cancers (e.g., early-stage prostate cancer) or require a specific stage before paying. Better policies pay for more cancer types and earlier stages.
Heart Attack Definitions
Older policies require permanent heart damage. Modern policies often pay based on troponin levels (blood markers), making claims easier.
Stroke Definitions
Check whether symptoms must persist for a minimum period (e.g., 24 hours). Better policies have shorter or no persistence requirements.
Comparison Site Limitations
Comparison sites are useful for initial quotes but have limitations. They don't show all insurers, can't compare policy definitions in detail, and may not identify the best insurer for your specific health conditions. An independent adviser can provide a more thorough comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I just choose the cheapest policy?
No. Critical illness policies vary significantly in what they cover and how they define conditions. A cheaper policy might have stricter definitions or cover fewer conditions. Compare the policy details, not just the price.
What's the most important thing to compare?
Condition definitions. For example, cancer definitions vary - some policies pay for all cancers, others exclude certain types or stages. Check how heart attack, stroke, and cancer are defined, as these make up most claims.
Can comparison sites show all policies?
Most comparison sites only show a selection of insurers. For a full market comparison, use an independent protection adviser who has access to all providers and can compare policy terms, not just prices.
What about additional benefits?
Compare extras like children's cover (included free with most policies), second medical opinion services, rehabilitation support, and whether the policy pays partial amounts for less severe conditions.
Related Questions
This page provides general information only and does not constitute personal financial advice. Policy features and definitions vary between insurers. Your Home Finance is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.