What Does Critical Illness Insurance Cover?

Critical illness insurance covers serious medical conditions including cancer, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, major organ transplants, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and 40-60+ other conditions. Cancer accounts for 65% of claims. Exclusions include pre-existing conditions, early-stage cancers, and conditions not meeting policy definitions. Always check the specific wording of your policy.

Critical illness conditions list

Learn more about critical illness conditions list in our detailed guide.

Critical illness cover guide

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Is critical illness worth it?

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What conditions are covered by critical illness insurance?

Core conditions include cancer, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, major organ transplants, MS, Parkinson's, and motor neurone disease. Most policies cover 40-60+ conditions in total.

Is cancer covered by critical illness?

Yes, cancer is the most claimed condition (65% of claims). However, early-stage cancers like carcinoma in situ (CIS) may not be covered or may receive partial payment. Check definitions carefully.

What is NOT covered by critical illness insurance?

Exclusions typically include pre-existing conditions, early-stage cancers, conditions during waiting period (14-90 days), self-inflicted injuries, and conditions not meeting the policy's specific definition.

Does the number of conditions matter?

Quality matters more than quantity. A policy with clear, generous definitions for 45 conditions may pay out more often than one with strict definitions for 100 conditions.

Quick Answer

What Is Covered by Critical Illness Insurance?

Last reviewed: December 2025

Reviewed by Jay Sabine – CeMAP Qualified – 29 years experience

Core coverage: cancer, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, organ transplants, MS, Parkinson's + 40-60 more conditions. Cancer = 65% of claims. Check definitions - not all conditions qualify.

Critical illness insurance covers a defined list of serious medical conditions. The exact conditions and definitions vary between providers. Understanding what's covered (and what's not) is crucial when choosing a policy.

Key Points

1Cancer: 65% of all claims
2Heart attack and stroke: 15-20% of claims
3Most policies cover 40-60+ conditions
4Definitions matter more than condition count
5Pre-existing conditions excluded
6Check specific policy wording

Eligibility Criteria

Diagnosis must meet exact policy definition
Condition must occur after policy starts
Survival period applies (usually 14 days)
Must be within policy term

Typical Timeframe

Claims assessed against policy definitions. Payout typically 4-8 weeks after confirmation.

Next Steps

1Review conditions that matter to you
2Compare definitions between providers
3Ask about partial payments for early-stage
4Get quotes from multiple insurers
5Speak to a protection adviser

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Coverage: Key Facts

What Is Covered by Critical Illness Insurance?

Key Points

Eligibility Criteria

Typical Timeframe

Next Steps

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