What Does Critical Illness Insurance Cover?

Critical illness insurance covers serious conditions including cancer (65% of claims), heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, major organ transplants, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and 40-60+ more conditions. Exclusions include pre-existing conditions, early-stage cancers, and conditions not meeting policy definitions. Cancer, heart attack, and stroke account for over 90% of all successful claims.

Yes, cancer is the most common claim (65%). However, early-stage cancers like carcinoma in situ may not be fully covered. Check your policy's cancer definition carefully.

What about heart attacks and strokes?

Yes, heart attacks and strokes are core conditions covered by all policies. Combined with cancer, they account for over 90% of all claims.

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

Quick Answer

What Conditions Does Critical Illness Cover?

Last reviewed: December 2025

Reviewed by Jay Sabine – CeMAP Qualified – 29 years experience

Core conditions: cancer, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, organ transplants + 40-60 more. Cancer = 65% of claims. Check definitions - not all stages/types qualify.

Critical illness insurance covers a defined list of serious medical conditions. Understanding exactly what's covered - and how conditions are defined - is essential when choosing a policy.

Key Points

1Cancer: 65% of all claims
2Heart attack and stroke: 15-20%
340-60+ conditions typically covered
4Definitions matter more than count
5Pre-existing conditions excluded
6Check policy wording carefully

Eligibility Criteria

Diagnosis must meet policy definition
Condition after policy starts
Survival period applies
Must be within policy term

Typical Timeframe

Claims assessed against specific policy definitions. Payouts typically 4-8 weeks after diagnosis.

Next Steps

1Review conditions important to you
2Compare definitions between providers
3Ask about partial payments
4Get quotes from multiple providers
5Speak to an adviser

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What Conditions Does Critical Illness Cover?

Key Points

Eligibility Criteria

Typical Timeframe

Next Steps

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What conditions does critical illness cover?

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