What Is Critical Illness Neuromyopathy?

Critical illness myoneuropathy (CIPM) and critical illness polyneuropathy (CIP) are conditions affecting nerves and muscles that can develop in intensive care patients. They cause muscle weakness and sensory problems, often after severe illness, sepsis, or prolonged mechanical ventilation. Coverage by critical illness insurance varies by provider - some comprehensive policies include these conditions, but many do not. Check specific policy wording.

Learn more about what does ci cover in our detailed guide.

What is critical illness neuromyopathy?

Critical illness myoneuropathy (CIPM) is a condition affecting nerves and muscles that can develop in ICU patients. It causes muscle weakness and sensory problems, often after severe illness or sepsis.

What is critical illness polyneuropathy?

Critical illness polyneuropathy (CIP) is a nerve disorder that develops in intensive care patients. It causes weakness and reduced reflexes. It's related to CIPM but primarily affects nerves rather than muscles.

Is neuromyopathy covered by critical illness insurance?

Coverage varies by provider. Some comprehensive policies cover CIP/CIPM as part of extended illness definitions. Check your policy wording or ask your insurer for specific coverage details.

How common are these conditions?

CIP and CIPM can affect 25-50% of ICU patients who require mechanical ventilation for extended periods. They're increasingly recognised as significant complications of critical care.

Quick Answer

Is Critical Illness Neuromyopathy Covered by Insurance?

Last reviewed: December 2025

Reviewed by Jay Sabine – CeMAP Qualified – 29 years experience

Coverage varies. CIP/CIPM are ICU-related conditions causing muscle/nerve weakness. Some comprehensive policies cover them; many don't. Check specific policy wording.

Critical illness neuromyopathy refers to conditions that can develop during intensive care treatment. Understanding whether they're covered by your critical illness insurance requires checking the specific policy definitions.

Key Points

1CIPM = muscle and nerve condition
2CIP = primarily nerve disorder
3Develops in ICU patients
4Causes muscle weakness
5Coverage varies by provider
6Check policy definitions carefully

Eligibility Criteria

Must meet policy's specific definition
Severity requirements vary
Documentation of diagnosis required
May require permanent effects

Typical Timeframe

These conditions develop during ICU stay. If covered, claims assessed after diagnosis confirmation and meeting definition requirements.

Next Steps

1Check your current policy wording
2Ask insurer about CIP/CIPM coverage
3Compare comprehensive policies
4Consider policies with wider definitions
5Speak to protection adviser

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Is Critical Illness Neuromyopathy Covered by Insurance?

Key Points

Eligibility Criteria

Typical Timeframe

Next Steps

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