Key Differences between Older and Newer Critical Illness Policies

Example of older Critical Illness (CI) plan with a list of 30 illnesses

Example of current Critical Illness (CI) plan with a list of 36 illnesses

In 2009, 6 additional core critical illnesses were included, offering more comprehensive coverage compared to policies issued from 2000 to 2008.

If your policy was purchased before 2009, it may lack basic Critical Illness coverage, let alone Early Critical Illness coverage.

Here are the 6 critical illnesses that are not covered in the older policies,

1) Progressive Scleroderma

LIA Definition - A systemic collagen-vascular disease causing progressive diffuse fibrosis in the skin, blood vessels and visceral organs.

2) Loss of Independent Existence

LIA Definition - A condition as a result of a disease, illness or injury whereby the Life Assured is unable to perform (whether aided or unaided) at least 3 of the 6 "Activities of Daily Living", for a continuous period of 6 months.

3) Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Lupus Nephritis

LIA Definition - The unequivocal diagnosis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) based on recognised diagnostic criteria and supported with clinical and laboratory evidence.

In respect of this contract, systemic lupus erythematosus will be restricted to those forms of systemic lupus erythematosus which involve the kidneys (Class III to Class VI Lupus Nephritis, established by renal biopsy, and in accordance with the RPS/ISN classification system).

4) Apallic Syndrome (Persistent Vegetative State)

LIA Definition - Universal necrosis of the brain cortex with the brainstem intact.

5) Poliomyelytis

LIA Definition - Poliovirus is identified as the cause, with paralysis of the limb muscles or respiratory muscles must be present and persist for at least 3 months.

6) Other Serious Coronary Artery Damage

LIA Definition - The narrowing of the lumen of at least one coronary artery by a minimum of 75% and of two others by a minimum of 60%, as proven by invasive coronary angiography, regardless of whether or not any form of coronary artery surgery has been performed.

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As medical advancements continue, the LIA regularly reviews its policies and procedures to stay current. It's recommended to review individual insurance policies periodically, as they may become outdated with these updates.