I've noticed CI coverage are presented differently across insurers. Does each insurer have the right to pick and choose which CI they want to cover, instead of following the standard definition set by Life Insurer Association?

Right now, Critical illness definition is et by Life Insurance Association and should be coherent across insurers.

However, come AUG 2020, there will be a change in Critical illness definitions which eliminates grey areas and makes it harder to make a claim.

PROS:

1. Those suffering from Thalassaemia Major or Haemophilia can now get covered under the HIV CI condition.

2. Viral Encephalitis: Previously, viral infection has to be the cause for it. Now, the scope is expanded to include all causes, not just a viral infection.

CONS:

1. Stricter, more exclusions for Benign Brain Tumor, Coma, Stroke, Aplastic Anaemia, Heart Attack, and Major Cancers among other things.

2. More requirements set up for claims to be made. E.g, Other serious coronary artery diseases now need invasive procedures to confirm it. Viral Encephalitis, Poliomyelitis all need to confirm diagnostic tests.

3. The addition of 'irreversible' to deafness, blindness, aplastic anaemia.

• This means such diseases are harder to claim now, as you have to prove that it is both chronic and irreversible.

If you're looking for Critical illness coverage, I am able to provide you with the quotation from multiple providers which gives you more options to choose from,

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Cheers!

Hi CH,

The 37 CI that all insurers cover should be the same, as those are based on the definition from LIA. However as you have also done your research, you would realise that each insurer tends to more than 37, like in Prudential's case 56, and in AIA 175.

But if you actually look in depth, those other coverages tend to be a bit more specific and are usually a subset from the currrent 37. However if you are talking about early CI, then it's a different case all together, as early CI is a broader aspect, and insurers do tend to be more picky in that regard.

But all claims are subject to what the insurer decides, and your adviser should be the one who appeals for you as needed