Pre-existing Medical Conditions

Pre-existing Medical Conditions

Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions

Finding life insurance or protection cover when you have a pre-existing medical condition might feel like a challenge, but it can be possible, especially when you have the right support.

Whether you’re managing a long-term illness, have had treatment in the past, or are simply unsure what counts as a “pre-existing condition”, understanding your options is the first step.

At Kerr & Watson, we specialise in this process, offering tailored advice that focuses on your individual needs, not just your medical history.

What Is a Pre-existing Medical Condition?

A pre-existing medical condition is any illness, injury, or health issue that existed before you apply for insurance. This includes conditions you’ve been diagnosed with, ongoing symptoms, or even issues you’ve fully recovered from but received treatment for in the past.

Common examples include:

  • Diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
  • High blood pressure or cholesterol
  • Asthma or other respiratory conditions
  • Depression, anxiety or other mental health issues
  • Heart conditions
  • Cancer (current or in remission)
  • Obesity or eating disorders
  • Back pain or musculoskeletal issues

Even conditions you consider “minor” could still be flagged by insurers, depending on when they occurred and how they were treated. This is why full disclosure is so important during the application process.

Can You Still Get Life Insurance?

Having a pre-existing condition doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be declined. In fact, many people are able to get cover approved, often with standard terms or a small premium increase.

Insurers assess applications based on:

  • The type and severity of your condition
  • When you were diagnosed
  • Any treatment or medication you’re taking
  • Whether your condition is stable or has improved
  • Your overall health and lifestyle

In some cases, your policy may come with exclusions (such as not covering claims related to your condition) or a higher monthly cost. But often, with the right provider, cover can still be affordable and comprehensive.

At Kerr & Watson, we can approach the insurers that are more flexible with specific medical histories, helping you avoid unnecessary declines or delays.

What About Critical Illness or Income Protection?

Getting critical illness or income protection with a pre-existing condition can be more complex than life insurance, but it’s still possible in some cases.

  • Critical Illness Cover: This pays a lump sum if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness listed in the policy. Some pre-existing conditions may mean certain illnesses are excluded from your cover, but others may still be included.
  • Income Protection: This pays a regular income if you can’t work due to illness or injury. Insurers may limit claims related to your condition, or apply a longer deferred period, but you can still be protected for unrelated health issues.

Every insurer has their own stance on medical conditions, and this is where our advice makes all the difference. We’ll help you apply to providers that are most likely to offer terms suited to your specific situation.

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Covered

Here are some practical ways to increase your chances of getting the right protection:

  1. Be Honest on Your Application
    Never hide or downplay a condition. Insurers have access to medical reports, and inaccurate answers could void your policy later.
  2. Know Your Medical History
    Have a good understanding of your diagnoses, medications, and treatment history. This can speed up the application and improve your chances of accurate underwriting.
  3. Work With An Adviser
    Trying to apply on your own, especially through comparison sites, can result in rejections or unsuitable terms. An adviser like Kerr & Watson will guide you from the outset.
  4. Consider Alternative Policies
    Sometimes a simplified policy with fewer health questions (like guaranteed acceptance cover) may be an option though these often have lower payouts or waiting periods so professional advice should be taken.
  5. Stay Positive and Patient
    If you’re declined by one insurer, that doesn’t mean all providers will say no. Every insurer has different criteria. We help you look for the right match.

How Kerr & Watson Can Help

At Kerr & Watson, we understand that no two people are the same. That’s why our approach is based on listening, understanding, and matching you with a provider who sees more than just your medical record.

We work with a broad panel of providers, from mainstream insurers to specialist, which gives us more options to find the right fit for you.

Whether you’re looking to protect your mortgage, family, income or business, we’ll make sure your health history doesn’t stand in the way of the cover you deserve.

Conclusion

Living with a pre-existing medical condition doesn’t always mean you can’t get protection. It just means the process might require a little more care.

We’re ready to help you find life insurance, critical illness or income protection that gives you peace of mind.

Contact Kerr & Watson today to speak with a friendly adviser who understands your needs.

Useful Articles for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

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