How Insurers Define Heart Attack
Most UK CIC policies define a heart attack as the death of heart muscle due to blocked blood supply, confirmed by:
- Characteristic rise and fall in cardiac enzymes (troponin)
- ECG changes consistent with MI
- Symptoms consistent with myocardial infarction
What About Angina?
Stable angina is generally not covered under standard CIC policies. Some premium policies include coronary artery disease requiring surgery (bypass or stent) as a separate covered condition.
Heart Attack Claims by Age
Heart attacks are most common in men over 50 and women over 60. However, heart disease is the UK’s biggest killer and affects all ages.
Survival Rates and CIC
Modern medical care means the majority of heart attack victims survive. CIC pays out after a heart attack – you do not need to die. The lump sum covers:
- Cardiac rehabilitation costs
- Private follow-up care
- Mortgage/bills while recovering
- Home adaptations if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Most significant heart attacks: covered. Minor events may only receive partial payment.
Stable angina: usually not covered. Surgery for coronary disease (bypass/stent): sometimes.