Does CIC pay out for a diabetes diagnosis?
No — a diagnosis of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes itself does not trigger a critical illness payout. Diabetes is not typically included in the list of specified conditions covered by standard CIC policies.
See cover from Aviva, L&G, Vitality, Royal London, Zurich and more — side by side, your exact profile.
Get a Free Quote →What about diabetes complications?
While diabetes itself is not covered, serious complications of diabetes may trigger a claim. For example:
- Stroke — covered by most CIC policies; diabetes increases stroke risk
- Heart attack — covered; people with diabetes have a higher cardiac risk
- Kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant — covered by most policies
- Loss of a limb — covered under "loss of limb" definitions in some policies
- Blindness — covered under "loss of sight" definitions
Can I get CIC if I have diabetes?
Yes — many people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes can get critical illness cover, though terms vary by insurer. Well-controlled diabetes often results in near-standard terms or a small loading. Poorly controlled diabetes or associated complications may result in higher premiums or exclusions. See: Critical illness cover for diabetics.
Is income protection a better fit?
For people with diabetes who are concerned about being unable to work due to their condition or its complications, income protection may be more directly useful — it pays monthly if you can't work, for any health reason (subject to any pre-existing condition exclusions).
Frequently Asked Questions
No — Type 2 diabetes is not a specified condition under standard UK critical illness policies. However, complications of diabetes (stroke, heart attack, kidney failure) are covered.
Yes — always. Failure to disclose diabetes is non-disclosure and can void your policy. Your insurer will ask about it on the application form.