Can I get critical illness cover with HIV?
Critical illness cover for people living with HIV has improved significantly in recent years. Many leading UK insurers now offer CIC to HIV-positive applicants on stable treatment (typically antiretroviral therapy) with an undetectable viral load and a healthy CD4 count. Premiums may be loaded, or specific HIV-related conditions may be excluded, but cover for cancer, heart attack, stroke, and other specified conditions is available. This is a fast-evolving area — comparing the whole market with a specialist broker gives the best outcome.
How do insurers assess HIV?
Insurers look at when you were diagnosed, how well controlled the condition is, your treatment, and any related complications. Terms vary significantly between providers — whole-of-market comparison is essential.
What options are available?
- Standard terms — if your condition is well-controlled with no complications
- Rated premium — higher premium reflecting additional risk, full cover intact
- Exclusion — the condition excluded, all other conditions still covered
Even with an exclusion, CIC is still valuable
An exclusion only applies to claims related to the excluded condition. You remain fully covered for cancer, heart attack, stroke, and all other specified conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on severity and control. Compare the whole market to find the most competitive terms for your profile.
Often yes — even with an exclusion, you're still covered for cancer, heart attack, stroke, and 30+ other serious conditions.