HSBC Life (UK) has expanded its critical illness cover to Type 2 diabetic customers without the need for NHS records.
Those with Type 2 diabetes can apply for critical illness cover by attending an independent nurse medical screening, the results of which will be assessed digitally within three days. The screening will include a blood test, foot pulse and a discussion of the applicant’s diabetic history.
As many as 4.3 million people in the UK live with this condition, with 90% of those diagnosed with diabetes suffering from Type 2, and 8% with Type 1.
HSBC Life said it was able to offer cover due to its Enhanced Digital Underwriting process, which enables medical screening requests to be sent and received back automatically from the group’s medical screening provider Square Health.
To receive cover, diabetic customers will need to be non-smokers with no diabetic complications who are managing their conditions. Premiums can be loaded up to a maximum of 150%.
Successful applicants will also receive HSBC Life’s Value Added Benefits, which includes prescription services, second medical opinions, unlimited remote GP appointments, physiotherapy, mental health support and an annual health MOT, including a Diabetics HbA1c risk assessment.
Jen Carhart, head of underwriting and claims at HSBC Life, said: “We are really proud to have worked with our partners, UnderwriteMe and Square Health to introduce this unique approach and open up such a vital protection product for a group of customers historically excluded by the industry from Critical Illness. To be able to realise this without further burden on the NHS and continue to build on digital innovation is a testament to how the world of Underwriting is evolving to support customers and their needs.”
