I have a client with HIV. His medication keeps the condition under control, but it's the first case I've ever dealt with of this type. What is the situation? He is looking for the full suite of protection and I know things have improved here, but what issues am I likely to face?
Mike Weedon, Life Cover For All
HIV is one of the fastest growing serious health conditions in the UK and 21% of adults accessing HIV care in the UK are over 50.
This could be a very sensitive case to deal with, so having an understanding on the virus may make you both feel at ease.
Being realistic is key and while critical illness and income protection may not be offered, life insurance may well be available.
Perceptions of the disease are not always correct and although it is a major illness, treatment continues to develop and some insurers are prepared to offer cover, albeit with a shortened term dependent on the diagnosis and treatment.
In 2009, PruProtect became the first mainstream insurer to offer life cover to those with HIV, offering £250,000 for a maximum term of ten years.
This still tends to be the most available, with others providing £100,000 and a ten-year term.
Individual consideration is given to each case and underwriters will require the client to have no other significant health or psychological problems, not be a drug user and comply with their medication.
Two key pieces of information required are the CD4 count and the Viral Load count.
Generally, the CD4 Count needs to be more than 200 (the higher, the better) while the viral count needs to be less than 100,000 (the lower the better).
The situation has improved and while it will still be a sensitive discussion, you may now be able to obtain some cover, rather than the preconceived ‘decline' as in the past.
Phil Jeynes, PruProtect
For some time now, insurers have been willing to accept life insurance applications on those living with HIV. With the advent of modern treatments, the mortality statistics have shown a vast improvement.
PruProtect is one of those companies that have led the way in this field and is regarded as being experts in providing cover for those who meet the criteria.
The applicant would be asked to complete a questionnaire and, at the same time, the insurance company would obtain medical reports and blood tests from the GP or other attending physicians.
Specialist nurses are employed to take blood from the applicant should the need arise, just like in similar insurance circumstances.Insurer criteria varies, but there are similarities.
