Critical Illness Insurance

Cancer and Critical Illness Insurance

"... a critical illness policy (also called a specified disease policy) provides hospital and medical benefits for other diseases in addition to cancer, such as heart disease, stroke and Alzheimer's disease."

"Since cancer and critical illness policies do differ in the benefits provided, be sure to read the contract carefully and understand exactly what benefits are being offered."

"Some cancer or critical illness policies will not pay benefits unless you are confined in the hospital, and some types of cancer or critical illness expenses may not be covered by a policy. Most cancer and critical illness policies will provide some coverage for:

Hospital room and board;

Treatment by a legally qualified physician;

Private duty nursing care while hospital confined;

Surgery and anesthesia;

X-ray, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other therapy procedures used in the treatment of cancer;

Licensed or professional ambulance service to and from the hospital;

Blood and blood plasma for transfusions;

Prescription drugs and medicines recognized by the Food and Drug Administration as medically effective -- usually applies only when received during a hospital confinement."

Illinois Division of Insurance