1. Back pain
A history of back trouble and pain can be perceived as a trivial
matter and not worth mentioning. However your clients must tell
us about it, as this can affect the terms we can offer, especially for
benefits that are payable due to incapacity from work and the
waiver of premium option (WoP). Exclusions to critical illness cover
for back trouble only, are sometimes necessary where there is a
history of this complaint.
2. Stress, anxiety and depression
Clients may be hesitant about disclosing or discussing these matters, but they are a major cause of disability claims, and therefore we need to know all the details. If they are reluctant to disclose information, they can supply the details with the application form on paper in a sealed envelope, or they can send it directly to our chief medical officer.
3. Height and weight inaccuracies
This is a common problem area where there can be discrepancies between the height and weight stated on the application form and reality. Accurate details are important to us.
4. Joint problems and arthritis
Joints, such as the knees and neck are put under a lot of pressure. Good functioning of joints is important to help your client carry out their job, especially if it is manual in nature.
5. Tests and investigations
When completing the application form, it is important that your client tells us of any tests, investigations or specialist referrals that they are waiting to have or may have had in the past. Please note that usually we cannot proceed with the underwriting until the outstanding tests, investigations or specialist referral has taken place and the results are available.
6. Smoking (including if your client has used any tobacco products in the last 12 months)
Smoking can have a huge effect on someone’s health, and is a factor in setting the premium. It’s important that your client tells us if they smoke, however light or occasional the smoking. They may have tried to give up and failed but they must be honest about their smoking status.
7. Alcohol consumption
On our application, we ask about past and present alcohol consumption and if the client has ever been advised to reduce their alcohol intake.
8. Raised blood pressure and cholesterol
It is common for a doctor or practice nurse to check a patient’s blood pressure and cholesterol. Sometimes if there is a temporary problem, this can be dealt with, either with or without treatment. Sometimes long term treatment will be required. The application form includes questions about blood pressure and cholesterol. It’s important that your client reads the questions carefully, and answer them accurately.
