Definition Change Log

Vitality becomes the first UK provider to cover FND as a standalone condition. Pays at Tier 2 (50%) where symptoms persist for 12+ months and significantly impact daily activities. Previously only covered under TPD definitions.

Troponin threshold reduced from 10x to 4x the 99th percentile upper reference limit, aligning with latest cardiology guidelines. Estimated to increase valid claims by 12%.

L&G Extra now pays 25% of sum assured for less severe cardiomyopathy (NYHA Class II) that doesn't meet the full payment threshold. Full payment criteria unchanged.

Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) of the breast now explicitly covered at full payment. Previously subject to interpretation under "carcinoma in situ" exclusions. Affects approximately 8,000 UK diagnoses per year.

Guardian becomes the third provider (after Vitality and Royal London) to cover severe endometriosis. Requires Stage IV diagnosis via laparoscopy with documented impact on fertility or organ function.

MS definition now requires symptoms to persist for 28 days (previously 14 days) before claim payment. Scottish Widows states this aligns with clinical diagnostic standards and reduces disputed claims.

Stroke now pays at Tier 3 (100%) where neurological deficit persists for 24+ hours, regardless of whether symptoms become permanent. Previously required "permanent neurological deficit" which excluded many TIA-adjacent events.

Zurich Enhanced now covers CFS/ME at 50% payment where diagnosis is confirmed by a consultant and symptoms meet specified severity criteria for 24+ months. First mainstream provider to cover CFS.

Annual refresh adds 3 new conditions (Severe Asthma, Inflammatory Bowel Disease requiring surgery, Addison's Disease) and improves 8 existing definitions. Children's CI limit increased from £25,000 to £30,000.

Removed requirement for "response to dopaminergic therapy" from diagnosis criteria. Now requires consultant neurologist diagnosis only with documented motor symptoms. Aligns with NICE guidelines.

Now covers Stage 4 CKD (eGFR <30) in addition to Stage 5. Previously required dialysis or transplant listing. Partial payment of 50% for Stage 4; full payment for Stage 5 or dialysis.

Now requires formal cognitive testing (MMSE score ≤20 or equivalent) in addition to consultant diagnosis. Aegon states this reduces fraudulent claims while legitimate cases remain covered.

SIC Plus now covers severe psoriatic arthritis at Tier 2 (50%) where biologic therapy is required and disease significantly impacts mobility. Approximately 30,000 UK adults affected.

New £10,000 payment for Type 1 Diabetes diagnosed after policy start, regardless of complications. First provider to offer any payment for T1D diagnosis alone.

MND now pays immediately upon consultant neurologist diagnosis. Previously required 28-day survival period. L&G acknowledges the progressive and terminal nature of the condition.

Major refresh adds 7 new conditions including FND, Severe Psoriatic Arthritis, and Severe Chronic Pain Syndrome. Tier 1 (25%) payment threshold lowered across 12 existing conditions. Market-leading condition count maintained.

Scottish Widows' blanket clause now explicitly covers any condition requiring 14+ days hospitalisation or resulting in permanent disability, even if not named in the policy. Unique market position strengthened.

Free children's CI cover now extends to age 23 (previously 21) to cover children in full-time education. Sum assured remains at £25,000 (increasing to £30,000 from Jan 2026).

Zurich now requires TNM staging documentation for all cancer claims. Previously accepted clinical diagnosis alone for some cancers. Aligns with industry standard but may delay some claims.