A GUIDE TO CRITICAL ILLNESS INSURANCE
10
How are conditions defined?
Since 2008, the CLHIA has maintained critical illness benchmark definitions. These
provide consistency for the insurance industry in offering standard definitions for a given
policy. The definitions are intended to assist consumers, agents, and employers with a
clear understanding of what type of coverage is available. They are updated every five
years or so. However, it is not mandatory for insurers to adopt the most recent version.
While most insurance companies in Canada have adopted some version of CLHIA's
benchmark definitions, the language may vary.
WHAT ILLNESSES DOES CRITICAL
ILLNESS INSURANCE COVER?
Tip: It is important to review your policy for the definitions of the covered conditions.
Your diagnosis must meet the definition of the critical illness as defined in your
policy to receive payment.
