As the UK continues to lift lockdown restrictions, insurance providers are starting to remove their changes to life insurance applications. What’s changing?
This does not constitute advice and advice should be sought in all instances before acting on it.
Some of the changes insurance providers made as a result of the outbreak, such as additional underwriting questions, remote screenings, and delayed applications may soon revert back to normal.
Aviva paving the way
Aviva is one of the first insurers to attempt a return to normal, with caveats, of course.
From 1st June, nurse screenings and doctor examinations resumed for individual protection customers.
Protocols and procedures designed to reduce the likelihood of spreading the virus have been put in place in order to ensure the safety of both medical professionals and patients in these in-person screenings.
Staff will be trained on the latest guidelines related to COVID-19, before booking appointments, customers will be pre-screened, personal protective equipment (PPE) is to be worn, and all equipment is required to be cleaned and disinfected.
This is, of course, only in instances where medical screenings are necessary. In the review stage, applications are still being scrutinized to determine if acceptance of terms can be offered without a screening. Only if alternative evidence is unavailable will a medical screening be compulsory. Application questions are still required and should you answer positively to anything, your application will remain delayed.
The application questions related to COVID-19 for Aviva’s individual protection underwriting are currently as follows:
- Are you currently experiencing symptoms of a cough, a high temperature or fever, breathing difficulties or any other symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19); or
- Have you tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19); or
- Are you self-isolating due to symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19); or
- Have you been advised to self-isolate for any other reason, or are you shielding; or
- Have you had contact with someone who’s been confirmed or suspected to have coronavirus?
We’re not back to ‘normal’ yet
As ever, during this pandemic, the situation is constantly changing. It’s possible there might be a need to revert back to stricter operating procedures, so it’s important to ensure you’re up to date on the latest news if you plan to apply for any protection policies.
Will other insurers follow Aviva’s lead? Depending on the success of this new endeavour, more providers could quite feasibly attempt the same cautious return to in-person screenings, as well.
We’ll talk you through your life insurance options
If you have any questions about securing or upgrading a personal protection policy at this time, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re available to speak around your schedule and when it’s convenient for you.
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