Can I get Life Insurance if I have Multifocal motor neuropathy?
Our client
A 44-year-old lady approached us to help her arrange vital life insurance. She needed a policy in place to protect her mortgage if she were to pass away within 29 years.
She told us that she had been diagnosed with Multifocal Motor Neuropathy which affects a person’s motor nerves.
What is Multifocal Motor Neuropathy?
Multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) is rare neuropathy damage to the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. It is characterized by progressive, asymmetric muscle weakness and atrophy (wasting).
Signs and symptoms may include:
- Weakness in the hands and lower arms
- Cramping
- Involuntary contractions or twitching
- Wrist drop or foot drop
- Atrophy of affected muscles
According to the NHS, it’s estimated that almost 1 in 10 people aged 55 or over in the UK are affected by peripheral neuropathy (April 2019).
Before seeking our advice she had applied to three insurers directly. They, unfortunately, declined her applications. After discussing her situation, we were confident that we would be able to help her secure an offer of cover We did our research and helped her make an application to a leading insurer.
Our process and advice
At Future Proof, we have access to specialist insurance companies who don’t deal directly with the public. These companies offer more specialised policies, designed to provide cover where other major providers can’t.
Our research process involves us contacting many insurers to find out the best possible outcome for our clients. Which avoids any nasty shocks later on during the underwriting process.
Would the insurer add a ‘loading’ to their standard premium? (this is an additional sum charged on top of their standard monthly premium to reflect their additional risk). Or, exclude a condition?
Might they decline the application? We want to avoid wasting time by making applications which may be declined.
We have up to date knowledge of the ever-changing landscape of underwriting for all providers in the UK. We are committed to thorough research so that you don’t have to. What’s more, our advice comes at no obligation and with no hidden costs. You don’t pay us directly but we do get paid by the insurer if you decide to start a policy with them.
The Outcome
Once the insurer received a report from her GP they also declined her application. This surprised us as we had completed thorough research before recommending this particular insurer.
Unfortunately, Multifocal Motor Neuropathy is notoriously difficult to diagnose. Some insurers take the view that it is easier to decline an application than develop a good understanding of the condition. Especially a rare one, before making a decision.
We completed further research and recommended an insurer who said (subject to them obtaining their own report) that they would possibly offer her cover. Albeit with a loading of 50%. We also sent them a copy of our client’s latest medical report from her Consultant.
Our client was happy to apply on this basis an a few weeks later the offer of terms was issued exactly in line with our expectations. We helped our client to secure a decreasing life or earlier terminal illness policy with an initial sum assured of £212,500, over a term of 29 years for a monthly premium of £32.28.
The policy is now in force, and our client was thrilled – especially as her three previous applications had been declined.
Please note that any premiums mentioned are indicative only and based on this specific case study/ example, which is shown for information purposes only. Your own circumstances will determine whether the amount payable is more or less than the figure quoted.
All our case studies are based on actual client scenarios, many of which pre-date 2020. We are confident that the acceptance decision made by the insurers would still be offered, although it is likely that the rates will have changed, your own circumstances will determine whether what amount will be payable by you and would be fully discussed with you before any plan is implemented.
Client Ref: 106983675
Next steps
Whilst you are welcome to get a quote online, we would recommend you speak to one of our advisers.
Any quote that your adviser provides you with will take into account your circumstances and medical history, as well as your budget!
An online quote is just that – a quote – it isn’t a definite offer of cover. What really matters is the premium you are offered, after your application has been assessed.
Call Freephone 0800 644 4468 – Monday to Thursday from 09.00 to 19.00 and on Friday between 09.00 and 17.00.
Call me backPlease feel free to read our Independent client reviews, or read about the team at Future Proof
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Take a look at our handy guides ‘What Cover is Right for me?’
Do you suffer from a medical condition and concerned you can’t secure Life Insurance? Please view our ‘Medical Guides’ for further information.
Whilst we will make every endeavour to help someone to arrange insurance, there is no guarantee of success. All applications are subject to underwriting.
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