In today’s world, the financial impact of critical illnesses can be overwhelming. Treatments for conditions like cancer, heart attack, kidney failure, or organ transplants often come with hefty price tags, which could lead to financial distress. This is where critical illness insurance becomes a lifesaver, offering financial protection and peace of mind during life-threatening medical emergencies.
Critical illness insurance provides a lump sum payout when the policyholder is diagnosed with a covered condition, helping manage medical costs and supporting day-to-day expenses during recovery. In Kenya, various insurers offer tailored critical illness cover plans to meet different needs. Here’s an updated and comprehensive list of providers and the benefits they offer.
1. Britam – Critical Illness Cover
Britam’s critical illness cover ensures financial support in the event of life-threatening diagnoses such as:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Cancer
- Kidney failure
- Major organ transplant
- Dementia (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s), and more.
Key Features:
- Flexible payment plans: Monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually.
- Premiums can be paid through mobile money, direct debit, employer salary check-off, or cheques.
- Lump sum payout upon diagnosis of covered illnesses.
Contact Information:
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Phone: 0705 100 100
- Email: info@britam.com
2. NCBA Insurance – Critical Illness Cover
NCBA’s critical illness insurance covers a wide range of severe health conditions, including:
- Cancer
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Major organ transplant
- Motor neuron disease
- Kidney failure
Key Features:
- Premiums start from Ksh 1,000 per month.
- Covers policyholder, spouse, and children.
- Lump sum payout ranging from Ksh 1 million to Ksh 15 million.
Contact Information:
- Location: Mara Rd., Upper Hill, Nairobi
- Phone: +254 711 056 444 / +254 732 156 444
3. AIG Kenya – Critical Illness Insurance
AIG provides critical illness insurance that pays out upon diagnosis of covered conditions, such as:
- Cancer
- Stroke
- Kidney failure
- Major organ transplant
Key Features:
- Diagnosis benefits for listed illnesses during the policy period.
Contact Information:
- Location: Eden Square Complex, Chiromo Road, Nairobi
- Phone: 020 3676 000 / 0723 600 400
- Email: aigkenya@aig.com
4. ICEA LION – Cancer Insurance
ICEA LION focuses on cancer insurance, offering financial assistance for treatment and recovery.
Key Features:
- Premiums as low as Ksh 200 per month for a Ksh 1 million cover.
- Benefits include payouts for diagnosis, chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, relapse, and palliative care.
- Refund of premiums if no invasive cancer or benign brain tumor occurs.
Contact Information:
- Location: Riverside Park, Chiromo Road, Westlands
- Phone: 0719 071 999
- Email: contactcentre@icealion.com
5. Prudential Life – PRUCritical Care
PRUCritical Care provides financial relief during critical illness diagnoses for individuals and their spouses.
Key Features:
- Lump sum payout of Ksh 1 million to Ksh 15 million based on premiums.
- Additional death benefits can be purchased.
- Tax relief of up to 15% on premiums (maximum of Ksh 60,000 annually).
Contact Information:
- Location: Vienna Court, State House Crescent, Nairobi
- Phone: +254 719 075 000
- Email: customer.service@prudentiallife.co.ke
6. UAP Old Mutual – Severe Illness Cover
UAP Old Mutual offers financial security for critical illnesses, including:
- Cancer
- Stroke
- Kidney failure
- Dementia
- Connective tissue diseases
Key Features:
- Premiums start from Ksh 1,000.
- Lump sum payouts for diagnoses within the policy term.
- Minimum policy term of 10 years, up to age 65.
Contact Information:
- Location: UAP Old Mutual Tower, Upper Hill Road, Nairobi
- Phone: +254 711 065 000
- Email: uapinsurance@uap-group.com
Factors to Consider When Choosing Critical Illness Insurance
- Covered Illnesses: Review the list of conditions included in the policy.
- Premium Costs: Compare monthly or annual costs and payment flexibility.
- Payout Amounts: Ensure the sum assured meets your medical and financial needs.
- Additional Benefits: Look for add-ons such as death benefits, tax relief, or refunds for unused premiums.
- Waiting Period: Understand the waiting period before benefits are payable.
- Customer Support: Opt for a provider with a responsive support system for claims processing.
The Importance of Critical Illness Insurance in Kenya
With the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes in Kenya, having a critical illness cover is no longer a luxury but a necessity. According to the Ministry of Health, such diseases account for 27% of total deaths in Kenya annually. Without proper financial planning, managing these conditions can quickly drain savings, leaving families in financial turmoil.
By investing in a critical illness insurance policy, you safeguard yourself and your loved ones from financial strain, ensuring access to quality healthcare without compromising your financial stability.
Critical illness insurance is an essential safety net in today’s unpredictable world. As you review the options above, ensure you choose a provider that best aligns with your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Don’t wait for a medical emergency to secure your future—act now and protect what matters most.
Looking for more personalized advice on selecting the best critical illness insurance? Reach out to these providers today for a consultation or visit their websites to learn more about their offerings. Remember, health is wealth—start planning now!
