Rare disease is absent from list in life insurance policy

March 2022

Donald* suffers a very rare terminal medical condition. He is being treated with chemotherapy.

Donald opened a claim for payment from his life insurer. His insurance company refused the claim because his rare disease was not specifically listed in the list of diseases covered by their policy.

Donald felt the insurance company was avoiding making payment based on a technicality. His condition was terminal, and treatment is the same as for other listed conditions in the policy.

Donald made a complaint of disability discrimination with ADNSW.

During ADNSW’s investigation, the insurer reviewed the claim. Upon receiving further supporting information, they approved the payment to Donald, resolving the complaint.

*Name has been changed to protect the privacy of the individual.