Protection provider Aegon has confirmed it will resume requests for medical evidence for protection applications.
The provider will request GP reports where they are routinely required for life and critical illness cover. As face-to-face medical examinations are currently not possible, Aegon will also request a GP report instead, where this is the only routine requirement.
Simon Jacobs, head of underwriting and claims at Aegon, said: “Understandably advisers are very concerned about the delays caused to new protection applications as a result of the coronavirus and we have heard their concerns.
“We temporarily stopped requesting medical evidence from GPs at the end of March to help protect our NHS during this global pandemic. We didn’t want to contribute to the growing pressure on the NHS during the peak of the coronavirus outbreak. As the situation has developed, we are more comfortable to request medical evidence again.”
Additionally, on the subject of paying claims during the pandemic, Mr Jacobs said: “Paying claims is one of the most important things we do – providing people with a financial safety net when they need it most. Paying claims during a global pandemic is no different.
"We continue to pay claims as quickly as possible, helping a number of customers and their families during this difficult time.”
Rob May, director at Risk Assured, said: "Although Covid-19 has had a devastating impact on a significant number of families, I am pleased to see such positive news around the payment of claims and, particularly, the payment of claims related to Covid-19 as reported by some insurers this week.”
Earlier this week LV said it had paid out more than £2.5m in coronavirus-related income protection and death claims to nearly 300 individuals and families.
Mr May added: ”Protection insurance policies are there to provide cover for unexpected events such as Covid-19 and, ultimately, the ability to claim is the most important element of any insurance policy."
chloe.cheung@ft.com
