Insurer devises A.I.D.S. cover

Press, 8 June 1989, Page 30

Insurer devises A.I.D.S. cover

By

JOANNA

SLAUGHTER

The life insurance industry's response to the uncertain menace of A.I.D.S. has been reactive rather than proactive. Although there has been no great move within pension schemes to reconsider the underwriting requirements for different benefits, the cost of life insurance protection policies has risen sharply for specific policyholders. Some companies have even excluded all A.I.D.S. claims on new term, whole life, mortgage protection and permanent health cover policies. Now a positive move has been made. Overseas Health and Medical Services has devised a contract which specifically covers human immunodeficiency virus/A.I.D.S. infection. The policy is placed in the Lloyd’s market through Evans-Lombe, Ashton and Company. The insurance protects those working outside their countries of origin.

The first to benefit are member companies of the information and advisory service, Employment Conditions Abroad. ECA serves 500 companies based in 20 countries and operating in 200. But Overseas Health and Medical wants to make similar protection available to police, fire and ambulance authorities. The protection extends to those who fall ill as a result of the accidental contraction of H.1.V., for example through medical treatment in non-sterile conditions, or from blood transfusions. The policy is divided into two parts. First, up to £25,000 will be paid to an employer to cover the repatriation of affected employees and their families. A second payment of £25,000 (together with any part of the first payment not used) will be made to the individual or his or her legal representatives. The premium is £5O a year ( £75 for a family) Copyright The “Observer”