Demand for support for serious conditions increase rapidly over the past two years: support for stroke cases is up 113%; support for people with cancer is up 42%; and support for cardiac conditions has increased by 25%.*

Statistics go some way in explaining this increased demand: NHS data shows a rise in stroke admissions over a 20-year period with more 50-59s being affected than ever before; studies also show a worrying puzzle of increases in early onset cancer in under 50s; and there are now 423,245 people waiting for routine cardiac care, up from 420,589 in November 2024.

However, the rise in demand for its support, is not only down to this need but also because critical illness insurance providers are increasingly looking to give their clients, both insured via workplace policies and directly, the extra support they require. Employers are recognising that while there is no better place for emergency treatment than the NHS, practical and emotional support services are often needed afterwards to help people cope when their lives take a difficult turn.

Types of support that are needed during and after the diagnosis of a serious condition

Serious conditions can leave people with a variety of physical impairments and emotional issues, which can have a significant impact on the lives of the individual and their families Practical support may be required during the critical recovery stage. Emotional support is often highly valued to help individuals process their situation. And medical support is also needed to understand a diagnosis, prognosis and medication.

Christine Husbands, commercial director, RedArc said: “Support needs to get the individual back on their feet to get on with their lives – whatever shape that takes, perhaps a return to work, return to social life, or most importantly a return to feeling like themselves again. No-one wants to be beholden to their illness and it’s good to see employers and insurers recognising this and helping their clients adapt to their new normal.”

Traditionally, critical illness providers and those employers who offer group critical illness have primarily focussed on promoting the financial benefits of the products. However, the increase in people using RedArc support reflects how much more holistic the available support is now, going beyond a financial payout, and including care for physical and emotional health too. It’s also a recognition of how important such support is for serious illnesses.

Christine Husbands concluded: “We’re pleased that so many of our insurance clients are actively promoting our services to their clients to help them and their families deal with a serious condition. Having a clinical professional on hand helps them to better cope with their health journey, and by being by their side, also leaves them feeling positively disposed to the employer and insurer.”

*Research from RedArc