Heart Attack, or myocardial infarction, is one of the “Big 4” conditions for trauma policies. That is, one of the conditions that result in the highest number of claims. Claims for heart attack are far more prevalent for men than women. GenRe research revealed that at an industry level, 17% of male trauma claims were for heart attack, compared with less than 2% for women.
The Definition
Death of heart muscle caused by inadequate blood supply, evidenced by typical rise and/or fall of cardiac biomarker blood tests with at least one of the following:
- Acute cardiac symptoms and signs consistent with a heart attack,
- New serial electrocardiograph changes associated with myocardial infarction, or
- Imaging evidence of new loss of viable myocardium or new regional wall motion
Glossary
Rise and/or fall of cardiac biomarkers generally refers to troponin. This is a protein that is released into the blood stream when there is death of heart muscle. It is measured by blood tests. When the protein is released into the blood stream there is a rise in the level, and then it will fall away over the following days and weeks.
ECG (electrocardiogram) refers to a test measuring the electrical activity of the heart. It can measure the speed of the heart beat and any irregularities in the rhythm, which may indicate damage to the heart.
Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction is a measurement of how much blood is being pumped out of the left ventricle into the body.
FAQs
How do I ensure that the policy I am looking to purchase or currently own compares to others in the market?
Always look for a “A” rated policy by independent researchers, IRESS Risk Researcher. The IRESS A rating means the definition is considered the best in the market by the research house. Majority of Financial Adviser will be able to provide this research.
Some insurers provide a partial benefit for Heart Attack.
The partial heart attack definition used within the market is for heart attacks which would normally be covered by the full claim benefit under the Protection Plans definition. All insurers using a partial payment for heart attack are B rated by IRESS Risk Researcher.
Disclaimer
This information was prepared by BT Financial Group Limited (ABN 63 002 916 458) ‘BT’ . It is general information only and should not be relied upon as complete product research. The information is factual in nature and has not considered the specific circumstances of any individual and should not be regarded as specific advice. Policy Holders should refer to their relevant life company policy documents for further clarification.