Dispute over illness cover

Consumers who are enticed by no claims discount offers on critical illness packages could count the cost, a spokesperson for private healthcare provider Bupa has commented.

Fiona Harris, head of personal markets for the group's health insurance arm, says that no claims discounts will lead to premiums being raised following a claim on a medical illness package.

She added: "Managing your health is about seeking early diagnosis, not avoiding making a claim.

"Finding out what is wrong with you as quickly as possible can make a big difference to your recovery and long-term health."

Ms Harris also contended that while a number of critical illness packages offer discounts of up to 50 per cent, "discounts off initial premiums will come back to bite you when you make a claim with hefty increases in premiums".

The comments follow a partnership between PruHealth and pharmaceutical retailer Boots which will see critical illness packages having initial no claims discount benefits.

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