Gallstones

The gallbladder serves as a store for bile from the liver. It concentrates the bile which is then passed on to the duodenum through ducts to aid in the process of digestion of food. Stones can form in the gallbladder or ducts composed of crystals or bile salts (cholelithiasis). They are often symptomless but if they become lodged in the bile duct blocking it, can cause severe pain. Complications can occur including damage to the liver. Stones are sometimes treated by laser i.e. where stones are fragmented and the need for surgery is eliminated. Another form of treatment is surgery - cholecystectomy - where the stones and gallbladder are removed, this is usually curative.

What information should my client provide?

Your customer should complete the General medical disclosure fast-track questionnaire .

Likely acceptance terms

Life cover, specified illness cover
Normal rates; if attacks are recurrent, an extra loading may apply.

Income protection
Normal rates after successful surgery, assuming there have been no complications; otherwise an exclusion may apply.

Hospital cash cover, accident cover, contribution cover
Generally normal rates; decline if attacks are current or compliations persist.

Please note that likely acceptance terms are indicative only and cases are subject to full underwriting.