Pulmonary Embolism

A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot travels in the bloodstream (embolus) and obstructs a branch of the pulmonary artery so that the portion of the lung it supplies loses its blood supply with the resultant tissue death. The size and location of the embolus affects the severity and results can range from slight chest discomfort to sudden death. In the majority of cases, a pulmonary embolism is a complication of thrombophlebitis in a deep vein in the lower extremities.

In deep vein thrombosis (DVT), blood clots form in the veins, most often in the legs or pelvis. A portion of the thrombus then breaks loose and travels to the lung where it becomes entrapped obstructing the blood flow. A blood clot or thrombus can form when the blood flow is restricted and slows down. This can happen after surgeries requiring prolonged bed rest or during long trips by car or aeroplane. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain that gets worse with deep breathing and coughing. Treatment consists of anticoagulant therapy to prevent further clotting and sometimes other agents to try and break down the clot. It is important to establish the reason behind the initial episode as recurrences may occur.

What information should my client provide?

Your customer should complete General medical disclosure fast-track questionnaire 

Likely acceptance terms

Life cover, specified illness cover
For a single episode with no recurrences of underlying disease - normal rates; otherwise +50% up.

Income protection
For a single episode with no recurrences of underlying disease - postpone within six months and normal rates/+50% thereafter.
If there has been more than one attack - postpone within one year, +50% up thereafter.

Hospital cash cover, accident cover, contribution cover
For a single episode with no recurrences of underlying disease - normal rates.

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