Drug use in Canada is widespread or non-existent, depending on what you define as a “drug”. Eleven percent of the Canadian population "has a drug or alcohol problem" according to a CBC survey, but this does not include people who use recreational drugs without "problem" . That number, especially when you include alcohol and cannabis, is much, much higher, and if you only include people who are addicted to classically defined illicit drugs, like crack and cocaine. # 39; heroine, the number is much, much lower.
In general, how insurance companies approach drug-related issues rests on two major questions: is the potential client using prescription drugs provided through the appropriate channels, or is they consuming drugs? drugs outside these channels, and therefore statistically vulnerable to certain responsibilities?
For the former, these questions are often discovered in background checks and medical questionnaires provided by insurance companies before developing or offering a policy. Naturally, some drugs have effects on a person's life expectancy and prospective quality of life, and others carry certain health risks, even when provided by a health professional. In these cases, an insurance company will take into account the medical issues treated by the drugs and the effects of the drugs themselves when developing a policy, but a policy can usually be provided. by most of the major health insurance providers.
For those who use illicit drugs, the options are generally more difficult. Usually, insurance companies are reluctant to provide policies, many are even reluctant to offer low cost options to people who smoke cigarettes.
Fortunately, some options are still available for drug users, especially those who use illicit drugs. Remember that many policies do not cover complications of illicit drug use and failure to disclose this information when asked may constitute insurance fraud, which can be a serious crime that includes heavy fines and possible jail time.
In general, illicit drug users have only one option when it comes to life insurance: streamlined life insurance policies that don't require medical questionnaires. This situation is changing as more and more insurance providers offer products specifically designed for the 'hard to insure' market. Simplified insurance plans often only require simple medical questions that don't include questions about drug use.
No medical life insurance policy vary widely from carrier to carrier, so it pays to research these plans before contacting them to compare rates and potential coverage. You can also ask your insurance broker to do an informal preliminary investigation before submitting a formal request. Informal preliminary inquiries are not binding and can give you an idea of whether your request would be approved as standard, denied or scored. Keep in mind that insurers may offer plans with first day coverage or with a two year waiting period depending on your situation.
If you have consumed or are using street drugs and need life insurance, it's important to discuss your options with an insurance broker who has your best interests in mind. With the right team behind you, the right policy can be found.
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