Critical Illness cover pays out a cash lump sum over a specific term upon the diagnosis of certain serious illnesses of which cancer, heart attack and stroke are some of the main ones. The leading providers cover a range of 40 plus specified illnesses and therefore there is much more likelihood of a claim when compared to traditional life assurance cover which is payable on death or early 
terminal illness diagnosis.
Critical Illness protection can be provided on a level basis if used for family cover or on a reducing cover basis if used in connection with a repayment mortgage or reducing loan. In this scenario you can chose the initial sum assured and the period of the plan.
