Critical illness insurance, a complex type of coverage available globally for four decades, has failed to gain widespread appeal despite its potential value. Insurers worldwide are introducing various strategies to make it more attractive to consumers, but these changes are raising concerns about the core purpose of the insurance. 

In this Journal of Insurance Medicine article, Munich Re’s Dr. Tim Meagher examines the challenges facing critical illness insurance, explores the various approaches being taken to address these issues, and raises important questions about the future of this complex and often misunderstood type of coverage.