Lévis, Que.-based Desjardins Financial Security is offering a brand-new critical illness insurance product for employers who want to help their employees cope with the financial stress related to health problems.
According to Nathalie Laporte, vice president of group and business insurance product development and marketing at DFS, employers can choose from two plans that best suit their needs. “The basic plan covers the four most common critical illnesses, and the enhanced plan covers 31 illnesses — the most comprehensive coverage available.”
Subject to certain conditions, the new coverage includes:
> Cancer recurrence provision
Coverage does not automatically end once a benefit is paid. The insured receives an additional payment of the full benefit amount in the event of a cancer recurrence.
> Multiple benefit provision
An insured who has already suffered a critical illness and is later diagnosed with another covered critical illness may be eligible to receive another benefit.
> Additional payment
This new coverage also includes an additional payment of up to $25,000 for coronary angioplasty, prostate cancer, skin cancer or breast cancer.
> Conversion privilege
In addition to a waiver of premiums provision, employees also have a conversion privilege that allows them to maintain their coverage if they cease to be a member of their group plan.
The new DFS CI product is part of the Contact 360° offer, a comprehensive approach to workplace wellness and disability management. It includes prevention strategies, timely intervention, and support and guidance for employees to help them achieve a safe and sustainable return to work.