Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune conditions occur when the body's immune system attacks its own cells, tissues, or organs. They are often chronic, can fluctuate between flare-ups and remission, and frequently emerge during a person's working years.

Common examples include multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, type 1 diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease. The financial implications run well beyond medical bills because flare-ups and progression often interrupt work and income.

From an insurance perspective, autoimmune conditions intersect with several cover types. Trauma (critical illness) cover may list some severe autoimmune conditions in the policy schedule. Income protection becomes important when symptoms cause time off work. TPD cover is relevant when long-term progression makes returning to work unlikely.

Underwriting outcomes vary significantly between insurers: what one rates as standard, another may decline or load. If you have an autoimmune diagnosis, comparing insurer appetite across the panel is more efficient than going direct to one insurer.

The pages below break down individual autoimmune conditions with cost data drawn from Zurich's Cost of Care research. The information is general and not a personal recommendation. To explore your options, generate an indicative quote or talk to an adviser.