Heart & Cardiovascular Conditions

Heart and cardiovascular conditions remain among the leading causes of illness, disability, and death in Australia. The category covers heart attack, stroke, coronary artery disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, valvular disease, and congenital heart conditions.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) consistently reports cardiovascular disease as one of the top causes of death and burden of disease nationally. Some events are sudden and life-changing; others develop gradually and require long-term management. Both patterns have significant financial consequences.

Cardiovascular conditions are among the most commonly claimed categories under trauma cover, where heart attack, stroke, and coronary artery bypass surgery are typically listed. Income protection responds when an event leaves you unable to work during recovery. TPD cover is relevant where the long-term outcome means returning to work is no longer realistic.

Pre-existing cardiovascular history affects new applications. Insurers take different approaches to high blood pressure, raised cholesterol, family history, and prior events, so disclosure is critical to avoid claim disputes later.

The pages below break down individual cardiovascular conditions with cost data drawn from Zurich's Cost of Care research. The information is general and not a personal recommendation. To compare how cover responds to a heart-related diagnosis, generate an indicative quote or talk to an adviser.