Drug use in Canada is common or non-existent depending on what you define as a "drug". Eleven percent of the Canadian population "has a drug or alcohol problem" according to a CBC survey, but that does not include people who use drugs for recreational purposes without a "problem". This number, especially when you include alcohol and cannabis, is much, much higher, and if you only include people with conventional addictions to illicit drugs, such as crack, heroin, the number is much, much weaker.
In general, the way insurance companies approach drug-related issues is based on two main questions: is the potential client using prescription drugs through the appropriate channels, or is he / she using prescription drugs? outside these channels, and therefore statistically vulnerable to certain responsibilities?
For the former, these issues are often discovered in background checks and medical questionnaires provided by insurance companies before developing or offering a policy. Naturally, some drugs have an effect on a person's life expectancy and quality of life, and others have certain health risks, even when supplied by a health care professional. In these cases, an insurance company will take into account the medical problems being treated by the drugs and the effects of the drugs themselves in developing a policy, but a policy can usually be provided by most major providers. 'Health Insurance.
For those who use illicit drugs, the options are generally more difficult. Insurance companies are usually reluctant to offer policies, many even reluctant to offer low-cost options to people who smoke.
Fortunately, some options are still available for drug users, especially those who use illicit drugs. Remember that many policies do not cover complications that occur as a result of illicit drug use, and failure to disclose this information on request can constitute insurance fraud, which can be a serious crime which includes hefty fines and possible prison terms.
In general, illicit drug users have only one option when it comes to life insurance options: simplified life insurance policies that do not require medical questionnaires. The situation is changing, as more and more insurance companies offer products specially designed for the "difficult to insure" market. Simplified insurance plans often only require simple medical questions that do not include questions about drug use.
No medical life insurance policy varies significantly from one carrier to another, so it pays to research these plans before contacting them to compare rates and potential coverage. You can also ask your insurance broker to do an informal preliminary investigation before submitting a formal request. Informal preliminary inquiries are not binding and may give you an idea whether your request would be approved as a standard, refused, or assessed. Keep in mind that insurers may offer plans with coverage on the first day or with a two-year waiting period depending on your situation.
If you have used or are using illegal drugs and need life insurance, it is important to discuss your options with an insurance broker who has your best interests in mind. With the right team behind you, the right policy can be found.
