Diabetes and insurance: a survey of patient experience.

A survey of 186 diabetic patients examined their collective experience of life and motor insurance. Some form of life insurance policy had been obtained by 150 patients, with a combined total of 204 policies, 107 of which had been agreed before the diagnosis of diabetes. Most patients had declared diabetes to the insurer but 12 patients had been refused acceptance. Only 15 patients sought alternative quotations. The premium had been loaded by 10-40% for 36 patients because of diabetes, and 48 required a medical report. Of 147 diabetic drivers, 95 (65%) had declared diabetes either to the Licensing authority, or to the motor insurer, but only 62 (42%) had informed both. Fourteen patients had been refused motor insurance cover by individual companies, and 36 patients were aware of having had their premium increased, but only 16 patients had sought alternative quotations. Major differences in attitude with regard to diabetes as a risk factor for insurance are evident, and patients should be advised to approach several companies when seeking insurance cover.