According to the insurer Aviva, more people have mobile phone insurance than critical illness cover, and more people have a satellite TV package than have life insurance

Terminal illness cover is a benefit that’s included in many life insurance and critical illness insurance.  It’s something you hope you’ll never have to claim on, but if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness it could pay out a lump sum

Not everyone needs a life insurance policy but if you have young children (or older ones who are financially dependent on you) or have joint debts with someone else – such as a mortgage – you should take out life insurance

Medical treatment of HIV has made huge advances in recent years

If you’ve decided to take out a critical illness insurance policy, you’re in the minority

Depression is often misunderstood but it can be a serious illness, affecting twice as many women as men

Women are more likely to suffer from a serious illness than men

For some people, private medical insurance is a luxury (and one that they’re happy to do without), for others, it’s a priority