Cockatoo guide

Morbidity rates in insurance

Morbidity measures concern illness or disability occurrence within a defined population and period.

Morbidity measures concern illness or disability occurrence within a defined population and period.

The distinction that matters

They differ from mortality and depend on the condition, data quality and measurement method; a population rate is not an individual diagnosis.

What to check

  • Identify the condition and population.
  • Check incidence versus prevalence.
  • Review the period and data limitations.

Example to discuss

An insurer’s portfolio assumption should not be read as a prediction that a particular applicant will develop an illness.

This is a hypothetical comparison, not a customer claim or a determination of cover.

Sources and further reading

General information only. The policy, schedule and applicable rules determine the actual position. For a personal decision, use an appropriately qualified adviser or the relevant provider.

Sources

References used in this guide