The Critical Illness (CI) Benchmark Definitions are intended to ease some of the perceived complexity around CI definitions.
Use of the definitions is completely voluntary and member companies may make their own determination as to which definition(s) they decide to use in their contracts*.
A CLHIA Working Group periodically reviews and updates the definitions to maintain currency with medical advancements and other product developments. The most recent review was completed in 2024.
* In Quebec civil law, exclusion clauses and clauses that reduce coverage must be clearly identified as such under an appropriate heading (art. 2404 CCQ). In its decision in Beneva inc. c. Bolduc, issued May 9, 2024, the Court of Appeal of Quebec reiterates this obligation and clarifies where and how these clauses should appear. For an interpretation of this decision and to determine its scope in the present context, please consult your legal counsel.