FAQ

Life insurance is available after cardiac arrest and with an ICD, but it will typically be more expensive than standard rates and some providers may decline certain types of cover. The market varies considerably between insurers, so it is important to shop around and use a specialist broker where possible.

When applying for life insurance, you are required to disclose your medical history, including your cardiac arrest and any devices or conditions. Failing to disclose is likely to make any claim invalid. Insurers will usually ask for details of the event, the cause, your current medications, device type, and the results of your most recent cardiac review.

Some policies may be available at standard rates, particularly if the cardiac arrest occurred some years ago, the cause has been fully treated, you have a well-functioning ICD, and there are no other significant health conditions. Others will be offered at "loaded" (increased) premiums, or with exclusions for cardiac-related claims.

For those who cannot obtain standard life insurance, options include over-50s guaranteed acceptance plans (which do not require medical questions but typically pay a fixed sum) and specialist insurers who focus on people with pre-existing medical conditions.

The British Heart Foundation produces guidance on insurance for people with heart conditions. Specialist financial advisers experienced in this area can help identify the most suitable options.

A cardiac arrest does not mean life insurance is impossible — it means you need to look harder and possibly pay more.

Pet shock collars for electric pet fences, including remote controls and bases with antennas, should be kept six inches away from your heart device.  Buried wires should be at least 12 inches from your ICD.

Heart devices such as ICDs are very tough and in normal day to day activities shouldn’t require any extra protection. However, if you would prefer to have an additional layer of protection there are a number of options available and these can be found on our ICD Protection page.

Electromagnetic interference has only a temporary effect on ICDs. Once the device no longer detects the EMI, it will resume normal function. Don’t hold magnets within 6 inches of your device because that can temporarily disable the defibrillator.

Yes. Plumbing work is generally safe for people with ICDs. The tools and materials used in most plumbing tasks do not generate electromagnetic fields that would affect your device.

If your work involves power tools with electric motors, apply the standard precaution of keeping the motor at least 15cm (6 inches) from your device. If you work near large pump motors or industrial electrical systems, the same principles as for other industrial environments apply — discuss your specific work environment with your cardiologist or device clinic if you have concerns.

Yes. Lasers are light energy and shouldn’t mess with your ICD. However, some magnets or transmitters in laser tag vests may interfere with your ICD, so keep it 6 inches away from your device.

In the UK, having an ICD or the underlying heart condition that led to its implantation will almost always prevent you from holding a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) medical certificate, which is required to fly as a pilot of any category.

This applies to Private Pilot Licences (PPL), Commercial Pilot Licences (CPL), and Airline Transport Pilot Licences (ATPL). The CAA assesses each case individually, but conditions such as ventricular arrhythmia and ICD implantation are considered disqualifying in the vast majority of circumstances due to the safety implications of sudden incapacitation at altitude.

If you are a trained pilot and are facing ICD implantation, it is worth seeking specialist aviation medical advice early — ideally from an Aeromedical Examiner (AME) — before any decisions are made, so that all options are fully understood. In very limited circumstances, some pilots may be able to fly in certain categories with specific conditions, but this is rare and assessed on a case-by-case basis.

More information is available from the UK Civil Aviation Authority at www.caa.co.uk.

If you are able to return to driving, the choice of when and how to do it is a personal one. 

If you have an occupational therapist, talk to them about it. They can tailor your therapy to help prepare you to return to driving. An automatic car can be easier to drive than a manual.

Before you start driving again, you may find it helpful to have a few refresher lessons with a qualified driving instructor. You can find driving instructors in your area by looking in your local phonebook or on the internet. Check that they are registered with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). Mobility centres can also provide advice about returning to driving.

Insurance
Before you start driving again you must tell your insurance company about your cardiac arrest and any medical conditions you have. If you don’t do this, it might invalidate your insurance. Insurance companies have their own processes, so talk to yours to find out more. Check your policy carefully. They might want confirmation that you are safe to drive.

Having a medical condition can make insurance more expensive. Try shopping around for a competitive quote, or look for a specialist insurance provider when you need to renew.