However, your CD4 count can affect whether you can take out a policy or if you will attract a loading. Here is what you need to know.

The difference between CD4 count and viral loading

The good news is that an insurer cannot discriminate against you based on your HIV status. However, your CD4 count will play a role in whether your policy is approved or not. Life insurers in South Africa will assess the level of risk an illness has to your life to see whether they can approve your policy or not. The same goes for anyone who has been diagnosed as HIV positive.

You are most likely going to be asked about your CD4 count. The higher your CD4 count is, the healthier your immune system is, making you less of a risk. Viral load is how much HIV is in a drop of blood. The lower your viral load is the more likely it is that the HIV therapy is working. Therefore, it is vital, to be honest when answering this question to avoid having a claim denied.

How will this affect a policy?

These underwriting questions are asked so that insurers can give you a cover that will adequately cover you and any needs that may arise. An insurer can accept your application for life cover, but it can attract a loading based on your level of risk.

What is a loading?

When taking out a policy you will be asked a range of questions regarding your age, health, lifestyle, and occupation which is also known as the underwriting process. 

These questions will give your insurer insight into how much cover you will need and the chances of you claiming in the future. It will also affect your premiums. For example, if you are a firefighter or a construction worker the chances of you making a claim are higher compared to someone who works in an office. This could attract a loading. The same applies to someone who is has been diagnosed as HIV positive compared to someone who is HIV negative. 

However, this can be removed or reduced should the cause of the loading be improved. For example, if your CD4 count improves your insurer could reduce or remove the loading. 

What if I am denied a policy?

There are many reasons why an insurer can deny a policy. Being HIV positive may not be part of the reason. Should you be denied a policy, you can ask your insurer why. You can always try again in cases where it is something that can be improved. 

Keep in mind that insurers will need you to actively take care of your health and follow the prescribed medication to approve a policy. The higher the CD4 count is the healthier the immune system.