I get the impression that they always try and get out of paying you,ive got the insurance,how ill does one have to be to get paid out?
I think there's a list of illnesses that it covers. It doesn't have to be terminal. So if you have a heart attack but you survive you still get the pay out. It has to one of the illnesses on the list though. You just need to be diagnosed and it's party time!
It depends on how old the policy is. If you bought a critical illness plan a few years ago chances are if you have a specified illness, a heart attack for example, you would receive the benefit, i.e. the sum assured, if you suffered that illness.
If you purchase one nowadays to receive your payment you have to suffer a "critical" illness. So if you suffer a mild heart attack or a non life threatening cancer (caught at a very early stage) you would not receive your benefit.
If you take out cover I wouldn't suggest taking out one from say Tesco's as they may not have a great claim history, underwriting process, or general servicing etc. Price is not always the best way to decide which company you purchase your cover through.
Sorry for rambling on.