If having a SCAD has had an impact on your ability to work, you may be struggling financially. While we cannot provide advice, we suggest that you find out about your rights here:
For information about Employment Support Allowance for periods of short-term illness.
You can also talk to the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.
The Federation of Small Businesses is an organisation that provides support to small businesses.
Disability Rights UK provides a guide to applying for a personal independence payment as well as other help.
Turn2Us is a national charity helping people when times get tough. They provide financial support to help people get back on track.
Mortgage/critical illness cover
If you took out a Critical Illness policy before you had your SCAD, it is worth checking your policy wording very carefully. Some SCAD patients have had their mortgages discharged completely. Others have not – check the small print.
You must also consider that if you obtain a pay-out of this kind, you may find it difficult to secure another mortgage in the future.
Life insurance
Some providers will not sell a life insurance policy to someone diagnosed with SCAD. Other less risk-averse providers will do so, but the premiums charged may be prohibitive.
FAQs
Many people find it hard to get critical illness insurance after having a SCAD. You will need to declare it as a pre-existing condition and this is very likely to push premiums up a lot. Some insurers may offer cover that excludes heart conditions. We recommend discussing this with a broker that specialises in this area.
Many people find it hard to get life insurance after having a SCAD and if they can, the premiums are likely to be very high. It will depend on the severity of the heart attack, whether you've had surgery or stents and how long ago the SCAD was. We recommend talking to a broker experienced in this area.
Living with SCAD...
Emotional Impact
Emotional and psychological recovery often takes longer than physical recovery, but there is help available
Emotional ImpactAdvocating for Yourself
Knowledge is power! SCAD is uncommon, so help your doctors to help you by becoming well informed
Advocating for YourselfSCAD Information Pack
Create a pack of information and documents to carry with you in case of emergency
SCAD Information PackReturning to Work
Hints and tips about what to consider when thinking about returning to work after a SCAD
Returning to Work