Child diabetes mellitus type 1

Here you'll find our current definition of the critical illness, additional condition or child specific condition we cover. We've also listed any previous definitions we may have had. With each new definition we've highlighted what's changed from the previous definition.

Current definition

December 2023 (CSC)

Child diabetes mellitus type 1- with insulin dependency

A definite diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus by an appropriate medical specialist, requiring the permanent need for exogenous insulin replacement therapy.

For the above definition, the following are not covered:

  • any other type of diabetes, even if treated with insulin.

Changes from previous definition

We've updated the requirement for permanent insulin injections to any type of exogenous insulin therapy and removed the 12 month waiting period.

Previous definitions

Child diabetes mellitus Type 1 – requiring permanent insulin injections

A definite diagnosis of Type 1 insulin dependent diabetes mellitus by an appropriate medical specialist. There must be abrupt onset, accompanied by ketonuria or other biochemical evidence of ketosis.

Permanent insulin injections must be the only effective treatment to prevent life-threatening diabetic ketoacidosis and these must have continued for a period of at least 12 months.

For the above definition, the following are not covered:

  • gestational diabetes unless the child has been on continuous insulin injections to prevent diabetic ketoacidosis for 12 months after delivery of a baby; and
  • type 2 diabetes mellitus including if treated with oral medications or treated with insulin to improve diabetic control;
  • and diabetes insipidus.

This is a new child-specific condition. It's available with Enhanced Children's Critical Illness Cover.