Can you get long-term care insurance with COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is one of the tougher conditions for long-term care underwriting. It tends to be progressive and is often tied to smoking, both of which raise the odds of needing care.

What drives the decision

• Severity. Mild, stable COPD is treated very differently from moderate or severe disease.
• Oxygen use. Ongoing supplemental oxygen generally leads to a decline for traditional coverage.
• Smoking status. Current smoking with COPD is usually a decline; quitting and stabilizing improves your (still limited) options.
• Combinations. COPD together with heart disease is a particularly difficult pairing.

Realistic expectations

A stable non-smoker with mild COPD and good lung function may have limited options, usually at higher rates. Moderate-to-severe COPD, oxygen use, or continued smoking is generally declined. Asset-based policies or short-term care coverage may be worth exploring if traditional coverage is off the table.

General information only. Underwriting varies by carrier and changes often, and we do not publish carrier-specific approval thresholds. Nothing here is a guarantee of coverage or a quote — only a licensed carrier reviewing your medical history can tell you what you qualify for. This is educational and not insurance, legal, tax, or financial advice.