When we consider the future, we tend to imagine positives. Rarely does one consider a serious illness occurring to them. In our minds, it is always much more probable for someone else to find themselves in a hospital. Unfortunately, our inability to picture such a scenario does not render it from the realm of possibilities. And though pondering about one's health taking a turn for the worse is not a pleasant thought, it is far better to be prepared and proactive rather than be caught unaware without an adequate financial safety net – especially when diagnosed with a critical illness.

Human nature tends to keep people away from the hospital, even when they are stricken with serious symptoms. Consider a study by York University, which found that 87 percent of patients who experienced heart failure perceived that their symptoms had some degree of seriousness, but a remarkable 80 percent of those patients simply waited for the symptoms to go away! Unfortunately, these cases can lead to prolonged hospital stays, with bills to match – especially when a critical illness such as a heart attack, stroke or cancer is the cause.

As a benefits advisor, how do you express the importance of critical illness insurance to clients who might consider voluntary insurance an afterthought to major medical, home and vehicle insurance? The solution: Show clients how critical illness insurance is a win-win for employers and employees alike.