Family Criticizes Insurer for Pushing Comatose Woman's Repatriation Against Medical Advice

AXA Partners initially demanded the UK return of a severely brain-injured woman, threatening to end her coverage despite warnings from neurologists.

Jane Rubens, 73, is in a coma in the U.S. after being struck by a vehicle in St. Louis, Missouri, on November 1, suffering severe brain injuries requiring multiple surgeries.
Her daughter, Cat Rubens, claims AXA Partners demanded her mother be flown to the UK this week or risk losing her insurance coverage, which provides up to £15 million for emergency medical care.
Medical experts, including U.S. and UK neurologists, advised against immediate repatriation, stating that flying at this stage could harm her long-term recovery and should only occur months later after further treatment.
AXA Partners has since apologized for the distress caused, stating that future decisions will involve their medical team and the doctors treating Jane Rubens to determine the best course of action.
The family expressed frustration over the added stress caused by the insurer’s demands during an already traumatic time, emphasizing the need for decisions to prioritize medical advice and patient welfare.