Medical Insurance

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    Pre-existing Conditions

    A pre-existing condition is any condition that may have been known to the policyholder, displayed symptoms, been diagnosed, or required treatment prior to the start of a health insurance policy. When applying for insurance coverage, insurance companies will ask about your medical history. They look for previous illnesses or injuries that may qualify as a pre-existing condition. After identifying any pre-existing conditions, a decision will be made regarding what coverage, if any, will be provided for that particular condition.

    International health insurance companies generally do not cover serious pre-existing conditions. This is not unusual as insurance is meant to protect you against future risks, not risks that are already evident

    International health insurance companies handle pre-existing conditions in a few ways. The options available for the coverage of pre-existing conditions are Exclusion, Moratorium, Premium Loading, or Medical History Disregarded.

    Exclusion

    An insurance company may provide health insurance coverage, but exclude a specific condition and any related symptoms from the policy. A serious pre-existing condition, like diabetes, may make obtaining insurance coverage difficult. It is best to get health insurance cover before you become ill to guarantee coverage.

    Moratorium

    A moratorium is a waiting period where a pre-existing condition will not be covered. Moratoriums will typically last 24 months. If during that period the policyholder has not displayed any symptoms of the condition, required any treatment, or received any medication, then the condition may be reconsidered for coverage.

    Premium Loading

    Some international health insurance companies do extend cover to pre-existing conditions. If coverage is provided, it may come with a premium loading. A premium loading is a percentage increase on the total annual premium. Not all pre-existing conditions will be covered by loading the premium.

    Medical History Disregarded

    This option is only available to large groups with, typically, more than 20 members. If a medical history disregarded benefit is placed on the policy then all group members will be covered for all pre-existing conditions.

    Contact Kwiksure today to speak with an advisor to learn what international health insurance plans are right for you and to receive your free quote.