Define: Pre-Existing Conditions

Pre-Existing Conditions
Pre-Existing Conditions
Quick Summary of Pre-Existing Conditions

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical or health conditions that an individual has been diagnosed with or received treatment for before obtaining health insurance coverage. These conditions can range from chronic illnesses such as diabetes or asthma to past surgeries or injuries. In the context of health insurance, pre-existing conditions may affect coverage eligibility, premiums, or benefits. Prior to the implementation of certain healthcare reforms, insurers could deny coverage, impose waiting periods, or charge higher premiums for individuals with pre-existing conditions. However, under many modern healthcare systems, including those in countries like the United States, regulations have been put in place to protect individuals with pre-existing conditions from discriminatory insurance practices, ensuring access to affordable coverage and healthcare services.

Full Definition Of Pre-Existing Conditions

Pre-existing conditions are medical conditions or diseases that existed before a health insurance policy was issued. Some policies will not cover pre-existing conditions at all; other policies will cover pre-existing conditions only after one year, two years, or some other time period. Minor pre-existing conditions are often covered right away. Those who write insurance policies often view pre-existing conditions as a risk factor, particularly if those conditions may require expensive treatment anytime in the future. Common examples of such risky conditions are diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and immune disorders. There are health insurance policies made specifically for people with a lot of pre-existing conditions; however, the premiums are expensive and coverage is issued to whole groups rather than one person.

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This glossary post was last updated: 28th March, 2024.

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