What are pre-existing conditions?
Each international medical program treats pre-existing conditions differently with one aspect in common: they are almost always a part of any program. Generally, pre-existing conditions are defined as medical conditions, medication, consultation, or treatment which existed or which were performed prior to the effective date of coverage (please read the actual exclusion in each program). The reason why pre-existing conditions are excluded is for convenience. Often, international programs are written for only a few months, so there isn’t enough time to underwrite each applicant. Therefore, the coverage must exclude pre-existing conditions or otherwise medical coverage wouldn’t be available. Please note that there are certain international medical programs in which coverage for pre-existing conditions is possible. These plans are called worldwide medical programs and they are typically written only on an annual basis and are intended to cover the insured for years instead of only a few mo
By far, this represents our clients’ greatest concern. Each international medical program treats pre-existing conditions differently with one aspect in common: they are almost always a part of any program. Generally, pre-existing conditions are defined as medical conditions, medication, consultation, or treatment which existed or which were performed prior to the effective date of coverage (please read the actual exclusion in each program). Pre-existing conditions are mostly excluded from coverage. This means that if you currently have a specific condition for which you have seen a doctor, been consulted, or under medication, that condition is considered as an existing condition. This includes conditions which develop which are related to that condition (ie. high blood pressure thereby causes a heart attack).
