How Long Do I Have to Wait Before My Policy Starts Covering Me?

You have to wait for a minimum of 30 days and up to 3 to 4 years to avail your health insurance policy benefit, depending on the type of waiting period. The insurance company cannot reject your claim after this period. Let us understand the different types of waiting periods in health insurance.

What is the Waiting Period of Your Health Insurance Policy?

The waiting period is a time during which a health insurance policy does not offer certain benefits or coverage. The insurer has the right to reject a health insurance claim made by the policyholder before the waiting period has ended. However, the insurance company cannot reject a claim made by the insured after the waiting time has ended.

For instance, the insurer will reject a claim made after 70 days if the waiting period for hypertension under parents' health insurance is 90 days. However, the claim will not be rejected if it is submitted after 90 days.

What are the Common Types of Waiting Periods in a Health Insurance Policy?

The duration of the waiting period in health insurance depends on the type of waiting period. Let us take a deeper dive into the different types of waiting periods:

1. PED Waiting Period

You must disclose your PED on a health insurance policy form to prevent future claim settlement issues. Pre-existing medical illnesses include diabetes, thyroid, hypertension, and other diseases that were identified 36 months before the purchase of the insurance.

2. Initial Waiting Period

The initial waiting period is the time following the purchase of the insurance during which hospitalisation claims, whether scheduled or emergency, are not accepted. Usually, it is 30 days after the insurance purchase date. Only claims pertaining to hospital stays brought on by accidents are allowed during this time.

3. Critical Illness Waiting Period

The waiting period for all critical illness insurance plans is up to 90 days. The insurer will not accept any claims for certain critical illnesses received during this time.

4. Health-Checkup Waiting Period

Many health insurance policies offer one extra advantage, which is reimbursement for medical examinations. However, before you use this facility, there is a waiting period, which is typically 1 year from the date of policy purchase. The waiting period for a health check-up is one example of this.

Can I Reduce the Waiting Period of Health Insurance?

Yes, you can reduce a health insurance policy's waiting time. Several insurance companies provide the option to shorten the waiting time for certain illnesses and treatments.

For instance, some health plans include PED coverage starting on the first or 30 days of the insurance. However, you can pay an additional health insurance premium to get such coverage.

Final Thought

In health insurance, a waiting period means the beginning of benefits following the date of policy purchase. Look for health plans with zero or shorter waiting periods if you want to start receiving benefits right away after the purchase.