What Happens If You Hide a Pre-Existing Disease?

Non-disclosure or hiding a pre-existing disease (PED) generally refers to the failure to inform your insurer about any existing medical conditions or ailments you may have at the time of purchasing a health insurance coverage.

In some cases, you may also have to face legal consequences for providing false information, particularly during the claims process. Read on to gain more insights about hiding the pre-existing disease from your insurer.

Do Pre-Existing Diseases Affect the Health Insurance Premiums?

Your pre-existing disease may affect your health insurance premium. Several insurance companies may charge you a higher premium if you have a pre-existing condition, as you are more likely to raise a claim and may be considered a higher risk for the insurer.

Due to this, you might feel tempted to hide your pre-existing condition when buying health coverage. However, this is not recommended at all, as it can lead to serious consequences, including the cancellation of your policy in extreme cases.

Can Insurers Deny Health Coverage for Pre-existing Diseases?

Some of the insurers may deny coverage for pre-existing diseases, but it completely varies depending on the different insurance companies and the chosen health cover.

Most of the insurance plans might offer extensive coverage for PEDs, while others consider them as an exclusion or may impose limitations. Therefore, you must thoroughly review your health insurance coverage documentation to understand the pre-existing health insurance plan.

When to Disclose Pre-Existing Diseases to Your Insurer?

Informing your insurer about any pre-existing diseases is essential when you apply for a health insurance policy. This helps them properly assess the health risks involved and set suitable policy terms, such as coverage exclusions or limitations.

You should also share details about your ongoing medication, past diagnoses, and any previous treatments. Clear disclosure helps prevent disputes and ensures a smooth claim process. If required, you can also provide medical reports so the insurer can assess your health accurately.

You must also inform the insurer about any changes in your health during the policy period, such as new diagnoses, surgeries, or changes in medication, to maintain transparency. This reduces the risk of your claim being denied or your policy being cancelled during emergencies.

How to Choose the Right Health Insurance Cover with Pre-Existing Disease?

Here are some of the main pointers to look for before choosing the health insurance cover with pre-existing disease:

• You must look for health policies with clear terms and shorter waiting periods for pre-existing conditions.


• You should consider coverage limits, premiums, and any other useful add-ons.


• It is also essential to check the insurer's hospital network and claim settlement records.


• You may even include critical illness cover for added protection if it suits your specific health requirements.

You should be transparent and provide complete and accurate details about your pre-existing disease while applying for a health insurance policy. This helps the insurer clearly understand your health risks, while allowing them to set fair terms and conditions for your insurance cover.

However, if you fail to disclose any pre-existing conditions, it can put your claim at risk and even result in your policy being cancelled in extreme situations.