What is a waiting period in health insurance?

Health insurance is necessary these days, but many generally overlook it, especially in their younger years, when they assume they are healthy. However, picking a health insurance plan early is one of the wisest decisions you can make, as it allows you to serve the waiting period on time and make claims for the benefits when needed.

In general, waiting periods are categorised into several types, such as the Initial Waiting Period, Pre-existing Illness Waiting Period, Specific Disease Waiting Period, Maternity Waiting Period, and Newborn Baby Inclusion Waiting Period.

What Does Waiting Period in Health Insurance Mean?

The waiting period in health insurance refers to the initial duration after the policy begins during which the policyholder cannot make any claims. It is mainly 30 days from the policy start date, excluding accidental hospitalisations. In most health insurance policies, the waiting period ranges from 30 days to 3 years for pre-existing illnesses and certain treatments.

Waiting periods in health insurance are also essential because they prevent individuals from purchasing coverage only in situations when they require lengthy and expensive medical treatments or have pre-existing conditions, while ensuring the health insurance system remains sustainable and fair for all policyholders.

What Happens If I Submit a Claim Before Waiting Period?

If you file a claim during the waiting period, it can result in:

• Claim rejection:If the situation of the individual claiming comes under the waiting period, your claim file request may be denied by the health insurance company.


• Immediate Coverage for Accidents:Most health insurance policies provide coverage for accidents right from day one, even if you are in the initial waiting period.


• Coverage for Unrelated Ailments:During the waiting period, some unrelated medical conditions may still be covered. For instance, if you are hospitalised due to an accident during the maternity waiting period, the treatment expenses for the accident will be admissible.

Can I Minimise my Waiting Period in a Health Insurance?

Fortunately, yes, you can minimise your waiting period in health insurance. Here are some smart ways to do so:

• Purchase health insurance at an early age.


• Port to a better plan


• Rely on group health insurance.


• Choose a zero waiting period health insurance plan.

Wrapping Up

Understanding your health insurance policy's waiting periods helps you plan your healthcare expenses better. In addition, it permits you to select a plan that aligns well with your medical history, financial needs, and more.