Star Health Insurance Waiting Period for Pre-existing Diseases

What is the Pre-existing Disease Waiting Period?

Pre-existing disease waiting period or cooling period is the time period during which you cannot file a claim for any pre-existing disease (PED). A disease is considered pre-existing if the insured person was diagnosed, operated or had shown symptoms for up to 48 months before purchasing the policy. Star Health & Allied Insurance Company will be liable to pay for the treatment of your pre-existing diseases only after your PED waiting period is over.

Some of the most common pre-existing diseases among Indians are high blood pressure, asthma, thyroid problems, diabetes, etc.

You can also read: Pre-existing Disease in a Health Insurance Plan

Pre-existing Disease Waiting Period for Different Star Health Insurance Plans

The waiting period to cover pre-existing diseases by Star Health Insurance plans varies from 1 to 4 years. However, you can get immediate Day 1 coverage for pre-existing diseases under the Star Diabetes Safe Insurance plan. Additionally, if you opt for the Star Health Comprehensive policy, you can reduce the PED waiting period from 36 months to 12 months by purchasing the Buy Back Pre-existing Disease add-on cover.

Here are the pre-existing disease waiting periods for different Star health insurance plans:

Why Should You Choose Lower PED Waiting Periods with Star Health Insurance?

Here are the top reasons to choose Star Health Insurance plans with a lower waiting period for pre-existing diseases:

1. Immediate Coverage

   A lower waiting period means coverage for your pre-existing condition begins soon after purchasing your Star health insurance policy. In fact, the Star Diabetes Insurance plan covers pre-existing diseases from day 1 of the policy. Thus, it ensures that you can avail of necessary medical treatments for your pre-existing diseases without significant delays or financial strain.

2. Timely Access to Healthcare

   With a lower PED waiting period, you can get the right treatment at the right time. It provides you with timely access to healthcare during a medical emergency arising out of your pre-existing condition without worrying about hospital bills. This allows you to seek medical attention, consultations, and treatments as soon as you require them without waiting for an extended period.

3. Reduced Out-of-Pocket Expenses

   Opting for a lower PED waiting period can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses resulting from the treatment and medications for your pre-existing condition. This is because Star Health & Allied Insurance pays for your medical bills earlier with a lower waiting period and, in turn, mitigates the financial burden on you.

Things to Keep in Mind While Choosing a PED Waiting Period for Star Health Insurance Plans

You must remember the following things while choosing the pre-existing disease waiting period for a Star Health Insurance plan:

1. Disclose Your Pre-existing Disease to the Insurer

   According to data analyzed by Policybazaar, around 25% of health insurance claims are rejected due to policyholders failing to disclose their pre-existing conditions at the time of purchasing the policy. This is because health insurance contracts are based on trust and the insurer expects you to disclose your medical conditions honestly to get medical coverage when required. If you have not disclosed your pre-existing condition while buying the policy, Star Health & Allied Insurance Company has the right to reject your claim and even cancel your policy.

2. Get an Advantage over Pre-existing Conditions.

   Long-term illnesses usually surface with age and are common among elderly people. The chances of getting diagnosed with a lifestyle disease are lower in your 20s than in your 40s. Purchasing a Star health insurance plan at a young age ensures that your PED waiting period is fulfilled while you are still in good health. As a result, you will get the right to immediate insurance claims. And when you do get a long-term disease in the older years, Star Health & Allied Insurance Company will be liable to pay your claims immediately.

3. Read the Terms and Conditions Carefully

   Before choosing a Star health insurance plan, it is crucial to go through the terms and conditions of different plans carefully. Doing so will ensure that you are aware of the waiting periods for pre-existing diseases beforehand and there are no surprises later. Not knowing about your PED waiting periods can lead to claim rejection.

Summing It Up

Being diagnosed with any long-term illness can put you in emotional and financial turmoil. This is why it is important to check the waiting period for pre-existing diseases while buying a Star Health Insurance policy and avoid any claim rejection in the future. Moreover, make sure to choose a health policy with day 1 coverage or a minimum waiting period so that your pre-existing diseases are covered by the insurer as soon as possible.