Pre-existing conditions: What is it and how does it apply to insurance? 

Pre-existing conditions: What is it and how does it apply to insurance?

A pre-existing condition can hinder your day-to-day activities if you do not care for yourself. There are numerous pre-existing illnesses like diabetes, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and more that demand regular doctor’s visits, tests, and medications. In the case of travel, pre-existing medical conditions do not create any obstacle with your plans because you can buy health insurance coverage with pre-existing health conditions

A health insurance plan can protect you financially against the acute onset of pre-existing conditions. An insured individual can get cashless treatments in hospitals and clinics up to the policy maximum for a new illness or injury and stated in the policy for the acute onset of the pre-existing condition. Each plan has a different definition and coverage level for a pre-existing condition and acute onset of pre-existing conditions. However, reading the brochure is always recommended. 

So, what is a pre-existing condition? 

A pre-existing condition is an illness or injury that exists before the start of the policy. Conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart illnesses, asthma, arthritis, pregnancy, etc., are considered pre-existing conditions. Visitor insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions; instead, they cover the acute onset of pre-existing conditions. Each plan has different coverage and look-back period; hence, reading the certificate is necessary. 

The acute onset of a pre-existing condition refers to the sudden breakout of a condition that needs immediate medical attention. The sudden breakout occurs without warning or symptoms. For example, suppose you have asthma and are traveling. Suddenly one fine day, you go through an asthma attack for which you need coverage immediately. This can be considered as an acute onset for which the plan can offer coverage through the acute onset of pre-existing condition benefit.  

Each plan defines the pre-existing condition and acute onset differently. Review the brochure before buying one. 

What are the common types of pre-existing conditions? 

  • Diabetes– People with diabetes experience frequent urination, excessive thirst, and hunger. There are three types of Diabetes-Type 1, Type 2, and gestational. Patients may be at considerable risk of heart disease, so they must monitor and maintain their blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Traveling with diabetes can be challenging, so you must consider buying a visitor insurance policy with an acute onset of pre-existing coverage.  
  • Heart attack– Cardiovascular diseases can no longer stop you from enjoying a relaxing holiday. Now, you have insurance plans that can watch your back! If there is a heart-related episode, some plans can offer some coverage if you go through an acute onset of a pre-existing condition.  
  • Cholesterol– Are you suffering from high cholesterol? If yes, you must buy a plan with an acute onset of pre-existing coverage. The condition can lead to fatal health issues, which everyone knows. An insurance plan with acute onset of pre-existing coverage can help you rush to a hospital during an emergency to receive cashless treatment up to a certain amount or as stated in the policy. 
  • Pregnancy- Pregnancy is considered a pre-existing condition if the insurer conceived before the policy’s effective date. The insurance plans do not cover regular check-ups, childbirth, abortion, and other maternity conditions. Some plans can only cover any complications as defined by the plan that may arise and need immediate medical help. 

How can insurance help you with pre-existing conditions? 

Health insurance is a surefire way to safeguard your finances when seeking medical help in the US. The US offers world-class medical facilities and resources, but the expenses are incredibly high. Therefore, buying insurance always helps visitors, travelers, and students. If you are coming to the US as a visitor, you need not worry about the expenses as your plan can cover up to the chosen policy maximum for a new illness or injury and up to the defined limit for an acute onset of a pre-existing condition. 

Insurance plans with acute onset of pre-existing coverage offer an extra benefit, i.e., taking care of the expenses if there is an acute onset of the condition. In addition, visitor insurance allows you to travel safely with a pre-existing condition, provided your doctor clears you. All you need is to buy a plan that best suits your needs. 

  • It saves money– As health care is expensive in the US, buying health insurance for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions will save you from making a hole in your pocket. The plan can take care of all the eligible expenses as mentioned in the policy. 
  • Emergency evacuation– In case of a severe illness, a medical insurance plan with coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions can arrange transportation services to help you reach and get medical aid as soon as possible. 
  • Coverage for complications– Insurance provides coverage for any unexpected complication that may arise due to a pre-existing illness. It can cover treatment, lab tests, diagnostics, prescriptions, and other related expenses for an eligible acute onset of pre-existing. 
  • Medical assistance– No matter where you travel, you can be compensated for the eligible medical expenses and helped throughout your trip. You can call the executives and learn about the providers. 
  • Quick medical help- If an unfortunate accident or any other sudden health problem occurs, your health insurance policy instantly enables you to seek medical assistance. 
  • Critical illness & surgery- Many insurance policies can cover a sudden acute onset of a  non-chronic pre-existing condition. 
  • COVID-19– Besides covering you for illnesses and pre-existing conditions, your visitor insurance plan can save you from unnecessary expenses related to COVID-19. 

Which are the best insurance plans with pre-existing coverage? 

  1. Safe Travel USA Comprehensive 

Safe Travels USA Comprehensive is a travel medical insurance plan that includes coverage for an acute onset of pre-existing conditions for non-US residents and citizens coming to the US. It covers one acute episode per pre-existing condition, covered up to medical policy maximum for non-cardiac, and has a $25,000 limit for cardiac conditions for ages 69 years & under. The plan covers up to $35,000 for non-cardiac and has a $15,000 limit for cardiac conditions for ages 70 years & above. 

  1. Atlas America 

This is a comprehensive visitor insurance policy that includes coverage for the acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions and is designed for non-US residents and citizens. The plan provides coverage for the acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions up to the overall maximum coverage limit for ages under 30 years. It also offers a $25,000 lifetime maximum for Emergency Medical Evacuation. 

  1. Patriot America Plus 

This comprehensive visitor insurance plan covers the acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing medical conditions that cover individuals outside their country of residence. The plan provides acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions coverage for ages under 70 years per the schedule of benefits when treatment is obtained within 24 hours of the first symptom. 

  1. Safe Travels Elite 

Safe Travels Elite is a fixed benefit plan that provides accident and sickness medical coverage for persons up to 89 years of age traveling to the US. The plan offers one acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage and covers one well visit per policy. Coverage limits vary as per the age of the insured. 

  1. Visitor Care Insurance 

This is a fixed benefit plan with three coverage categories- Lite, Plus, and Platinum. In addition, the plan offers acute onset of pre-existing coverage up to $25,000 max per coverage period (Lite), $50,000 max per coverage period (Plus), and $100,000 max per coverage period (Platinum). 

Conclusion 

Visitor insurance is primarily meant to provide treatment for new injuries or illnesses. Typically, these plans do not cover pre-existing conditions but can provide coverage for an acute onset of pre-existing conditions. Some health insurance policies will give good coverage for people under 69 but little for those who are 70 years and above. Some companies may provide coverage for up to 90 years of age, while others offer minimal coverage for acute onset. If pregnant, be sure to understand the coverage terms. 

Are you looking for a plan that covers pre-existing conditions? Contact NRIOL.net.