Pre-existing Medical Conditions & Their Related Conditions!?
The type of Medical Plans that senior managers and executives purchase is designed to give members peace of mind when it comes to NEW arising medical conditions and it’s often noted that pre-existing conditions are NOT usually covered unless…
- a) The insurer has accepted the condition in writing with a possible loading; or
- b) The member is on a Medical History Disregarded Group Scheme.
What is a Pre-Existing Condition?
A pre-existing condition is a disease, illness or injury which you have received medication, treatment or advice for; or that you have experienced symptoms before the start of your cover, whether or not you have sought advice from a medical professional.
Common examples of pre-existing health conditions are diabetes, hypertension, COPD, cancer, and sleep apnea, slipped or herniated disks, Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism to name a few.
They tend to be chronic or long-term.
Here’s the kicker though.
What most people don’t know is that in the vast majority of cases, the related medical conditions are also not covered.
What’s a related medical conditions?
Broadly speaking, it’s a secondary medical condition that is caused by the primary medical condition. (That’s my layman’s definition.)
For example, a related condition to hypertension could be a number of things such as stroke, heart attack, kidney damage, develop vision problems, sexual dysfunction, peripheral artery disease (PAD), etc.
These would not be covered due to them be termed related conditions even though you may have been taking Meds to control the hypertension.
If you have a pre-existing medical condition exclusion, it may be wise to find out what its related conditions are so that you’re not caught unawares.
And if your pre-existing medical condition is due to your lifestyle, may I be bold enough to suggest that you change your lifestyle?
I’m not pointing fingers because I too have slightly elevated blood pressure but I am addressing it. I hired a coach who’s adjusted my diet and it’s working nicely thank you. For the first time in a very long time I can see my abs…well the top 4 anyway!
Get in touch today!
Phone: +263 242 701 590
Email: info@ihc.co.zw
