Most health insurance policies don't cover everything from day one. The waiting period is the time before certain claims are paid.
The initial waiting period
Many policies don't pay for illnesses that start in the first weeks, though accidents are usually covered straight away.
Specific illnesses
Some planned treatments, such as certain surgeries, can have their own longer waiting periods.
Pre-existing conditions
Conditions you already had when you bought the policy often have the longest wait. Declare them honestly.
Read the schedule
The policy wording lists every waiting period. General information only, not advice for your situation.
Sources and corrections. This article draws on the sources listed here. Spotted a mistake? and we will correct it.
- 1 Sample source: background reference
- 2 Sample source: official or primary document
- 3 Sample source: explainer from another publisher (facts only)




