Why Pre-Existing Conditions Are Often Excluded
If you’ve ever wondered why insurers don’t cover pre-existing conditions, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common frustrations for expats — and one of the least clearly explained.
So why does this happen?
The Business Logic Behind It
Health insurance is designed to protect against unknown risks — not guaranteed expenses.
If an insurer knows you’re already dealing with a medical condition that requires ongoing treatment or may lead to expensive claims, they’re looking at certain cost, not risk. Covering that would put them at a financial loss right from day one.
Most insurers handle this by:
- Excluding the condition entirely
- Charging a higher premium
- Imposing a waiting period
- Or declining the application altogether
This process is called underwriting — it’s how insurers assess your risk and decide how (or whether) to offer coverage.
Insurance companies are businesses, not charities. Their job is to manage risk, and covering a known condition is like letting someone place a bet after the outcome is already decided.
What Counts as a Pre-Existing Condition?
A pre-existing condition typically includes anything you’ve:
- Been diagnosed with
- Received treatment or medication for
- Had symptoms of — even if undiagnosed
Common examples: high blood pressure, diabetes, past surgeries, mental health conditions, and even long-resolved issues like kidney stones or chronic back pain.
Why Travel Insurance Isn’t a Workaround
Short-term travel insurance plans are even more strict. They often exclude all pre-existing conditions by default, no questions asked.
Even if your condition is stable, you’ll likely have zero coverage for anything related to that condition.
What Are Your Options If Insurers Don’t Cover Your Pre-Existing Conditions?
Some insurers offer more flexibility than others — particularly in the expat health insurance market. Depending on your situation, you might:
- Get partial coverage for the condition with a loading fee
- Be covered for related complications but not the condition itself
- Be accepted under a moratorium policy, where exclusions can be lifted after a claim-free period
Working with an independent broker can help. At Expat Health Group, we’ll help you compare plans and identify which insurers are more likely to offer favorable terms.
The Sooner You Apply, the Better
The biggest mistake expats make?
Waiting until something goes wrong before getting insured.
Understanding why insurers do not cover pre-existing conditions is key to choosing the right plan. If you apply while you’re healthy, insurers are far more likely to approve you with fewer restrictions — and lower premiums.