For example, if you've had a heart attack in the past 12 months, your insurer will want the full details of your condition, but it's likely that heart issues won't be covered in the future.
What if you have a health condition?
Most insurers in New Zealand offer cover for pre existing conditions in one of three ways, they will either:- permanently exclude the condition from your cover
- charge an additional premium to cover the condition, or;
- only cover the condition after a “stand-down” period. A stand down period means that cover will be available for the condition after your policy has been running for a set time, this is normally around three years.
It's not all bad news though
Each insurer has differing approaches when it comes to how to approach exclusions. It will depend on your pre existing condition, and what it's associated with it.Start a free insurance quote on LifeDirect and compare prices from NZ's leading insurers to get an idea of what you'd be paying for health insurance. Otherwise if you'd like to chat to someone, you can call our Wellington based team on 0800 800 400, and we can lend a hand.
Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current development or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek independent guidance.
