Waiting Period

Insurance companies usually enforce a waiting period in order to prevent the policyholder from making large claims soon after the commencement of the policy. The duration of the waiting period is stated in the policy conditions section of the insurance plan.

Two types of treatment that generally have a waiting period are:

• Maternity: a waiting period for maternity cover is usually 10 to 12 months. This means that the policyholder cannot submit any claims regarding maternity costs until at least 10 months after the commencement of the policy. Insurance companies do this to prevent already pregnant women from taking out an insurance plan and submitting large claims, so it is highly advisable to plan well in advance when deciding to start a family.
  
  
• Dental: a waiting period for dental treatment depends on each individual insurance company. Some providers have up to 10 months, while others do not have any at all. Dental insurance will normally cover Pre-existing conditions after the waiting period.

There are a number of coverage options that are subject to a waiting period. Many policies will have different waiting periods, it is important to know what waiting periods are attached to your plan. For more information please contact one of our expert brokers.