Regardless of age, many of us deal with persistent health issues. However, this does not mean you should have to worry about how it will affect your OSHC or OVHC policy. It is true that pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart conditions or sleep apnoea, could influence your insurance premium. Yet, this does not end there – the nature of your pre-existing condition might also define the available insurance coverage types for you.

Knowing this, do not let pre-existing medical conditions deter you from securing you and your loved one's future. Here is all the crucial information you need about getting OSHC or OVHC while living with a pre-existing condition.
What is a Pre-Existing Medical Condition?

First and foremost, your pre-existing health condition matters therefore, before you purchase OSHC or OVHC, be aware of any crucial information there is for pre-existing health covers.

Now coming to its meaning, any medical condition that has been previously diagnosed or treated by a medical professional falls into the category of pre-existing medical conditions. This could range from a health issue that requires constant care to any ailment that has been treated in the past.

Remember, however, that interpretations often vary among insurance providers. One company's definition of what constitutes a pre-existing condition can differ compared to another.
To add further complexity, many insurers evaluate pre-existing conditions on a case-by-case basis. They may consider multiple factors such as:

•    The nature of your condition.
•    The history surrounding your symptoms.
•    The duration of your treatment.
•    The period since you last received treatment, if any.
•    The result of your treatment.

Understanding your health history is an essential part of securing the right coverage. Therefore, make sure you are well informed about your insurance provider's policies regarding pre-existing conditions.
Understanding Different Pre-existing Conditions
Let us put it in simple words, the concept of 'pre-existing conditions' in terms of health insurance covers refers to any medical condition that existed before you purchased your OSHC or OVHC policy.
Such conditions are categorised as 'pre-existing', and to give you a better idea, we have enlisted a few examples:

• Hypertension or Hypotension: Whether your blood pressure is extraordinarily high or low, it has a chance of being classified as a pre-existing condition.

•    Hyperglycaemia: The fancy term for high blood sugar, often a symptom of diabetes.
•    Cardiac ailments: Any heart-related disease could be categorized as a pre-existing condition.
•    Mental Health Disorders: This includes everything from depression to anxiety or any other psychological conditions.
•    Major illnesses: Cancer or stroke can be considered a pre-existing condition.
•    Persistent Disorders: Illnesses that persist over a long period, such as epilepsy or heart conditions, fall under this category.
•    Organ-related Diseases: Diseases related to the kidney, liver, or bladder are also typically classified as pre-existing conditions.

Remember, different OSHC or OVHC policies have different guidelines when it comes to defining pre-existing conditions, and the criteria for assessment vary. It is always advisable to gain a better understanding of your policy and avoid any surprises later.
How does Australia's OSHC or OVHC deal with Pre-Existing Conditions?

The OSHC(Overseas student health cover) and OVHC (Overseas visitor health cover)policies do not directly deal with pre-existing conditions, rather they include waiting periods. Putting it in simple words, for the treatment of some pre-existing conditions, you have to go through a certain period to claim the benefits.
To elaborate, if you need treatment for a pre-existing condition during your waiting period, you cannot claim for any benefits covered under your policy. You will have to pay the entire amount from your pocket.

On the other hand, if a treatment for your pre-existing condition is required after your waiting period is over, you can avail of your policies benefits. Ensure that your insurance provider has made you aware about your policies benefits, pre-existing coverage, and most importantly, waiting period.

This is crucial information to avoid any sort of misunderstanding later. After all, nothing should act as a barrier when it comes to your health.

Conclusion
Do not let your health conditions dictate your future; there is always an overseas student or overseas visitor health cover that is right for you. After all, it is a wise and valuable investment that not only gives you financial security but also peace of mind. Secure your health with Budget Policy!