What is considered a pre-existing condition?

A pre-existing condition refers to a health issue for which an individual has received treatment, advice, or diagnosis before the health insurance policy was issued. This definition applies because insurance companies typically assess the risk associated with insuring individuals based on their past health history. If a condition existed prior to the start of the policy, insurers may impose waiting periods, exclusions, or higher premiums to account for the higher risk associated with that condition.

In the context of the other options, a condition treated after the policy issuance does not qualify as pre-existing since it occurred after the individual became insured. Similarly, a chronic condition managed under the policy would not be classified as pre-existing if it has been properly disclosed and covered under the terms of the insurance contract. Lastly, a newly diagnosed condition post-application is also not pre-existing, as it arises after coverage has begun and therefore is subject to the terms of the policy without the pre-existing status implications.