In health insurance, a pre-existing condition is defined as any ailment, illness or condition (diagnosed or not) where you have had signs or symptoms at any time in the six months before you commence hospital  cover or upgrade to a higher level of cover. 

A 12-month waiting period applies for pre-existing conditions. Any hospital claims made within that 12-month waiting period will, in most cases, be subject to a pre-existing condition assessment. This is conducted by an independent medical professional arranged by Police Health. 

After you’ve served your 12-month waiting period, your claim will not be considered a pre-existing condition. Please note that a 2 month waiting period applies before a pre-existing condition assessment can be undertaken. 

If you’ve upgraded to our Gold Hospital or Gold Combined cover, we’ll always confirm your waiting periods once we receive a transfer certificate from your previous fund (usually within 2-3 weeks of joining or upgrading).  

Read more information on our ‘pre-existing conditions’ page.