Every health policy starts with clocks. Until a clock runs out, claims for the conditions it covers can be refused. Most people have three running at once.
The three clocks
- Initial waiting period, usually 30 days. No illness claims in the first month. Accidents are covered from day one.
- Specific illnesses, usually 24 months. Hernia, cataract, joint replacement and other listed conditions.
- Pre-existing diseases, up to 36 months. Anything you had before you bought the policy, like diabetes or high blood pressure.
“Pre-existing diseases shall be covered after 36 months of continuous coverage from the first policy inception date.”
What changed in 2024
IRDAI capped the waiting period for pre-existing diseases at 36 months, down from 48. Older policies may still show 48 months in their wording until they’re renewed under the new rules. Read your current schedule, not last year’s.
Clocks don’t restart at renewal
Waiting periods count from your first policy with that insurer, as long as you renew on time. Miss the renewal and the next policy can be treated as new. Porting to another insurer carries your time served across, up to your existing sum insured.
When do your clocks end?Upload your policy and we’ll give you the dates.