What is generally included under the term "pre-existing condition" in disability insurance?

The term "pre-existing condition" in the context of disability insurance typically refers to any health issue that was diagnosed or for which the insured received treatment prior to the start of the insurance policy. This definition is important because such conditions can influence an insurer's evaluation of risk and the terms of coverage offered.

When an insurance company assesses an application, they review the applicant's medical history to determine if any conditions might affect their ability to work and consequently lead to claims. If a condition was diagnosed before the policy took effect, it may be subject to exclusions or waiting periods outlined in the policy.

While prior health issues include a wide range of diagnoses, the specificity of "diagnosed before the policy" underlines the insurer's concern about conditions that could have repercussions on the policyholder's health coverage from the outset.

Conditions treated within a certain timeframe or only chronic issues may not encapsulate the full range of concerns an insurer has about pre-existing conditions, and general "any prior health issue" lacks the clarity needed for underwriting decisions.