I may need to undergo a joint replacement surgery in four to five years. Can I take medical insurance so that my financial needs for the surgery and the post-operative period are met?
Radhika Oberoi, Pune
Generally speaking, medical insurance does not cover pre-existing diseases at the time of taking the first policy. However, there are insurers who offer to cover pre-existing diseases after a waiting period of two to four years. You can certainly get in touch with such insurers and state the facts in the proposal form. The coverage of your joint problem will be subject to the approval of the underwriters of the insurance company. The underwriters will spell out the conditions of coverage and the premium once the proposal is accepted.