What the clause targets
Policies exclude or limit coverage for costs tied to a health condition existing before departure, unless that condition stayed stable for a period defined in the contract — often three, six, or twelve months.
How stability is defined
Generally: no new diagnosis, no change in medication or dosage, no hospitalization, no new treatment, no new or worsened symptom, and no consultation for investigation during the period. The exact definition is in the contract.
A medication change counts
An adjusted dose, a substitution to a generic under some contracts, or stopping a treatment can break stability. It is the most frequent and least anticipated reason for denial.
The period counts back from departure
The stability window is assessed from the departure date, sometimes from the purchase date. A medical appointment scheduled just before the trip can therefore jeopardize coverage for a condition that was stable until then.
The medical questionnaire
Above a certain age or for certain conditions, the insurer requires a questionnaire. An inaccurate answer, even in good faith, lets them deny the claim or void the contract.
What to do before leaving
Reread your contract’s definition of stability, check the date of the last change to your medical file, and if any doubt remains, have it settled before departure by the insurer or a registered advisor — not in a hospital abroad.
No rate, price, or recommendation on this page. Amounts and limits change: verify them with official sources before deciding.