The short answer is yes.

When applying for private health insurance in Spain, you are required to fill out a health questionnaire. This is a critical step in the application process, and honesty is paramount. But why is it so important, and what are the consequences if you don't? Let's delve into the details.

Why You Must Declare Pre-existing Conditions

Insurance companies base their coverage and premiums on risk assessment. A pre-existing or chronic condition represents a higher risk because it's a known health issue that will likely require medical care. By declaring your condition, you allow the insurance company to make an informed decision. Based on your health declaration, the company can:

• The insurance company may agree to cover all risks under the contract.
• The insurance company may limit coverage for the declared illness (for example, by imposing an additional waiting period for future diagnosis and treatment).
• The insurance company may exclude medical services, diagnosis and treatment of the declared illness from coverage.
• The insurance company may be unable to take on the risk coverage.

The Dangers of Non-Disclosure

It might be tempting to omit information about a chronic illness to secure coverage. However, this is considered insurance fraud and can have severe consequences:

Potential Consequences of Hiding a Condition:
The insurance contract includes a clause stating that by signing the contract, you declare that you were honest when completing the health declaration, and in case of providing false information, the insurance company reserves the right to limit coverage or terminate the contract.
What is Considered a "Pre-existing Condition"?
A pre-existing condition is any illness, injury, or medical condition for which you have experienced symptoms, received medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment before the start date of your new health insurance policy. This includes chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, asthma, and autoimmune disorders, as well as past issues like a resolved cancer diagnosis or a surgery.
What if the insurance company excludes existing illnesses from coverage?
Even if the insurance company excludes something from the coverage, you will have a lot of other possible risks covered. This is still more advantageous than paying for all medical services as a private patient.
Can a health declaration increase the cost of health insurance?
Yes, it can. The insurance company may offer to cover the declared illnesses with superior premium. The amount will be communicated by the risk department before signing the insurance contract, and if the proposed condition is not suitable, you can decline the insurance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, regarding the necessity of making a health declaration when applying for private health insurance, it is important to approach this question with intelligence and understanding of all pros and cons. If you have any doubts or questions, please leave a request for a free consultation with me.