In the world of health and life insurance in Portugal, the relationship between policyholders and insurers is built on trust and transparency. A recent regulatory update has clarified a sensitive topic: the obligation to declare pre-existing medical conditions.
According to the latest guidelines, policyholders are no longer required to disclose medical conditions that have been fully cured for over 10 years. This significant change addresses concerns often raised by individuals seeking to purchase health or life insurance.
What Does the Law Say?
Portuguese legislation now states that insurers cannot penalize clients for medical conditions or illnesses that were completely cured more than a decade ago. This means that when completing a health questionnaire, the policyholder is not obligated to disclose such information.
For instance, someone who overcame cancer more than 10 years ago and has had no recurrence since can legally omit this information when applying for a new policy.
Why Is This Rule Important?
This measure is a win for consumers, ensuring fairness and protecting their rights. In many cases, fully resolved medical conditions continue to result in higher premiums or exclusions from coverage.
By allowing policyholders to omit old medical issues, the law promotes inclusion and ensures that insurance contracts are based on the client’s current health risks, not on long-past medical history.
How Does It Work in Practice?
In practice, when applying for insurance, clients are required to complete a detailed health questionnaire about their current and recent medical history. For conditions cured more than 10 years ago, there is no obligation to disclose them, unless explicitly required in the contract.
However, it’s essential for clients to be honest about their current or recent health conditions, as withholding relevant information could lead to denied claims or policy cancellation.
The Value of an Insurance Broker
At C1 Broker, we strongly recommend consulting with a professional insurance broker to ensure the application process is clear and secure. A broker can help interpret insurers’ requirements accurately, safeguarding the client’s interests and ensuring all necessary information is properly disclosed.
This new rule brings greater fairness to the insurance sector in Portugal while emphasizing the importance of transparency and professional advice. At C1 Broker, we are committed to offering tailored solutions, ensuring our clients access the best insurance options with confidence and peace of mind.
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Contact C1 Broker today and let us guide you in protecting what matters most.
