What to consider regarding Corona when taking out health insurance

When taking out a health insurance policy one must deal with the corona question as an infection can be relevant for the acceptance by the privat health insurance company.

At the beginning of the Corona pandemic, many questions arose for private insurance companies and their customers. For example, what role does an infection play in the conclusion of a new contract? Many questions have since been clarified.

The question of whether it is necessary to declare a corona infection in the health questionnaire of a private health or occupational disability insurance policy comes up frequently. Many consumers are concerned that they will no longer be able to take out private insurance policies where those questions are relevant for taking out the insurance.

This concern can be allayed, at least for those who have fully recovered from the disease. "If someone has fully recovered, there is basically nothing standing in the way of a contract," says a spokesperson for the German insurance association GDV. However, he qualifies: Those w ho have permanent health problems after a corona infection must expect surcharges or may not get a policy. However, this has always been the case with other diseases.

The German Insurance Association emphasises that it is a misunderstanding to believe that the industry deals with Covid19 differently than with other diseases. The virus with the technical name "Sars-CoV-2" was indeed considered "novel" at the beginning of 2020. But the calculations insurers make to cover the risks associated with the virus follow the same pattern as for all other diseases.

In any case, you should always answer questions about a Corona infection by the insurance companies truthfully and enquire with the insurer if you are in doubt. Many private health insurers ask about a Corona infection on their own initiative. You have to give correct and complete information, otherwise your insurance cover will be at risk.