What Is a Waiting Period?
When signing up for a medical card in Malaysia, most policyholders assume that coverage begins immediately. However, most medical insurance policies include a waiting period, a defined timeframe after activation begins during which specific medical conditions or treatments may not yet be covered.
This is a standard industry practice to prevent misuse and ensure sound risk management. It’s important to understand these waiting periods to avoid unexpected claim rejections, especially during emergencies.
It is a good idea to understand what is covered and what is not, as well as when the coverage will take effect, whether you are applying for a medical card for the first time or reviewing your current plan. We aim to explain the type of waiting times your medical card may experience, the length of time in different cases, and how you can manage them effectively.
Standard Waiting Period Categories
The waiting period for a medical card differs depending on the type of health condition or procedure involved. Below are the four common waiting period groups you need to know:
| Condition Type |
Typical Waiting Period |
Remarks |
| Accidents |
Immediate |
Coverage begins from day one |
| Common Illnesses |
30 days |
Flu, fever, mild infections, etc. |
| Specified Illnesses |
120 days |
Heart disease, tumors, hypertension, etc. |
Accidents
Most medical cards in Malaysia provide immediate coverage for accidental injuries. This means that hospitalisation or medical treatment needed due to a car crash, slip, or similar accident is usually covered from the date the policy starts.
Common Illnesses
Conditions such as flu, gastritis, or diarrhea typically have a 30-day waiting period. This helps ensure that people don’t buy insurance only when symptoms begin.
Specified Illnesses
These are serious health conditions that often result in high claim amounts, so insurers typically enforce a 120-day waiting period for illnesses such as:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Tumors and cancers
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes complications
FAQs about Waiting Period Medical Cards
How does a medical card waiting period apply?
The waiting period for your medical card begins on the policy’s effective date, not when you receive the card. For example, if your policy starts on January 1st and includes a 30-day waiting period for common illnesses, a claim for the flu made on or after January 31st may be eligible.
Are contestability and waiting periods the same thing?
No. The contestability period is a time frame (typically two years) during which the insurer can review claims or cancel the policy due to misrepresentation. The waiting period refers only to the time when specific benefits become payable.
Can I claim during the waiting period?
In most cases, no, except in the event of an accident. Chronic diagnosis diagnosed and claims for illnesses that occur during the waiting period will be rejected. However, once the waiting period has passed, coverage for other new diagnoses become active.
Why do specified illnesses require a longer wait?
These illnesses are usually chronic, costly, or not immediately obvious. A longer waiting period helps insurers screen out pre-existing conditions and reduce their risk.
How do I know my waiting period?
Your policy summary will state your waiting periods.
Conclusion
Understanding your medical card’s waiting period is just as important as knowing the benefits it provides. It determines when you can begin claiming benefits for specific medical conditions under your coverage. While accidents are normally covered immediately, general illnesses, designated conditions, usually require a waiting period ranging from 30 days.
Being aware of these timelines helps reduce claim rejections and financial stress during urgent situations. Planning, sharing your medical history honestly, and keeping your coverage active are key habits to ensure you’re protected when it matters most. A well-understood waiting period can make a real difference in critical moments.
Let’s Go For Life is an e-commerce platform designed to make getting your medical card simple and stress-free. With transparent conditions, expert support, and access to trusted insurance partners, you can make an informed choice with confidence. So, take that leap now because your future and well-being are worth it.
