What is a Permanent exclusions?
Permanent exclusions are treatments and situations a policy never covers, no matter how long you hold it. These are listed in the policy wording and commonly include cosmetic surgery, most dental and vision unless from an accident, and treatments arising from specified excluded causes.
How exclusions work
Every policy has a list of permanent exclusions that sit outside the cover entirely, separate from waiting periods (which are temporary). IRDAI has standardised many exclusion definitions to make policies more comparable.
Reading the exclusions list is the single most useful thing you can do before a claim, because a rejection under a permanent exclusion cannot be appealed the way a documentation issue can.
Common mistakes
- Assuming anything medical is covered; the exclusions list defines the true boundary of the policy.
- Confusing a temporary waiting period with a permanent exclusion.
Frequently asked questions
What is commonly excluded from health insurance?
Typically cosmetic treatment, most routine dental and vision unless accident-related, and treatments from specified excluded causes. Your policy's exclusions section lists the exact items.