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Stability Period

Also known as a 'Stability Period Exclusion', or 'Stability Clause'.

A stability period is a clause that defines how long a pre-existing medical condition must remain stable before you qualify for emergency travel medical coverage. “Stable” means no new symptoms, treatments, or medication changes during the specified period, which is typically 90 to 180 days before departure.

This clause ensures travellers are medically stable to reduce the likelihood of claims from ongoing or worsening conditions. Insurers assess stability based on physician reports and prescription history. Any recent changes to dosage or treatment could reset the stability period and limit coverage for that condition.

Example:

If your travel policy requires a 90-day stability period and your blood pressure medication was adjusted 30 days before travel, related expenses may not be covered.

What to Watch For:

Read stability definitions carefully since each insurer sets unique rules. If uncertain, confirm eligibility in writing before traveling to avoid claim denials.

Related Terms

Hospital Room (Semi-Private / Private)

Hospital room coverage pays for the cost of upgrading from a standard ward room to a semi-private or private hospital room. This benefit allows greater privacy and comfort during inpatient stays.

Shared Dispensing Fee / Fee Limit

The shared dispensing fee, or fee limit, refers to the portion of a pharmacy’s dispensing charge that your insurance plan will cover. Pharmacies add this professional fee each time a prescription is filled to cover handling, verification, and counselling.

Short-term Disability Insurance

Short-term disability (STD) insurance provides temporary income replacement when you are unable to work for a limited period due to illness, injury, or surgery. It helps protect your income during the early stages of a disability, usually before long-term disability (LTD) benefits begin. This coverage ensures financial stability while you recover and are expected to return to work within a few weeks or months.

Smoking-Cessation Drugs

Smoking-cessation drugs are prescription medications designed to help individuals quit smoking by reducing nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Examples include bupropion and varenicline. These medications are considered lifestyle-related but medically supported treatments.

Split Modules

Split modules refer to the structure of a health insurance plan that allows members to mix and match different coverage categories, such as drug, dental, and extended health care. Each module operates independently with its own premiums and limits.

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