What types of underwriting are available?
When you apply for private health insurance, the insurer needs to assess your health risk so they can decide what cover to offer and how much to charge. This process is called underwriting. There are different underwriting approaches that insurers use to evaluate applications, and understanding these can help you choose the most suitable policy and avoid unexpected exclusions.
Underwriting affects what conditions are covered, whether any exclusions apply and, in some cases, the cost you pay. Here are the main types of underwriting you are likely to encounter.
What it is:
You complete a full medical questionnaire, and the insurer reviews your medical history in detail.
How it works:
The insurer may apply specific exclusions for any pre‑existing conditions or symptoms. Everything else is covered immediately (subject to policy terms).
Best for:
People with a simple medical history who want certainty about exclusions from day one.
Advantages:
Clear, upfront list of exclusions.
May offer stronger long‑term clarity for ongoing health needs.
Considerations:
Application takes longer.
More exclusions applied if you have complex medical history.
What it is:
A simple, quick underwriting method requiring no medical questionnaire.
How it works:
Any condition you’ve had symptoms of, treatment for, or advice about in the past 5 years is excluded at the start. These conditions may become covered if you have two consecutive years after the policy start with:
no symptoms
no treatment
no medication
no medical advice
Best for:
Fast setup with minimal disclosure.
Advantages:
No long forms.
Past conditions can become covered over time.
Considerations:
Initial exclusions are broader.
Insurer may request medical records before paying a claim.
Learn more about private medical insurance to see how moratorium policies work.
What it is:
CMORI is designed for people switching from one moratorium policy to another without restarting the 5‑year look‑back period.
How it works:
Your existing moratorium terms continue with the new insurer. If you have already completed the two-year symptom-free period for a condition, that condition may remain covered with no new exclusion.
Best for:
Customers who already have a moratorium policy and want continuity when switching insurers.
Advantages:
Prevents you from “starting again” with a new 5-year exclusion window.
Preserves progress towards removing moratorium exclusions.
Considerations:
Claims history may be reviewed.
Not all insurers offer CMORI; availability varies.
(Also known as “Switch Underwriting”)
What it is:
Designed for people switching from an existing policy who want continuity of cover for pre-existing conditions already covered.
How it works:
Your existing exclusions and cover terms transfer to the new insurer.
Best for:
People looking to move insurer but keep cover for chronic or previously claimed-for conditions.
Advantages:
Maintains cover for ongoing conditions.
Avoids starting a new underwriting assessment.
Considerations:
Existing exclusions remain in place and can’t be removed.
(Mainly for company / group schemes)
What it is:
All employees are covered regardless of medical history.
How it works:
No personal exclusions. No questionnaires or medical checks.
Best for:
Medium to large group schemes (e.g., corporate PMI).
Advantages:
Most comprehensive type of underwriting.
Straightforward onboarding for employees.
Considerations:
Higher premium.
Rarely available to individuals or small groups.
Choosing the Right Underwriting Type
The best underwriting route depends on your circumstances, age and health history. Some factors to consider include:
• Whether you have pre-existing conditions
• How soon you want cover in place
• Whether you prefer clarity around exclusions or quicker acceptance
Need help picking the right underwriting option? Coversure Health’s expert advisers can guide you through each approach, explain how it affects your cover and find policies that match your needs and budget. Get a free quote today or contact us for tailored advice.
