Story at-a-glance
- Yes, you can still apply for disability insurance with a pre-existing condition.
- The insurer may add an exclusion, charge a higher premium, or request more information.
- Some conditions can still be covered, depending on severity and stability.
- Applying while your health is stable improves your chances.
- There are no-exam options available through select programs for residents and fellows.
Don’t Let a Health Issue Stop You
It’s common for doctors and dentists to wonder if they can still qualify for disability insurance after being diagnosed or treated for something.
Whether it’s migraines, anxiety, back pain, or something more serious—you’re not alone, and you still have options.
The key is to understand how pre-existing conditions are handled and how to apply strategically.
What Counts as a Pre-Existing Condition?
Any condition you’ve been treated for, diagnosed with, or discussed with a doctor could be considered pre-existing. This includes:
- Mental health concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression)
- Chronic pain (e.g., back, neck, joints)
- Migraines or headaches
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes or autoimmune conditions
- Surgeries or physical therapy in the past few years
Even if a condition is minor or well-managed, insurers still consider it in the underwriting process.
What Can Happen in Underwriting?
When you apply for disability insurance, the insurance company will review your:
- Medical history (from your records)
- Prescription history
- Current health status
If you have a pre-existing condition, the insurer may:
- Approve you with no change
- Approve you with an exclusion rider (they won’t cover claims related to that condition)
- Increase your premium slightly
- Or, in rare cases, decline your application
What You Can Do
Here’s how to improve your chances:
- Apply early – Before new health issues appear
- Work with an expert – We know how each company handles specific conditions
- Use simplified or GSI programs – Some residents and fellows qualify for no-medical-exam policies with guaranteed approval, even with pre-existing conditions
- Get multiple quotes – Not all companies treat the same condition the same way
What About Exclusions?
If your policy has an exclusion, that condition won’t be covered. For example, if you had back surgery, your policy may not pay for future back-related claims—but everything else is still covered.
And some exclusions can be reviewed and removed later if your condition remains stable.
Final Thought
Having a pre-existing condition doesn’t mean you can’t get disability insurance—it just means you need the right guidance. Most doctors still qualify for great coverage that protects the rest of their income, even with an exclusion.
Want to see what’s possible for your situation? Click the button below to get a confidential quote.
We’ll guide you through the process and help you find the best option—no pressure, just smart planning.
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