The initial period within which any claims made will not be entertained. Normally, all the new policies come with a minimum 30 days waiting period wherein the insured person cannot make a claim for the disease contracted during the first 30 days. This is to avoid someone taking a policy in order to get a hospitalization claim immediately after purchase of the policy. The waiting period does not usually apply to accidental injuries, or to renewals of policies. Specific waiting periods: 12, 24 or 48 months for named diseases. After 48 months all diseases are covered.