What term describes a health condition that exists before seeking care?

• A. Pre-existing Condition
• B. Acute Condition
• C. Chronic Condition
• D. Wellness Visit

Answer: (A)

The concept here is timing relative to the care encounter. A pre-existing condition is a health issue that is already present before you seek care or before a new coverage period begins. That makes it the best fit for describing a condition that exists prior to seeking care. An acute condition refers to something that comes on suddenly and requires immediate attention, not to when the person sought care. A chronic condition means long-lasting or ongoing, but it doesn’t specify that it was present before the current care encounter. A wellness visit is a preventive check-up and isn’t about describing a condition at all.