The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

(1) "Chronic condition" means a condition that can be treated or managed, but not cured.

(2) "Congenital anomaly" and "congenital disorder" mean a condition that is present from birth, whether inherited or caused by the environment, which may cause or contribute to illness or disease.

(3) "Hereditary disorder" means an abnormality that is genetically transmitted from parent to offspring and may cause illness or disease.

(4) "Orthopedic" refers to conditions affecting the bones, skeletal muscle, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and joints. "Orthopedic" includes, but is not limited to, elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc degeneration, patellar luxation, and ruptured cranial cruciate ligaments. It does not include cancers or metabolic, hemopoietic, or autoimmune diseases.

(5) "Pet insurance" means a property insurance policy that provides coverage for accidents and illnesses of pets.

(6)(a) "Preexisting condition" means any condition for which any of the following are true prior to the effective date of a pet insurance policy or during any waiting period:

(i) A veterinarian provided medical advice;

(ii) The pet received previous treatment; or

(iii) Based on information from verifiable sources, the pet had signs or symptoms directly related to the condition for which a claim is being made.

(b) A condition for which coverage is afforded on a policy cannot be considered a preexisting condition on any renewal of the policy.

(7) "Renewal" means to issue and deliver at the end of an insurance policy period a policy which supersedes a policy previously issued and delivered by the same pet insurer or affiliated pet insurer and which provides types and limits of coverage substantially similar to those contained in the policy being superseded.

(8) "Veterinarian" means an individual who holds a valid license to practice veterinary medicine from the appropriate licensing entity in the jurisdiction in which he or she practices.

(9) "Veterinary expenses" means the costs associated with medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment provided by a veterinarian including, but not limited to, the cost of drugs prescribed by a veterinarian.

(10) "Waiting period" means the period of time specified in a pet insurance policy that is required to transpire before some or all of the coverage in the policy can begin.

(11) "Wellness program" means a subscription or reimbursement-based program that is separate from an insurance policy that provides goods and services to promote the general health, safety, or well-being of the pet.

Effective date—2023 c 42: See note following RCW 48.205.010.