Qatar told me I’d only avoid the fee if I’m diagnosed as terminal

I had to cancel a flight this week because of a health issue. Been to the ER four times in the past month and still waiting to see a specialist for an actual diagnosis.

Called Qatar to cancel and explained it was medical. The agent asked me to elaborate, then said it doesn’t qualify unless it’s a terminal disease. Otherwise I owe a $300+ cancellation fee.

I asked about a credit instead. He said I could keep the ticket open, but I’d still pay the same penalty plus any fare difference later. So basically no real benefit.

Then he actually said I could wait and if the specialist diagnoses something terminal, I wouldn’t have to pay.

I honestly didn’t know what to say to that.

Just sharing in case anyone assumes “medical reason” automatically means flexibility.