Acquiring travel insurance when dealing with a pre-existing medical condition may present its challenges, but it is indeed feasible. Below is a breakdown of what you need to be mindful of:
Cover with a Pre-existing Condition
In essence, yes, you can get cover. However, not every insurance provider will accommodate you, and those that do might impose higher premiums. This stems from the fact that individuals with pre-existing medical conditions statistically tend to make more claims. Explore policies that cater to your needs.
Declarations about your condition during the insurance application process are critical for ensuring cover. Most insurers mandate the disclosure of specific health issues, including but not limited to:
- Cancer
- Heart conditions
- Diabetes
- Psychological issues (e.g., depression or anxiety)
- Respiratory problems (e.g., asthma or emphysema)
- Arthritis
- Stomach and bowel issues (e.g., Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Crohn’s disease)
Additionally, you must disclose any recent treatment or referrals to a hospital doctor or surgeon within the last 12 months for any reason. Failing to disclose this information may render your policy invalid.
Pregnancy as a Pre-existing Condition
Typically, pregnancy is not categorized as a pre-existing medical condition unless there have been complications. However, cover may have limitations, often up to around 37 weeks, with lower limits for multiple pregnancies therefore it is important to check your policy terms and conditions.
Claimable Situations
If you opt for travel insurance covering pre-existing conditions, claims arising directly or indirectly from declared conditions are generally covered. For instance:
- Respiratory issues resulting in a chest infection requiring medical attention abroad
- High blood pressure leading to a heart attack or stroke during your holiday
It’s always important to check your policy terms and conditions for any exclusions and limitations in relation to pre-existing medical conditions.
Securing Cover with Medical Issues: Step-by-Step Guide
- Search for policies by comparing travel insurance with medical conditions.
- Obtain online quotes and declare any pre-existing medical conditions.
- Complete medical screening questions related to your conditions.
- Confirm if cover is available for your condition and if additional costs apply.
- Ensure that the policy also covers essential aspects like holiday cancellation and personal possessions.
Declaring Your Conditions: The Process
When obtaining a travel insurance quote, you will undergo a ‘medical screening’ involving a series of questions about your condition. Insurers may offer online forms or request a phone call for more in-depth discussions. Providing honest and accurate responses is crucial to avoid claim rejection.
Post-Purchase: What Happens If You Fall Ill?
If you fall ill after purchasing your policy, it’s imperative to promptly inform your insurer, especially if the condition wasn’t initially covered.
Costs Associated with Covering Your Condition
Factors influencing costs include your medical conditions, age, trip duration, and destination. Travelling to countries with expensive healthcare, like the United States, may result in higher charges or potential refusal of cover.
Affordability Concerns: What If It Costs Too Much?
If covering medical conditions becomes excessively expensive, you may choose to exclude them from your policy. However, exercise caution, as this means forgoing cover for claims related to those conditions.
Finding Affordable Cover
To secure the most cost-effective cover for medical conditions during travel, seek and compare multiple quotes to comprehensively assess costs.
For a quote for Travel Insurance with Medical Conditions CLICK HERE or Call us on 01934 643400
