Whether you are going on a quick break or a longer trip, you must arrange travel insurance to ensure you’re protected.
It’s not a legal requirement, but purchasing the right coverage is highly recommended, even if it’s just a week in the sun on the cards.
When purchasing travel insurance, you must get all the details right. This is especially key for those with pre-existing medical conditions, so you get the right level of cover. Read below for our guide on what pre-existing medical conditions you should declare on travel insurance and what you should tell your insurer.
Key Takeaways
- Pre-existing medical conditions cover diagnosed health conditions or pending diagnoses.
- Always declare medical conditions, even those that may flare up or are typically managed.
- Some policies may require you to answer questions or take part in medical screening.
- Failure to disclose a pre-existing medical condition could invalidate your claim.
What Medical Conditions Need to Be Declared for Travel Insurance?
You are required to disclose all medical conditions that are requested during the travel insurance medical screening; some more common conditions include but are not limited to:
Heart Conditions
Such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, for example.
Diabetes
Both type one and type two diabetes.
Asthma and Respiratory Conditions
Ranging from mild to severe respiratory conditions such as asthma and cystic fibrosis.
Chronic Illnesses
Cancer, Crohn’s disease, and IBS are examples of chronic, long-lasting illnesses.
Joint and Bone Inflammation
Such as arthritis, rheumatism, and gout.
Mental Health Issues
Physical issues aren’t the only medical conditions that need to be declared. If you have experienced mental health issues such as anxiety, eating disorders, and depression, these should also be noted.
What Is Considered A Pre-Existing Medical Condition?
A pre-existing medical condition is an illness or injury that exists before or at the time of taking out an insurance policy.
Can I Get Travel Insurance With Pre-Existing Medical Conditions?
More specialist insurance policies will ensure that you are covered, and you won’t find yourself with an invalidated policy at the time of making a claim.
That is why it is key to declare all pre-existing medical conditions to your insurer, even smaller issues that you would assume don’t count. You may also need to complete medical screening, but this will ensure that your insurer can provide the right, tailored policy for your requirements.
Being open and honest will also mean you won’t face paying for medical treatment. In some destinations, this can turn into thousands of pounds.
How Does Specialist Medical Insurance For Travel Work?
A specialist medical insurance policy for travel will provide you with a tailored solution to your travel insurance. You won’t have to worry about being underinsured, and you can relax on your holiday knowing that should your condition flare up or you need medical attention, the costs incurred will be covered.
Do I Need to Tell Insurers About Changes To My Health?
Yes, most insurers require you to update them with any changes to your medical conditions’. Changes to your health that could impact your travel insurance include:
- The development of a new medical condition
- Changes to a pre-existing medical condition
- Changes in treatment or medication
Updating your policy may impact the price, but this will be considerably less than the medical costs that could be incurred should you not share this information.
You should update your policy before you start travelling, at the earliest opportunity.
Getting Travel Insurance With A Pre-Existing Medical Condition
To start your journey to getting travel insurance with a pre-existing medical condition, follow these steps:
1. Get A Quote
Complete the insurance application and tell your insurer if you, or anyone in your party, has any condition requested or asked about during medical screening.
2. Compare
Check the details of your policy and ensure that it offers all you are looking for, as well as any clauses or exclusions related to medical issues.
3. Apply
Once you have shared honest details about your medical history, you will likely need to answer some questions or have a medical screening. This may seem intrusive to some, but it is key to make sure that you are properly covered.
Where Can I Get A Good Deal On Travel Insurance?
If you are looking for travel insurance with pre-existing medical conditions, speak to our experts here at Brunel Insurance and give us a call on 01934 643400. We have a wide range of providers who can quote for most individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.