13/08/2024

A short guide to travel insurance for people with pre-existing medical conditions

Travel

Travel insurance is vital if you’re planning a trip away, even more so if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

Things can get more complicated when shopping around on comparison sites as you can be restricted with the information you wish to declare to the insurer with no human interaction. Whereas with us, you’ll receive a personal service from a specialist travel insurance advisor to confirm you’re fully covered. 

It is reported that around 70% of insurers exclude pre-existing conditions from their travel insurance cover. So, if you have a medical condition you need to make sure it’s included in the cover.

In this article, you will find out all you need to know about taking out travel insurance with a pre-existing medical condition.

Can I still get travel insurance if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

Yes, you can still get travel insurance if you have a pre-existing condition in most cases. It is important you declare this when obtaining a quote so that you are eligible to claim for any treatment for your medical condition while travelling.

Depending on your circumstances, you will be asked a series of questions about your medical history. You should be honest and provide accurate information when asked, as failing to do so could invalidate your claim.

At the same time, you might be asked whether you’d prefer to take out a single trip or an annual, multi-trip travel insurance policy. Not sure what the difference is? Learn about it here.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re jetting off to Europe, or planning a cruise or winter sports holiday, having travel insurance in place to cover your pre-existing medical condition is essential. Speak to us about your medical history and we can shop around with our range of insurers to find the right policy for you.

A doctor taking blood pressure from a patient.

What medical conditions do I need to declare?

You will need to disclose any medical conditions that have required treatment at a hospital (whether as an inpatient or outpatient), clinic or GP surgery. You will also need to disclose if you have a condition that has required surgery, or if you have a condition that you have been prescribed medication for.

New research reveals that of the travel insurance claims in the past year, 30% of people claimed to help cover the cost of medical treatment when abroad. This further validates the need to declare your pre-existing medical condition, otherwise any related claim would be invalidated.

Travel insurance pre-existing medical conditions list

You will need to declare if you have any of the following medical conditions:

  • Any heart or circulatory conditions
  • Any type of diabetes
  • A stroke, high blood pressure or central nervous system disorder
  • Any terminal illness
  • Any type of cancer (whether in remission or not)
  • Any lung or breathing condition
  • An organ transplant or dialysis
  • Psychological or psychiatric problems such as anxiety or depression

You will need to declare if you have any other serious or recurring medical condition, been prescribed medication or received treatment, or have been referred to a specialist at a hospital/clinic for tests or treatments. You will also need to declare if you have been placed on a waiting list for treatment or for further investigation.

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This list isn’t exhaustive. If you have a pre-existing medical condition that isn’t listed above, don’t hesitate to still get in touch as we should still be able to cover you. If you have a complex medical condition, get in touch so that we can make a more detailed evaluation of your circumstances.

A pre-existing condition is specified by a set time frame by the insurer. For example, if you have had a stroke three years ago, this may fall into the time frame set by the insurer and so you should declare it.

If you are unsure whether to disclose a medical condition that you have had previously, it is best to declare it anyway in case you need treatment for it while you are away. If you are diagnosed with a new condition after taking out your insurance, you should let your provider know as soon as possible so that you remain eligible to claim. Remember, it’s always better to declare, than not.

An icon of an older man lifting his hat in a jolly way.

Does age matter with a pre-existing medical condition?

 

In most cases, insurers will provide a travel insurance quote despite your age – whether you’re 23, or over the age of 80 with a pre-existing medical condition. But if your medical condition is too high of a perceived risk for the insurers liking, some may not wish to provide a quote.

We would be more than happy to speak to our range of insurers to see if we can get you the cover you need though.

An icon indicating medical conditions for an insurance company.

Why insurers need to know about pre-existing medical conditions

 

If you do not disclose your pre-existing medical condition and end up requiring treatment while away, your claim may be rejected and your policy voided. This means you would end up paying for the treatment yourself, which can be extremely expensive depending on your condition.

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Get a quote for Travel Insurance with a Pre-Existing Medical Condition

Looking for travel insurance that covers your pre-existing medical condition? We can certainly help. Fill in your details below and one of our Personal Client Managers will contact you shortly.

Travel Insurance with Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: FAQs

What is considered a pre-existing medical condition for travel insurance?

A pre-existing medical condition is any illness or injury you have before purchasing travel insurance. This includes chronic conditions like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, terminal illnesses, as well as any recent surgeries or treatments.

Can I still get travel insurance with a pre-existing medical condition?

It depends on your circumstances, but in most cases you should still be able to get travel insurance with a pre-existing medical condition – even if you’re 34 or over the age of 65.

Some insurers are more open to insuring people with medical conditions than others. We work with some insurers that provide cover in these instances, but it’s not guaranteed we’ll always be able to cover people with serious medical conditions or illnesses.

Get in touch and we can look into it for you.

I’m over 70. Can I still get travel insurance with a pre-existing medical condition?

This depends on the insurer. While some insurers will insure people of all ages such as people over the age of 70, when there is a serious medical condition or illness, you’re not guaranteed to get a quote.

You should declare any medical conditions when obtaining a quote and speak to an insurer that specialises in travel insurance to find a policy that suits your specific needs.

I’m over 80. Can I still get travel insurance with a pre-existing medical condition?

This depends on the insurer. While some insurers will insure people of all ages such as people over the age of 80, when there is a serious medical condition or illness, you’re not guaranteed to get a quote. Age is also a risk factor so your travel insurance premium is likely to be affected.

You should declare any medical conditions when obtaining a quote and speak to an insurer that specialises in travel insurance to find a policy that suits your specific needs.

What happens if I don’t declare a pre-existing medical condition?

If you don’t declare a pre-existing medical condition and need treatment while travelling, your insurance claim may be denied, and your policy could be voided. This means you would be responsible for all medical costs. Always declare all medical conditions to ensure you are fully covered and avoid any issues with claims.