You must declare any medical conditions you have when applying for a travel insurance policy. But, as not all insurers cover certain medical conditions and those that do will charge you more for cover, it might be tempting to ‘forget’ about an ailment. The problem with this approach is if you don’t declare a condition you’ve been tested for it diagnosed with your policy could be invalid. Given travel insurance isn’t a legal requirement, this would mean you’ve wasted any money paid for the policy.
The good news is some travel insurers will still cover you for pre-existing conditions, however, you might not have as much choice as others. This cover might cost a few pounds more, because there’s an increased chance of you needing treatment during your holiday. But it would be money well spent if you did fall ill far from home.
Not all insurers will cover certain medical conditions."
Insurers insist you tell them about conditions like:
Cancer
Heart conditions; including angina
Diabetes
Stomach and intestinal problems; like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Crohn's disease
Psychological issues; like depression or anxiety
Breathing problems; like asthma or emphysema
Arthritis
However, you should mention any medical conditions you have, even if you do not think they are serious.
Once you have completed the medical questionnaire the insurer will offer you:
Cover, with no additional cost
Cover for your condition, with an extra charge
Cover that does not include claims relating to your condition
No cover at all
What you’re offered will depend on how serious your conditions are, which conditions your insurer will cover, where you’re travelling to and for how long.
If you’re not offered cover for your condition try another insurer. There will be companies that can cover your condition so it is important to shop around and get as many quotes as possible.
Look for insurance that can cover your conditions for the best price, but make sure the whole policy suits your needs.
This guide explains what a travel insurance policy should protect you against, as well as what levels of cover you should look out for.
For the cheapest possible cover, try these 8 ways to cut your travel insurance costs.
You can still get a quote through money.co.uk if you have a pre-existing condition, including cancer or severe heart or respiratory complaints. People who have had strokes or are terminally ill can also get a quote.
Some insurers might not cover you if you already have a severe medical disorder or a number of conditions, and others may only offer insurance at a much higher price.
If you’re unable to find suitable cover, contact MoneyHelper. It has a directory of insurers willing to cover customers with pre-existing medical conditions.
The British Insurance Brokers’ Association should also be able to help.
People who have had strokes or are terminally ill can also get a quote."
A pre-existing medical condition can be any illness or injury you’ve had treatment for or been diagnosed with. Some insurers only count conditions you’ve had in the last few years, so check each policy you’re considering.
Yes, but you will need to declare your condition when you apply, and it may cost more.
Yes. If you don’t declare them, your cover could be invalid and any medical claims will be rejected.
No, but you should never travel without it because medical treatment abroad can cost tens of thousands of pounds or more.
The best way to get the cheapest deal is to shop around for quotes. You can also try these 8 ways to cut your travel insurance costs.
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