If you’ve ever had a serious medical problem in the past, you’ll probably know that it can play havoc with travel insurance. This is because insurance companies want to protect themselves should the condition reoccur, and therefore ramp up their premiums in order to do so. There are ways in which the cost of insurance can be lowered though, as you’ll see below…
Do You Need to Declare Pre-Existing Conditions?
Declaring any pre-existing conditions when applying for travel insurance is an absolute must, even if you don’t deem them to be too serious. Even omitting a mild case of asthma could completely invalidate an insurance policy, causing claims for totally unrelated conditions to be declined. The basic rule of thumb is this: if you aren’t sure whether to include something, write it down anyway.
You will need to declare a medical condition if you, or anyone else insured on the policy, have:
- Ever received treatment for any respiratory conditions (relating to lungs or breathing)
- Heart conditions
- Any neurological conditions (including stroke and epilepsy)
- Cancer
- Blood circulatory conditions
- Any diabetic conditions
- Any renal, liver or kidney conditions
- Any psychiatric or psychological conditions (including anxiety, stress and depression)
- Any medical condition for which you have received surgery, in or out-patient treatment, tests or investigations in a hospital, clinic or GP surgery within the last 24 months.
- any medical condition for which you have been prescribed medication in the last five years
Will an EHIC Card Help?
An EHIC card allows UK residents to access medical treatment in any EU country, and they will only be charged the same rate as locals. This is great for minor conditions or issues such as a trip to a GP or getting some stitches, but isn’t good when someone needs serious and prolonged medical assistance. Therefore, an EHIC card should be complemented by comprehensive travel insurance, so that all bases are covered.
Reducing Costs for Serious Conditions
Some people want to travel even though they are suffering from a serious condition such as a heart problem or cancer. Most insurance companies will try and put you off with high premiums though, as they see the risk as far too great. Luckily though, here at PayingTooMuch.com we offer excellent rates for customers with severe pre-existing medical conditions. It is also possible to get an EHIC Plus card, which is an extension of the EHIC scheme. This covers most pre-existing conditions, although you should check the small print before signing up.
What Happens If I Need Medical Attention Abroad?
Whether an emergency situation or not, you (or someone acting on your behalf) should always contact your insurance company before agreeing to any treatment. They will be able to advise you of the best course of action and pre-accept your claim, negating any concerns over whether the claim will be accepted further down the line.
Most insurers would expect you to pay the cost of any outpatient treatment (to the value of £500) up front and then claim the costs back upon your return home. For any emergency or more expensive, inpatient medical treatment, your insurer will liaise with the hospital or medical facility treating you and arrange payment with them directly.
The Easiest Way to Get the Best Deal
There is one method above all others that will lead to the best possible deal on travel insurance, regardless of your personal circumstances: using a price comparison tool, such as the one on this website. You’ll be able to fill in all details once, and then receive quotes from numerous travel insurance providers, thus allowing you to pick the one that best suits your needs. So, if you’re travelling soon, why not use our travel insurance comparison tool today and get the cover you need?
If you need any help, or have any questions on what you should declare, don’t hesitate to give our travel team a call on 01243 784000.
