A Guide to Travel Insurance for People with Pre-Existing Conditions and Serious Illnesses

Travel is a great way to explore the world and relax, but for people with pre-existing conditions, preparation before traveling needs to be more thorough. Travel insurance designed specifically for people with pre-existing conditions can not only provide regular medical coverage, but also cover special needs related to cancer, such as emergency medical evacuation, treatment interruption coverage, etc. This article will give you a detailed introduction on how to choose travel insurance for people with pre-existing conditions, helping you travel with peace of mind.

Benefits of buying travel insurance for people with pre-existing conditions or serious illnesses

For travellers with pre-existing conditions, standard travel insurance policies may not provide sufficient coverage. Specialised policies offer several key benefits:

1. Medical coverage: These policies can cover treatment for flare-ups or complications related to your condition while abroad.
2. Emergency medical evacuation: If local facilities can’t adequately treat your condition, you may be transported to a suitable medical facility or back home.
3. Trip cancellation coverage: If your condition worsens before your trip, you may be able to recoup non-refundable expenses.
4. Peace of mind: Knowing you’re covered allows you to relax and enjoy your travels without worrying about potential medical bills.

You can’t buy travel insurance with these pre-existing conditions

While many insurers offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, some conditions may be excluded or result in higher premiums. These often include:

1. Terminal illnesses with a short life expectancy
2. Recent cancer diagnoses or ongoing cancer treatment
3. Certain mental health conditions, especially if recently diagnosed or hospitalised
4. Heart conditions that have resulted in surgery within the past year
5. Conditions that require regular hospital visits or dialysis

It’s important to note that exclusions vary between insurers, and some specialised providers may offer coverage for conditions that others exclude. Always disclose your full medical history when applying for insurance to ensure you’re adequately covered.

Look for these travel insurance providers in the UK if you have a serious illness or disability

Several UK insurers specialise in providing coverage for travellers with pre-existing conditions or disabilities:

1. AllClear Travel Insurance: Offers coverage for hundreds of medical conditions and has no upper age limit.
2. Staysure: Provides tailored policies for over 50s and those with pre-existing conditions.
3. Free Spirit: Specialises in coverage for people with medical conditions and disabilities, with no upper age limit.
4. InsureandGo: Offers coverage for many pre-existing conditions and provides a medical screening process.
5. Avanti Travel Insurance: Provides specialist medical travel insurance for all ages and many pre-existing conditions.

When choosing a provider, compare policies carefully and ensure they offer adequate coverage for your specific needs.

The price of travel insurance for all ages

Travel insurance costs can vary significantly based on factors such as age, destination, trip duration, and medical conditions. Here’s a general overview of price ranges for all ages (18-70+ years old) for a two-week trip to Europe:

• Basic coverage (no pre-existing conditions): £20-£50
• Mid-range coverage (some pre-existing conditions): £50-£150
• Comprehensive coverage (multiple pre-existing conditions): £150-£500+

Remember that these are rough estimates, and actual prices may vary considerably depending on individual circumstances. Always obtain quotes from multiple providers to find the best coverage for your needs and budget.

Tips for finding the right travel insurance with pre-existing conditions

1. Be honest: Disclose all medical conditions, even if they seem minor.
2. Shop around: Compare quotes and coverage from multiple providers.
3. Read the fine print: Understand exactly what is and isn’t covered.
4. Consider annual policies: If you travel frequently, these may offer better value.
5. Declare changes: If your health status changes after purchasing a policy, inform your insurer immediately.

Finding travel insurance with pre-existing conditions or serious illnesses can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By understanding the benefits, knowing which conditions might be excluded, and researching specialised providers, you can find a policy that offers the protection you need. Remember to always read policy documents carefully and seek professional advice if you’re unsure about any aspects of your coverage.

The shared information of this article is up-to-date as of the publishing date. For more up-to-date information, please conduct your own research.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.