Travel insurance for pre-existing conditions - is it really required?
It is a confusing decision that is hard to make unless you know what it entails and how it can turn out to be beneficial.
Ensuring you have the right and adequate coverage can protect you from unexpected medical expenses in various destinations. By comprehending the specific information related to travel insurance and pre-existing conditions, you can make a wise choice.
Here is a blog that can help you make this decision, paving the way for a better and safer trip. Before we start, let’s understand how travel insurance companies consider pre-existing conditions.
What are Pre-Existing Health Conditions?
A pre-existing health condition, according to a travel insurance provider, is any medical condition that exists before you buy your travel insurance plan. Generally, it refers to any health condition diagnosed or treated within the last 48 months.
It can include chronic illnesses, surgeries, or any other health condition for which you have been receiving medical attention prior to purchasing the travel insurance policy.
Why is Pre-Existing Travel Insurance Cover Important?
For covering medical expenses arising out of pre-existing health conditions
Travel insurance for pre-existing conditions is necessary to cover any related medical expenses during your trip. For instance, if you recently underwent surgery and developed symptoms requiring immediate medical attention while travelling abroad, having this coverage ensures protection against the applicable medical expenses.
For adequate coverage to manage treatment expenses
Having holiday insurance for pre-existing conditions with adequate coverage will ensure that you are fully protected against the financial consequences of medical treatments.
For peace of mind
Knowing that you are fully covered for medical expenses arising out of pre-existing health conditions, you can onboard a trip with peace of mind.
Why Should You Declare Pre-Existing Diseases to Your Insurer?
To assess the financial coverage required
Being transparent about your pre-existing health conditions and disclosing accurate information will help your insurer assess the financial coverage you need and establish the applicable terms and conditions.
This ensures any unforeseen medical treatment expenses related to your pre-existing conditions are adequately covered during your travel.
To avoid claim rejections
Failing to disclose details of your pre-existing health conditions to your insurer can lead to claim rejections when you file a claim for related medical expenses.
Do Travel Insurance Providers Cover Pre-Existing Conditions?
The inclusion of pre-existing health conditions in travel insurance plans varies among different insurance providers.
Some insurers offer comprehensive coverage for pre-existing health conditions, including specific terms and conditions. Others may provide this coverage as an optional add-on cover, available for an additional premium. Some insurance providers may even exclude this coverage entirely.
Therefore, it is important to read through the policy terms and conditions and discuss the coverage and its applicability with your insurer before purchasing the travel insurance policy or holiday insurance for existing conditions.
Also Read:
Does travel insurance cover medical expenses?
How Does Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions Affect Your Premium?
Travel insurance plans with pre-existing health conditions typically have higher premiums, considering the increased risk of medical claims. Although this results in increased financial commitment, it is crucial to weigh the additional and extensive protection.
How to Decide If You Need Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions?
Assess your health and travel risks to determine if a pre-existing travel insurance cover is essential.
If you are suffering from a pre-existing health condition and anticipate potential risks while travelling, consider purchasing travel insurance with pre-existing health conditions covered. It will ensure coverage for the applicable expenses and offer peace of mind to enjoy your travel.
Reliance General Insurance covers pre-existing diseases with the specific terms and conditions applicable. However, it does not cover pre-existing diseases incurred due to alcohol or drug abuse, self-inflicting injuries or suicide, mental disorders and sexually transmitted diseases.
Explore our
overseas travel insurance plans and make your trips better and safer. We offer wide-ranging and customised travel insurance plans catering to your specific requirements. Our
Schengen travel insurance plan is designed exclusively to offer comprehensive coverage for travellers exploring Schengen countries, whether for vacation or other purposes.
Wrapping Up
Travel insurance for pre-existing conditions will cover medical expenses related to any health issues you may have before your trip, subject to the policy terms and conditions.
If you suffer from any health issues, it is important to have pre-existing coverage with an adequate sum insured to cover unforeseen expenses. Ensure that you disclose any critical information concerning your health with your insurer prior to purchasing the travel insurance policy to assess the coverage required and avoid unnecessary claim rejections.
While a pre-existing travel insurance cover adds up to your premium cost, it is certainly worth the additional and extensive protection offered.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do travel insurance companies check for pre-existing conditions?
Travel insurance companies can ask for your medical history, but they may not have a specific process to check for pre-existing medical conditions. However, it should be your responsibility to be transparent about your pre-existing medical condition to cover any such related medical expenses.
How to find the best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions?
To find the best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions, assess your coverage needs, compare different insurers and their policies, review their policy terms and conditions and choose the most affordable option for your specific healthcare requirements. Take expert help or discuss with your peers before making a decision.
When should I purchase travel insurance for pre-existing conditions?
You should consider purchasing a travel insurance plan for pre-existing conditions before or at the time of booking your trip. This will ensure you meet the requirements and undergo additional processes well in advance if necessary.