subject: Does Travel Insurance Cover Pre-Existing Medical Conditions? [print this page]
When it comes to travel insurance, understanding pre-existing condition coverage can be tricky because each insurance provider handles it in their own way. Most policies do not cover you directly, but certain options and add-ons can still protect you in a medical emergency related to a pre-existing condition. Knowing these rules ahead of time can help you avoid stress and any unexpected costs. Read on to learn how a travel insurance policy handles conditions that already exist. Under What Circumstances Does A Travel Insurance Policy Cover Pre-existing diseases? Generally, treatment for pre-existing conditions is not covered in a travel insurance policy. However, some insurance companies provide financial coverage under some circumstances, such as: Life-Threatening Situations Some insurance companies offer financial coverage in case a pre-existing condition worsens and poses an immediate threat to your health. The insurance company will pay for your medical treatment until your condition stabilises, but only as per policy terms. Pre-Existing Add-ons or Extensions Common travel insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. You need to tell the insurance company about your condition when you buy the policy so that you can get help in case of a medical emergency. In a lot of cases, insurance companies will only cover pre-existing illnesses or injuries if you choose a separate add-on or extension. What Comes Under Pre-Existing Diseases in Travel Insurance? Insurance companies typically cover treatment for specific medical emergencies arising from certain pre-existing conditions. Let us look at the various pre-existing conditions the insurance company considers under its policy. Heart Diseases Diabetes Hypertention Asthama Cancer Physical conditions, such as torn ligaments. Other illnesses or injuries you have not totally recovered from before buying the travel insurance policy. What do Insurance Companies Cover for Pre-Existing Diseases in Travel Insurance? All insurance policies might not provide the same facilities for the treatment of pre-existing diseases in their international travel insurance online policies. However, here is a list of common inclusions. Emergency hospitalisation. Emergency medical evacuation if your treatment is in a different hospital. Life-threatening complications caused by your existing illness or injury. Doctor’s consultation for the treatment of your emergency condition. What is Excluded in Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions? Most insurers do not offer financial help in the following circumstances related to your pre-existing diseases. Planned treatment for your pre-existing diseases. Routine checkups for your existing disease. Non-disclosure of the pre-existing condition to the insurer before buying the policy. Treatment is required for Self-inflicted harm or for ignoring medical advice. How To Raise a Travel Insurance Claim for Issues Related to Pre-Existing Diseases? Here are the steps you must follow to raise claims for emergencies related to pre-existing conditions. Step 1: Review your insurance policy to determine what types of pre-existing conditions your insurer covers. Step 2: Collect the medical documents related to your pre-existing condition, including a written statement from your insurer. Step 3: File a travel insurance claim and explain your medical emergency related to your pre-existing condition. Step 4: Once your insurer approves or denies your claim, receive your medical treatment at a nearby hospital. The Bottom Line Travelling with a pre-existing condition can be risky unless you buy your travel insurance policy from the right insurance company. Various reputable Insurance companies offer financial coverage in case of medical emergencies originating from complications in pre-existing diseases. However, make sure you inform your insurer of your condition in advance and purchase any add-ons or extensions if required. Remember, your insurance will only provide financial help if your health condition worsens significantly. This does not include routine check-ups and planned treatments.
