Travel Insurance With Medical Conditions
Compare travel insurance with cover for pre-existing medical conditions through theidol.com[1]
Covid-19 (coronavirus) – important information
From 17th May 2021, a travel traffic light system is being introduced and trips to green list countries will be legally permitted if you live in England. Strict border control measures will remain in place for your return to the UK. Before you buy, you should consider the implications of your destination moving from a green list country to amber or red as you may incur additional costs and/or face travel restrictions that will not be covered by your travel insurance. The traffic light rules only dictate what you have to do on returning to England – so even if a country is on the green list, you still need to check your destination's entry requirements and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advice for travelling there. If the Foreign Office has advised against travel to your destination and you still decide to travel, you will not be covered by any travel insurance policy you purchase. A few insurers do offer cover If you are an essential traveller, however if you are in doubt or have any queries, please check the policy wording, or contact your chosen provider before purchasing. Until dates have been set to permit non-essential international travel from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland it is important that you follow all the rules that apply to your country of residence.
Can I get travel insurance if I have pre-existing medical conditions?
Yes. Travel insurers will still cover you for most conditions, but you'll have a limited choice. Not all providers will offer to cover you.
If the insurer expects you’ll need treatment during your trip, that means you’re a greater risk and more likely to make a claim. Your premium will probably be more expensive than if you are travelling without a medical condition.
Your travel insurance will cover you for medical treatment, repatriation, cancellation cover, loss of theft of your luggage or personal belongings.
Travelling with serious pre-existing medical conditions
Our panel includes travel insurance providers that can give you a quote for policies with cover for many declared serious medical conditions.
If you have more extreme and serious medical conditions, Money and Pension Service (MaPs) has launched a directory of insurance providers who may be able to give you a quote over the phone.
You can find the directory at the Money Advice Service or call MaPs on 0800 138 7777.
What conditions will I need to declare?
You’ll need to declare if you, or anyone else, covered under your policy has been diagnosed with or treated for a range of conditions.
Pregnancy isn’t a medical condition.
You should be covered if you have a pregnancy-related emergency while on your trip, provided you’re not travelling specifically to give birth, you haven’t had any complications and you haven't travelled past the point they're willing to insure you.
If you’re concerned, speak to your insurer.
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A terminal condition
Such as Parkinson’s Disease or dementia
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Any heart or respiratory conditions
Including heart disease, asthma or lung disease
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Any circulatory conditions
For example, problems with blood flow, including strokes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol
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Any liver conditions
Such as cirrhosis, liver disease or hepatitis
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Cancer
No matter what stage it is or whether it’s in remission
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Psychological conditions
For example, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and drug or alcohol abuse
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Any other serious medical condition
Including diabetes, HIV, epilepsy, joint and bone inflammation
Even if you’re cured of your medical condition, you’ll still need to declare it if falls into any of the categories listed
Frequently asked questions
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Where can I travel to if I have a pre-existing condition?
You should still be able to travel anywhere someone without a condition can travel. You'll need to pick between European or worldwide cover.
Having pre-existing medical conditions will push up the price of cover, but it’s a small price to pay when you consider the cost of healthcare, especially in countries like the USA and China.
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What if I need treatment abroad?
You, or a travelling companion, should get in contact with your insurer as soon as possible. Most insurers will have a 24-hour emergency helpline.
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What is medical screening for travel insurance?
Medical screening just means declaring your pre-existing medical conditions to your insurer.
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Do I still need travel insurance if I have an EHIC?
Yes. Your European Health Insurance Card only covers medical treatments in Europe, so you won’t be able to claim on it for anything else, such as lost luggage.
Most insurers won’t pay out for medical treatment that’s covered by your EHIC.
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What happens if I develop a condition after I’ve bought my policy?
Let your insurer know about any changes to your health as soon as possible.
Travel insurance guides and tools
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