Can You Get Travel Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions?

If you're thinking about getting travel insurance for your next trip abroad, it's always a good idea. But what if you have pre-existing conditions? Do travel insurance policies cover them?

Getting coverage is wise, but it's really important that you understand how travel insurance works - which means what is covered, what isn't, and other options you have.

We’ll go over what qualifies as a pre-existing condition, how to declare it, and what may or may not be covered to give you peace of mind during your trip.

What is a pre-existing condition for travel insurance?

A pre-existing medical condition is any health issue you’ve had before your travel insurance policy starts. 

These conditions could range from issues like high cholesterol or blood pressure to more serious ones, such as heart disease, diabetes, or a history of strokes.

Long-term illnesses and diseases, such as autoimmune diseases or genetic disorders, are also considered pre-existing conditions. 

If you have a medical condition, it is considered a pre-existing condition as it existed before you purchased your travel insurance.

Some common examples of pre-existing conditions include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Asthma
• Heart conditions
• Diabetes
• Previous strokes
• And more

Additionally, some specific health-related concerns are considered pre-existing conditions, so they aren't covered either. These include illnesses diagnosed previously. 

Does travel insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, travel insurance, including Schengen visa insurance, does not cover pre-existing conditions. 

Travel insurance is designed to provide coverage for common travel risks, like serious accidents, medical emergencies, lost luggage, etc. Your exact coverage will depend on the policy that you choose. 

Because travel insurance does not provide coverage for pre-existing conditions, it’s a good idea to schedule a physical with your doctor before you travel abroad.

This will allow you to discuss and create a plan regarding your health while you are overseas. 

If you will need routine care while you're on your trip, it'll be important to find the right option that works for you. Medicare/Medicaid doesn't cover trips abroad, and most private domestic insurance plans might not as well.

Declaring pre-existing conditions

Travel insurance is different than health insurance.

When purchasing travel insurance, there typically aren’t any forms relating to your medical history that you will need to fill out.

With that being said, you will be expected to share any relevant medical history if you experience a medical emergency abroad. If it is related to a pre-existing condition, it will not be covered. 

Even if you aren't asked to declare something in writing before your trip, it is still your responsibility to notify your insurance of any pre-existing condition should an emergency happen.

Do I need to declare high blood pressure or high cholesterol?

Is a stroke considered a pre-existing condition?

Your medical emergency coverage abroad

When it comes to pre-existing conditions, medical emergencies related to known conditions are not covered. 

If other emergencies occur, such as unforeseen illnesses, accidents, and injuries, contact your insurer immediately.

Insurte's policies, for example, provide 24/7 support and assistance, so they will be available to give you advice and the next steps for your claim. 

It’s important to always read the specific terms and conditions before purchasing a policy, so you know exactly what is covered and what isn’t. For instance, there may be exclusions that aren’t pre-existing conditions.

Traveling safely with pre-existing conditions

You can still travel confidently with pre-existing conditions; there are just a few things to do to prepare.

• Schedule an appointment with your doctor well before your departure date if you have a condition that needs routine treatment.
• Get updated panels if your doctor deems them necessary, and review the results with them. 
• Discuss any medications you take with your doctor and ensure that you will have enough for the entire duration of your trip. If possible, it’s helpful to bring a little bit extra in case of any unforeseen travel delays (so you’re not left without necessary medications). 
• Ask your doctor for advice about managing your condition(s) during travel.
• Create an emergency plan with the advice of your practitioner, just in case. 
• Treat yourself with kindness. Make sure you’re staying hydrated and getting enough rest. 
• Research your destination thoroughly so you can appropriately prepare (for example, what will the temperature be? Is there free potable water available? Are there a lot of stairs? etc.).
• The best option for you is to ask your domestic health insurance if they can provide coverage for you during your trip.

It’s essential to understand that when you purchase travel insurance, you will not be asked about pre-existing conditions, but that doesn’t mean you are covered for them. 

The TLDR;

• A pre-existing condition is any health issue you knowingly had before your travel insurance policy was purchased.
• Strokes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and more are considered pre-existing conditions
• Pre-existing conditions are not covered by travel insurance through Insurte.
• Always read the terms and conditions of your policy before purchasing. Make sure to check the exclusions.
• It’s recommended to check with your doctor before traveling abroad.
• If you have a medical emergency abroad, contact your insurer immediately.