Travel Insurance and Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: What You Need to Know

Traveling abroad is exciting, but if you have pre-existing medical conditions, it’s essential to understand how travel insurance works, what is covered, and what isn’t.

In this article, we’ll break down the essentials of travel insurance and how it relates to pre-existing medical conditions. 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.

Whether you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or something else, you’ll find answers to common questions and be able to approach your trip with accurate information.

What is a pre-existing condition when it comes to 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 auto-immune diseases or genetic disorders, are also considered pre-existing conditions. 

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 are not 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 risks of travel, such as 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. 

Do I need to declare 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. 

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

On Insurte, you do not need to declare an illness diagnosed previously, including high blood pressure or high cholesterol. 

Keep in mind that if an emergency occurs that is related to your high blood pressure or high cholesterol in any way, you won’t be able to submit a claim, as it is related to a pre-existing condition. 

Is a stroke considered a pre-existing condition?

Any illness diagnosed previously, including a stroke, is considered a pre-existing condition. If you’ve experienced a stroke and have a stroke-related emergency abroad, you won’t be able to submit a claim. 

If you have a stroke while abroad, and you have no history of strokes, this is not considered a pre-existing condition as you have not received medical care for it in the past. 

What happens if I have a medical emergency 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. With Insurte, they 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 example, there may be exclusions that aren’t pre-existing conditions.

How to travel safely with pre-existing conditions

Traveling with confidence is still possible with pre-existing conditions. There are a few ways to prepare for your trip abroad to help you feel more peace of mind while traveling.

• Schedule an appointment with your doctor well before your departure date.
• 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 the 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. 

Key Takeaways: Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Travel Insurance

• 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.