Pre-Existing Conditions & Travel Insurance

Getting travel insurance, especially when you're heading abroad, is always a good idea. But if you're one of the many travelers who has pre-existing conditions, are you still covered? To what extent?

Getting coverage is wise, but it's important to understand how travel insurance works, like what is covered, what isn't, and other options that you have (especially if there are specific existing conditions to take into consideration).

We're travel insurance experts with 14+ years of experience. We're here to share our insights about what qualifies as a pre-existing condition, when and how to declare them, and what may or may not be covered in your plan.

Also, keep in mind that sometimes travel insurance is required, such as Schengen travel insurance for visa applicants.

What is considered a pre-existing condition

In 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, like autoimmune diseases or genetic disorders, are also considered pre-existing conditions. 

If you have a known 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
• Etc.

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

In short - any condition that you know about before you purchase your travel insurance is typically considered a pre-existing condition.

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 medical emergencies, serious accidents, lost luggage and passports, etc. Your exact coverage, of course, 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 do not either.

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 need to be filled out.

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, unfortunately, 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, you must contact your insurer immediately.

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 other exclusions that aren’t pre-existing conditions.

When and how claims need to be submitted vary. For instance, a policy may require you to submit the claim before receiving care. That's one of the reasons it's essential that you know the claim process before you leave on your trip and your insurance kicks in.

Traveling safely with pre-existing conditions

You can still travel with pre-existing conditions, of course; 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, or if you're concerned about traveling with your specific diagnosis.
• 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 your practitioner's advice, 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.).
• If you have pre-existing conditions or need routine treatments, 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 likely not be asked about pre-existing conditions, but that doesn’t mean you are covered for them.