Pre-existing conditions always seem to complicate things when it comes to getting any kind of travel insurance policy. In almost all cases, it’s safe to say you will qualify for travel insurance even if you have a pre-existing condition, though it’s not quite so simple. Other than its more expensive, there are a few things that have to be done before you can get it.
Firstly, you have to be completely honest when you are reporting to an insurance company about any pre-existing condition. There is something called a “Look-Back Period†that usually spans anywhere from 60 to 180 days. If your illness was diagnosed, appeared, or treated within this period, it counts as pre-existing and must be reported. Not reporting will result in any and all policies being null and void.
Single Trip Travel Insurance
In most single trip travel cases – and all instances of travel – you have to be safely cleared for travel before your insurance policy begins. This means you cannot be ready to travel at some point in the future. You have to be fit and ready to travel when the insurance is obtained. Otherwise, should something happen, you will not be covered.
Travel Medical Insurance
Buying medical insurance for the time you’re traveling abroad can be a bit tricky but, once again, not impossible. It’s just going to be more expensive because you are a higher risk for the company than someone without the conditions. Medical coverage abroad covers prescription medications and any emergency medical or dental needs which may arise. They even cover lost luggage as well as trip cancellation.
Annual Insurance
Annual trip insurance is going to be more expensive when it comes to pre-existing conditions because it’s more expensive for a company to cover you. Annual insurance plans cover prescription medication which is very important for those with pre-existing conditions. It also covers pregnancies and maternity-related needs plus other common medical needs. These policies usually last at least a year and can be extended.
Rental Car Policies
Pre-existing conditions should not affect your ability to rent a car while traveling unless it is the type of condition that affects your insurance in the United States ; for instance, narcolepsy. Any condition that is likely to cause you to be a danger to other commuters on the road will make it a bit harder to obtain a car rental policy, but it’s far from impossible.
Flight Accident Insurance
Since pre-existing conditions have no bearing on whether a plane crashes or not, flight accident insurance is usually not affected by these conditions. Bear in mind the insurance company has to be aware of the pre-existing condition and the person who is on plane has to have been fit for travel at the time of the accident; otherwise the policy is completely void.
Overall, it can be seen that you can qualify for most types of travel insurance even if you have a pre-existing condition.
