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Whether you are planning a domestic or international holiday, pre-existing conditions can be a major consideration for your itinerary.

Travel insurance companies typically consider pre-existing conditions to be a higher risk and may require additional medical underwriting or charge higher premiums to cover any potential medical expenses that may arise during travel, or any cancellation costs that are incurred prior to the commencement of the trip.

We will go over some information that will help you find the travel insurance cover that is suitable for your needs.

What conditions are considered for Travel Insurance?

When applying for travel insurance, pre-existing medical conditions are a major consideration, as insurers may look at conditions such as heart disease, cancer, respiratory illnesses, and neurological conditions among others.

The severity of these conditions and the risk of complications or emergency medical treatment during travel can impact the cost of insurance coverage or whether insurance can be provided at all.

While some conditions can increase the cost of your premium, there can be many that are covered at no extra cost. InsureandGo, for example, consider all pre-existing medical conditions for possible cover, some at no extra charge.

What does a pre-existing condition mean?

Pre-existing medical conditions refer to any illness or injury that a person has been diagnosed with or received treatment for before applying for travel insurance. These conditions can range from chronic illnesses like diabetes or high blood pressure to past injuries or surgeries.

At InsureandGo, for example, a pre-existing medical condition is any diagnosed medical condition for which, in the last 5 years, you or any insured person has suffered from or has received any form of medical advice, treatment or medication.

How do travel insurance providers determine if my condition will be approved?

Travel insurance providers typically determine if a pre-existing medical condition will be approved for coverage by conducting medical assessments.

This involves assessing the risk of potential medical expenses based on the traveller’s medical history and current health status. Insurers may ask for details about the condition, such as the date of diagnosis, any past hospitalisations or surgeries, and the type of treatment or medication received. This information can help insurers assess the risk associated with providing coverage for the pre-existing condition and ensure that the traveller is properly covered in case of a medical emergency.

For example, InsureandGo will perform a quick assessment of your medical conditions via a short questionnaire. You can complete this questionnaire online or by phone and it usually takes only 5-10 minutes. At the end, they will be able to tell you whether they can provide you with travel insurance cover for your specific condition and if you have to pay an additional premium.

Do I need to provide medical certificates?

Some travel insurance providers may require travellers with pre-existing medical conditions to obtain a medical certificate before coverage is approved.

This certificate is typically issued by the traveller’s general physician and outlines the details of the medical condition, any medications or treatment required, and the risk of potential medical emergencies during travel.

Not all insurers require medical certificates though. InsureandGo don’t ask for medical or doctor’s certificates until the insured needs to make a claim.

Do I need to undergo a physical evaluation?

While some travel insurance providers may require a physical examination before approving coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, it is not a common practice.

In most cases, insurers rely on medical information provided by the traveller and their treating doctor to assess the risk of potential medical emergencies during travel.

However, if a traveller has a complex medical history, or is applying for coverage for a particularly high-risk pre-existing condition, the insurer may request a physical examination.

InsureandGo for example, do not require any physical evaluations when you purchase a travel insurance policy. However, evaluations may be required later on if you need to make a claim.

What if I’m waiting on medical tests/results?

If a traveller is waiting on medical test results when applying for travel insurance, it is important to disclose this information to the insurance provider.

Depending on the type of test and the potential implication for the traveller’s health, insurers may delay approval of coverage until the test results are received.

It’s a good idea to wait until you receive any medical results or surgery before you organise your travel or purchase a travel insurance policy. Otherwise, it may not be possible to obtain cover.

What if my conditions change between the time I purchase the policy, and the time I leave for my trip?

This circumstance can be common for anyone purchasing travel insurance early on for their trip. Travellers should inform their insurer as soon as possible about any change in medical conditions to ensure that any necessary adjustments to the coverage can be made.

If you are in doubt about any of the medical requirements, limits, or levels of cover in your travel insurance policy, ensure you read your Product Disclosure Statement properly before you purchase.

What else should I consider?

When purchasing travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions, there are several other factors to consider in addition to medical coverage.

These may include the type of travel being undertaken, the destination, and any potential risks associated with the trip. Additionally, travellers should consider the coverage limits and deductibles of the policy, as well as any exclusions or limitations that may apply to pre-existing conditions.

Other factors to consider may include trip cancellation, and interruption coverage, baggage and personal belongings coverage, and emergency travel assistance services. It is important that you carefully review your travel insurance policy and understand the coverage and exclusions to ensure that you are properly protected during your trip.

If you’re looking to purchase a policy, InsureandGo are offering a 15% discount on premiums for Seniors Card SA members. Use code SENSA15 in the promotional box at https://www.insureandgo.com.au or call 1300 401 177.

Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company, Limited ABN 49 000 525 637, AFSL 240816, issues InsureandGo Travel Insurance (the insurance). For full details of the benefits, including Covid-19 benefits (available in silver and gold policies), terms and conditions and exclusions that may apply please read the Product Disclosure Statement, Target Market Determination (TMD) and Financial Services Guide available on our website at https://www.insureandgo.com.au to decide if the insurance is right for you. Mitsui Sumitomo has appointed Europ Assistance Australia Pty Ltd, ACN 140 219 594 as its Authorised Representative (AR Number 424825) to deal with this insurance product.

*Check full Covid-19 Benefits here.

InsureandGo is a Canstar 2022 Award Winner for Outstanding Value – Seniors Travel Insurance. More info here.