Can I get senior travel insurance if I have pre-existing medical conditions?
The answer is yes, but like any travel insurance policy there are exclusions to all policies. Many insurers will cover some health conditions, up to a certain age, provided there aren’t complications, other pre-existing conditions will be excluded regardless of age.
What is a pre-existing medical condition?
A pre-existing medical condition is generally referred to as an ongoing medical or dental condition which you are aware of, or have symptoms of. A condition you are currently seeking medical treatment for, or have previously been treated for, by a medical professional. A condition you are taking medicine for currently or you’ve had surgery for, in the past 12 months. Pregnancy is also considered a pre-existing medical condition.
Note: pre-existing medical conditions apply not only to the person who buys the travel insurance policy, but also your travelling companion or close relative.
What typical pre-existing medical conditions are covered?
Typical conditions that are covered automatically include high cholesterol, asthma, osteoporosis, cataracts, congenital blindness, hernia, incontinence, diabetes (if you were diagnosed more than 12 months ago and have no kidney or eye complications, you do not suffer from hypertension or hypoglycaemia, and you are under 50 years of age), high blood pressure (provided you do not suffer from cardiovascular disease or diabetes) and congenital deafness.
Pre-existing medical conditions that may not be covered?
Some conditions require you to fill out a medical assessment form before cover can be granted or declined. Typical conditions that are often not covered include; terminal illness, if you require oxygen for your holiday, if you take blood thinning drugs, if you’re awaiting surgery, cancer, congestive heart failure, recurring pain or mental illness (including dementia).
It’s important to realise that each insurer is different and some may cover more pre-existing conditions than others. For see a full list of covered conditions refer to your insurers policy documentation known as a Product Disclosure Statement.
What if I can't find cover for my pre-existing condition?
Remember you can still buy normal travel insurance with pre-existing conditions - not having cover for your condition simply means you may be out of pocket for any claims related to, exacerbated by, or arising from that pre-existing medical condition without prior approval.