Undeclared Medical Conditions - a Risky Oversight for Travellers
Posted on 1st August 2024 at 10:22
Recent research from the insurance industry highlights a concerning trend: one in three British holidaymakers could be traveling with undeclared medical conditions.
This is putting travellers at risk of having their travel insurance claims rejected. This oversight can have serious financial and health implications, especially when traveling abroad.
Why Declaring Medical Conditions is Crucial
When purchasing travel insurance, it is essential to declare all pre-existing medical conditions.
Insurers will ask details of any serious conditions that you have suffered from ever in your life time. They will also ask about any illness or injury for which you've experienced symptoms, treatment, or medical consultations within the last five years. If you are undergoing tests or investigations for undiagnosed conditions some Insurers will not offer any cover until you have a diagnosis. Failing to disclose these conditions can render your policy invalid, leaving you responsible for potentially exorbitant medical expenses if you require treatment while traveling.
The Consequences of Non-Disclosure
If you travel with an undeclared medical condition, you risk invalidating your travel insurance policy. This means that any medical treatment, medication, or even repatriation costs could fall entirely on you. For instance, the cost of an air ambulance from the USA to the UK can exceed £50,000. Such expenses underscore the importance of ensuring your travel insurance policy is comprehensive and up-to-date with your health status.
Commonly Overlooked Conditions
Many travellers mistakenly believe that minor or well-managed conditions do not need to be declared. However, conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or even anxiety must be disclosed to ensure full coverage. It's also crucial to update your insurer about any changes in your health, even after purchasing your policy, to maintain its validity.
How to Protect Yourself
To avoid the pitfalls of undeclared medical conditions, consider the following steps:
When applying for travel insurance, provide detailed information about your medical history, including past surgeries and ongoing treatments.
If you're unsure whether a condition needs to be declared, contact us directly for guidance.
Inform your insurer of any changes in your health, such as new diagnoses or treatments, to ensure your policy remains valid.
By taking these precautions, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that you are fully protected against unforeseen medical emergencies. At Hedon Insurance, we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of travel insurance, ensuring you have the coverage you need for a safe and worry-free journey.
Remember, wherever your travels take you, we've got you covered for worry-free adventures with Hedon Insurance!
Call us on 01482 707800 or email info@hedoninsurance.co.uk for a quote today.
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