The Impact of Pre-Existing Health Conditions on Travel Insurance

The Rising Cost of Travel Insurance

Bernie Lawrence, a 77-year-old retiree from Fleet, Hampshire, shares his experience of seeing a significant increase in travel insurance costs after developing heart problems. Before his surgery, Lawrence and his wife Barbara, 79, bought annual travel insurance policies for Europe for under £100. However, after the operation, and as they got older, prices began rising sharply.

The Impact of Medical Conditions on Insurance Costs

In 2022, they paid £302 for the same level of cover. After he suffered briefly from atrial fibrillation – a common heart rhythm disorder – and was placed on an NHS waiting list for an echocardiogram, they were quoted £1,200. Unable to wait months for NHS confirmation, he paid privately for the scan. Once he had the all-clear, his travel insurance quote went to £584.

Medical Bills and the Importance of Insurance

Despite never making a claim on his policy, Lawrence believes it is important to have cover. However, millions of holidaymakers with pre-existing medical conditions are planning to travel abroad this summer without insurance, according to a survey by specialist insurer AllClear that suggested 18% of Britons will risk not buying cover. Two years ago, insurers paid out £262m for medical expenses for UK travellers who needed emergency care or treatment while on holiday.

Buying Cover and Disclosure

The cost of a policy will be based on your age, the condition, where you are travelling and for how long. Price comparison websites allow you to search for policies even if you have pre-existing medical conditions, but it is essential to check the small print with the insurer before you pay. When applying for cover, an insurer will ask you to tell it about any medical issues that you have had during a certain period – usually the last five years.

Common Conditions and Costs

Some common conditions, such as anxiety, high blood pressure, arthritis and asthma, only add a few pounds to a typical policy. However, you may face high costs if you are still under investigation for a condition or waiting for treatment. Disclosing any medical conditions is essential, as you could invalidate your policy if you don’t.