It takes a long time to save for a vacation, and they are precious times spent with friends and family truly enjoying each other’s company and the surroundings. But no matter how much planning you do, it’s always possible something could go wrong. That’s where the importance of travel insurance comes in. Travel insurance is your protection from potential financial ruin from the costs associated with medical care in a foreign country. Many do not realize that provincial health care plans will cap out at $100 per day of coverage for a hospitalization, and only provide for $50 a day for outpatient services. Especially in the U.S., this is simply not enough. Travel insurance can also help with issues such as flight delays, lost baggage, trip cancellations, and troubles with rental cars.
But is it possible to get travel insurance with a pre-existing medical condition? The answer is yes, but with some different provisions. Any difficulties you experience relating to your pre-existing condition may not be covered, and your premiums may be higher because of it.
If you are concerned that your pre-existing condition may preclude you from obtaining travel insurance, talk to one of the experienced insurance brokers at Lane’s. We are able to sift through the noise associated with insurance policies to find you the exact right coverage for your needs.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Defined
A pre-existing medical condition is defined as any illness, ailment, or injury that that you were diagnosed with and had treated before purchasing your insurance. The amount of time you need to have had the condition varies by company. Some look back only a few months, others look back several years, and others may take your entire lifespan into consideration. It is very important that you be honest at all times with regards to your health, as failure to do so can nullify your policy.
Generally speaking, travel insurance companies will cover those whose medical condition is under control. The terminology they use is “stable.” A stable condition is one where:
- Symptoms have not worsened
- New symptoms have not appeared
- There have been no changes to your medication
- There have been no new diagnoses
So, let’s say you’ve had a heart attack recently, but seem to be doing ok. You are more than likely to qualify for travel insurance, however if you experience chest pains and have to visit the ER while away, that medical attention will not be covered. But if you end up having to get stiches and a tetanus shot after stepping on something sharp at the beach, that ER visit will be covered.
What Isn’t Covered by my Travel Insurance?
Go through your travel insurance policy with your broker to ensure there are no exclusions that could cause you concern. Travel insurance does not cover everything. In addition to pre-existing conditions, travel insurance generally excludes accidents or illnesses cause by drugs and/or alcohol. Elective or cosmetic surgeries are also not covered, as well as any procedure or provision of care that could be carried out in your home province.
Some policies do not cover risky activities, and so those who are planning on partaking in contact sports, extreme or adventure sports (think bungee jumping, rock climbing, parkour, mountain biking, vehicle racing, etc.) should consider purchasing optional sports coverage. Optional sports coverages include contact sports coverage, adventure sports coverage, extreme sports coverage, and excluded activities.
Credit Card Travel Insurance
Although many credit card companies provide travel insurance, we don’t recommend relying solely on this coverage. Often the limits are very low, and coverage may only apply for a limited time. Coverage may also be restricted from those above a certain age.
Lane’s Insurance is Proud to Work With Tugo
To simplify your travel insurance, you may want to consider an all-inclusive holiday package, which includes emergency medical insurance, trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, and baggage insurance. Our chosen provider of travel insurance at Lane’s is Tugo, which we believe provides the best policies at the best rates. Contact us at our Calgary, Edmonton, Banff, and Alberta offices today.
