How Does Pre-Existing Coverage Work With Travel Insurance?

Planning an international vacation can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It is important, however, to give careful thought to the costs and risks associated with travelling to a foreign country. Pre-existing coverage on travel insurance policies can provide travellers with the assurance and protection they need, by covering the cost of unexpected medical treatments, losses due to trip cancellation, lost luggage, and more. In this article, we will explain the pre-existing coverage available on travel insurance policies in India. We also provide information on choosing the best policy for you and advice on how to make sure your insurance will provide the necessary coverage if you need it.

Are Pre-Existing Diseases Covered by Travel Insurance?

In most cases, when you buy travel insurance online, it does not cover pre-existing illnesses or any other situation that may cause problems during your trip. However, that doesn't mean you can't get an insurance policy that covers these conditions. Many travel insurance companies in India, now, offer plans to cover pre-existing diseases. However, you should notify your insurance company in advance or check your policy to see if it can be added to your existing travel insurance. This applies to domestic and international travel insurance. * Travel insurance companies do not accept claims if the insured cancels his trip or seeks medical treatment due to an earlier illness or medical condition during the trip. Existing travel health insurance coverage is only offered under optional coverage or special plans created to cover these conditions. *

What is Pre-Existing Coverage?

Pre-existing coverage is a type of protection in which an insurance company covers the medical expenses that may have arisen before the date of purchase of the travel insurance policy. Travel Insurance pre-existing coverage is applicable for particular conditions, depending on the plan you select. Some insurance companies may choose to classify the existing conditions before the purchase of travel insurance with pre-existing conditions and some may consider them as part of the overall coverage. It is important to understand the specific terms of the international travel insurance policy and the various pre-existing conditions that may be excluded from the coverage. Additionally, some pre-existing conditions may be linked to age, income, and other factors. *

What is Covered Under Pre-Existing Coverage?

Pre-existing coverage typically includes treatment for specific medical conditions that may have occurred before buying the policy. Depending on the policy, some other diseases may also be covered. It is important to go through the plan before making a final decision. Here is the list of a few pre-existing conditions covered under travel insurance:

1. Diabetes
2. Cardiac conditions
3. Hypertension
4. Cancer
5. Asthma
6. Other illnesses or injuries sustained prior to buying the travel insurance policy

In addition to covering pre-existing diseases, the flight insurance policy may also include certain additional benefits such as compensation for lost baggage and expenses related to trip cancellation.

How to Know if You Need PED Coverage on Your Travel Insurance Policy?

If you have a chronic illness or any health condition that requires regular medication or treatment, you likely need PED (Pre-Existing Disease) coverage. It’s important to review your medical history and consult your doctor before deciding. Adding this coverage ensures that medical emergencies related to your condition are covered, saving you from significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Is Travelling Without a PED Cover Worth It?

Travelling without PED coverage can be risky if you have a known health condition. Medical treatments abroad can be extremely expensive, and without adequate coverage, you may end up paying a hefty amount. While it might reduce your insurance premium, it’s not worth the risk of facing a medical emergency without proper coverage. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company offers comprehensive travel insurance plans that include PED coverage, ensuring peace of mind for travellers.

How to Claim Pre-Existing Coverage?

Here is what you should do to claim pre-existing coverage in travel insurance:

1. Understand Your Coverage

Review your insurance policy or contact your insurance provider to understand what type of pre-existing condition coverage your policy provides.

2. Gather Documentation

Collect any medical documentation that is relevant to your pre-existing condition, including any written statements from your doctor.

3. File the Claim

Contact your international travel insurance provider to explain that you need to file a claim for benefits associated with a pre-existing condition. Supply the necessary documents to support your claim.

4. Wait for Response

Wait for the insurance company to review the claim, assess the evidence, and decide upon the coverage.

5. Understand the Outcome

Keep a record of the result of your claim so you understand what is covered and what you will be responsible for.

6. Follow Up

If you don’t hear back from the insurance provider in a timely manner, or if you feel that your claim has been wrongfully denied, reach out to them with any updated information or further requests.

Conclusion

Pre-existing medical conditions can cause a great financial burden on your travels if not accounted for when you buy travel insurance online. It is very important that you understand the scope of pre-existing coverage provided by your insurance policy and take the necessary steps to cover these conditions while selecting an appropriate plan. By opting for pre-existing coverage, you can ensure that you are financially secure against all contingencies and risks that may occur in foreign lands. Pre-existing coverage on travel insurance for travel abroad is an essential factor to consider when you are travelling abroad. It can play a vital role in covering your medical expenses and other related costs, depending on the kind of plan you choose. We hope this article has covered everything you need to know about pre-existing coverage when looking for travel insurance plans in India. *Standard T&C apply  Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under the travel insurance policy.

FAQs

1. What qualifies as a pre-existing condition?

A pre-existing condition is any illness, injury, or medical issue diagnosed or treated before purchasing the insurance policy.

2. How long is a pre-existing condition?

A condition is considered pre-existing if it was present, diagnosed, or treated within a specific period before buying the policy, typically 2-5 years.

3. What are stable pre-existing conditions?

Stable conditions are those that haven’t changed in severity, required treatment, or had new symptoms for a specified period before travel.

4. What is the time limit for pre-existing conditions?

Most insurers consider conditions as pre-existing if they were treated or diagnosed within the last 2-5 years before buying the policy.

5. What are serious pre-existing conditions?

Serious conditions are those that can significantly impact your health and require regular treatment or medication, such as heart disease or cancer.