Question re "pre-existing" medical conditions

[tuapekastar]

I know there is a TI section elsewhere (and this post may get moved there) but I think this section is far more frequently read.

When TI policies talk about pre-existing medical conditions and how you won't be covered, is it just for those conditions?

(real) Example. I have Bell's Palsy (a severe case), and while it is on TID's list of 'covered' pre-existing conditions (without having to notify them), there is an exclusion if you have attended hospital (including emergency department) in the last 24 months for any of the listed conditions (I have). So if I go on a trip and have a medical condition/emergency/illness that is totally unrelated to Bell's Palsy am I covered for it? And if I didn't disclose the Bell's Palsy (I don't mind doing so) would that have an adverse effect on an unrelated medical claim?

I know policies differ, but hoping this is a general enough theme that there is a blanket answer.

(As you may be able to tell, I have never claimed on TI before)

Thanks

 

[Mal Ware]

Re: Question re Travel Insurance

If it is unrelated to a pre-existing medical condition, then one would assume it is covered. Best to phone them and make sure, but yeah dont see why it wouldn't be, especially if you declared your previous illness to them.

 

[MEL_Traveller]

Re: Question re Travel Insurance

I know there is a TI section elsewhere (and this post may get moved there) but I think this section is far more frequently read.

When TI policies talk about pre-existing medical conditions and how you won't be covered, is it just for those conditions?

(real) Example. I have Bell's Palsy (a severe case), and while it is on TID's list of 'covered' pre-existing conditions (without having to notify them), there is an exclusion if you have attended hospital (including emergency department) in the last 24 months for any of the listed conditions (I have). So if I go on a trip and have a medical condition/emergency/illness that is totally unrelated to Bell's Palsy am I covered for it? And if I didn't disclose the Bell's Palsy (I don't mind doing so) would that have an adverse effect on an unrelated medical claim?

I know policies differ, but hoping this is a general enough theme that there is a blanket answer.

(As you may be able to tell, I have never claimed on TI before)

Thanks

Agree with Mal Ware. Worth checking, but I made a similar enquiry about a pre-existing condition through ANZ credit card insurance and they confirmed full cover for everything else.

 

[Pushka]

Question re Travel Insurance

I think it can get a little tricky in some circumstances. Lets just say, you have a pre existing history of say, fainting. You faint and hit your head and have a bad concussion and need to go to hospital. The concussion has occurred because of the pre existing condition so no cover.

 

[tuapekastar]

Re: Question re Travel Insurance

Thanks all. I'll call and ask, a sensible thing to do, I just prefer the simplicity of a few clicks online and it's done.

 

[RyanD]

If your disease is included in the list of the pre-existing medical conditions, you don't need to pay for it because it is already covered by the normal terms of the policy.
E.g., you could read more here, it is clear here I guess: Pre-Existing Medical Conditions - Globelink Travel Insurance
But actually, it is always better to call to your provider and ask telling your certain case.

 

[JT0511]

Are the definitions of "pre-existing" conditions the same for all/ most insurers? Eg High blood pressure is normally covered if the insured is on medication.

 

[Pushka]

Are the definitions of "pre-existing" conditions the same for all/ most insurers? Eg High blood pressure is normally covered if the insured is on medication.

Some add a rider, such as must be under 150/90 for instance, or "under control" or similar.

 

[JT0511]

Some add a rider, such as must be under 150/90 for instance, or "under control" or similar.

In other words the devil in in the detail. It'd be interesting to know what "Under control" might mean...or be interpreted to mean.

 

[Pushka]

I'd say if it comes to a claim then they would check your medical records. If the Doctor had used the appropriate words then you'd be fine. But yes the devil is on the detail. It's an insurance company after all.

 

[Anthony]

I have had the same/similar problem with heart problems. Most TI companies now use a one size fits all computer program which invariably results in 'computer says no". I have just booked for a month's cover for USA via SURESAVE for the first time. I was surprised at their very pleasant and helpful service. Phone interview and then quote next day. Cost for my trip was half what I paid to Covermore last year but couldn't get past their new computer format this year. I haven't made any claims on any policy so can't comment on that aspect. BTW Suresave promote themselves as the specialist insurance company for people with pre-existing medical conditions. I'm sure they should be able to help you.

 

[Sprucegoose]

I have had the same/similar problem with heart problems. Most TI companies now use a one size fits all computer program which invariably results in 'computer says no". I have just booked for a month's cover for USA via SURESAVE for the first time. I was surprised at their very pleasant and helpful service. Phone interview and then quote next day. Cost for my trip was half what I paid to Covermore last year but couldn't get past their new computer format this year. I haven't made any claims on any policy so can't comment on that aspect. BTW Suresave promote themselves as the specialist insurance company for people with pre-existing medical conditions. I'm sure they should be able to help you.

Suresave ahve changed. I know of one case where a year ago was ok but this time around got knocked back 'by the computer'. Any firm that relies on a computer cant be held up to be 'specialist'

anyone else had this experience with SURESAVE recently? I was at a loss if I could recommed them on that basis.

 

[Sprucegoose]

I found this review and SURESAVE sure are'nt doing too well. 2 star apparently

Travel Insurance Star Ratings - Comprehensive Travel Insurance for Single Travelling to United States