As defined most simply, a pre-existing condition is any health condition that a person has prior to enrolling in health coverage. Or it could be more serious or require more costly treatment – such as diabetes, heart disease, or cancer.

Can you be denied insurance for pre-existing conditions?

Under current law, health insurance companies can’t refuse to cover you or charge you more just because you have a “pre-existing condition” — that is, a health problem you had before the date that new health coverage starts.

How far back do you have to declare medical conditions for travel insurance?

A number of pre-existing medical conditions must also be revealed if they occurred within a certain time frame, normally two years. Some serious conditions such as heart, respiratory illnesses and cancer must be disclosed to insurers regardless of how long ago you stopped receiving treatment.

Can I get travel insurance with an undiagnosed condition?

Yes, you should wait for a diagnosis before getting a medical travel insurance quote. We’re unable to provide medical travel insurance cover unless all conditions/symptoms are diagnosed. If you’re waiting for a diagnosis, then please come back to us once you have one.

Is arthritis a pre-existing condition?

Arthritis is generally considered pre-existing medical condition. This doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get travel insurance, but you do need to disclose your condition before you book your cover. With arthritis, you’ll need to declare your specific type of arthritis whether it’s osteo, rheumatoid, or psoriatic.

What medical conditions do I need to declare for travel insurance?

Medical conditions that you will need to declare to claim travel insurance range from high cholesterol to cancer, and also include conditions or diagnoses that have recently occurred, such as a heart attack or stroke.