When many individuals begin considering the purchase of travel insurance, they find the definition, exclusions, and acceptance of pre-existing conditions confusing. They are right at that. It can be difficult to understand exactly what this term means and know whether your conditions are covered on your trip.

 

However, if you want to receive all of the benefits that come with purchasing this type of insurance, you need to be a little proactive and do your research. Good insurance companies will list their accepted conditions and tell you about exclusions. Consider the following tips and information if you aren’t ready to make that call yet.

 

Travel Insurance- What Does it Mean by Pre-existing Condition?

 

The definition of a pre-existing condition is any medical or physical condition that requires treatment. You can use this term to define the symptoms of the condition as well. A condition is considered to be pre-existing when:

  • You know of the condition or should be aware of it. To eliminate confusion this should be explained. If you have been observing that a mole on your arm has been changing colours for the last six months, but just didn’t bother to go to the doctor, you can not expect the travel insurance company to pay for your medical bills if you find out on your trip that it is cancer. This is pretty harsh, come to think of it, but you should have avoided it in the first place by going to the doctor.
  • You are taking alternative treatment or physician treatment for the condition.
  • A medical condition has been diagnosed by the doctor.
  • Medical attention will be required for your condition while you are traveling.
  • Medication changes. This includes changes in your prescription doses.

 

Travel Insurance NZ- What Pre-existing Conditions are Accepted?

 

You can ask for more information but generally some specific conditions are included. Typically these conditions include

  • Diabetes
  • Gastro-oesophageal reflux
  • Asthma
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypertension
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Acne
  • Cataracts
  • Migraines
  • Normal pregnancies with no unusual complications
  • Joint replacements

 

This list is not exhaustive. Other common medical conditions are also covered under this type of insurance. Mentioning the conditions, however, is very important. Honesty is always the best policy, and if you fail to mention a condition, it may not be included in your coverage.

 

Pre-existing Conditions That Are Excluded

 

Insurance companies will do their best to cover as many conditions as they possibly can but it is likely that a few conditions may be left out. Some examples are as follows

  • Mental conditions, such as depression, anxiety, stress, and nervous disorders
  • Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
  • Pregnancy related complications that exist before policy purchase

 

If you are on a waiting list for surgery for some condition that will often be excluded as well

 

Understanding what pre-existing conditions are, which ones are accepted, and which ones are excluded from your policy is an important part of planning your trip. Contact your travel insurance company for complete lists if you are confused. Buy Travel Insurance NZ

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