New Illness and travel insurance

[angelbaby29871]

i have just got out from hospital after having a mild stroke which has left me weak on the left side (hoping this will improve soon). I am just wondering should i let my travel insurers know in case it happens again whilst on vacation or just keep quiet. i would normally be up for telling them but i don't know if i would be covered if t happens again. i am a perpetual worrier and over obsesser over things. still not used to this, keep dropping things and falling over.

Thanks guys, always good to have others to listen to me, i can get so obsessed about the little details i lose sight of the bigger picture.

 

[Nanajo1]

I believe that you must reveal any condition you are aware of in order to have a valid policy. If you should have a similar episode without telling them of your history it could void your coverage. The insurance company will request a copy of your medical history if you file a claim.

 

[barkley]

i don't think you have to advise the company. most have a preexisting condition clause and as such if you file a claim they will access your medical records and determine if the claim is related to any preexisting situation.

i've had 2 strokes and several t.i.a's-and purchased travel insurance on many occasions-none of the companies asked for information on my medical status, it was just made clear in the contract that they would'nt pay for anything they deemed was linked to a preexisting condition (in fact when you buy travel insurance generaly there is no health questioneer to fill out).

to op-be patient, it takes a while to get that strength back-and do any physical therapy you are given (it works wonders). don't be surprised if after you've recovered your strength on that side-if you overly tire yourself, it can feel weak (when we travel i have to pace myself or my right side acts up a bit).

 

[emerymt]

If you purchased the policy before your stroke, they may cover you for any problems you have related to the stroke. Usually this occurs if you purchased the insurance within a given number of days of purchasing the trip- so you need to check your policy. For instance, if you purchased the insurance within 14 days of purchasing the trip, Access America will cover you. Others might not. If you have just made your first payment (or not made any payments yet) there might be time to get this type of policy. You do not have to tell travel insurers about health unless they ask, which they don't. If an insurer asks you, just be truthful. This is a good rule of thumb always and can save you much grief, because if you ever have a claim, they will find out.

Otherwise, unless you completely recover and have no stroke-related problems or medicines during the exclusion period (time period varies by policy) stroke-related cancellations will not be covered. If you get better you might want to find a policy with a short exclusionary period, you may just qualify ! I have RA, and since I take my medication every day that would not work for me. I don't expect it to act up during the trip, though. But, I wouldn't expect yours to, either, and the travel insurance will cover you for everything else- so even if you aren't covered- enjoy!

One other thought, if you are worried about health care coverage (e.g. if on a cruise and out of the US) and you are employed, you should check and see if you can upgrade your insurance policy with your employer.