Pre-existing medical conditions are health issues you have before you buy travel insurance.
Some conditions are coverd automatically, some for an extra fee, and others can't be covered.
You must declare pre-existing conditions when you buy insurance, or you risk not being covered.
How do I get travel insurance for pre-existing conditions in Ausrtalia?
Here are the steps to get travel insurance for pre-existing conditions in Australia:
Compare policies: Compare policies from multiple providers to find the best coverage for your needs. Look for policies that specifically cover your condition, and make sure you read the policy wording carefully.
Declare your pre-existing medical condition: When applying for travel insurance, declare any pre-existing medical conditions you have. The insurer will let you know if your condition is covered, if it will cost you more, or if you need to apply for a pre-existing medical condition waiver.
Apply for a pre-existing medical condition waiver: If required, apply for a pre-existing medical condition waiver with your insurer.
It's important to note that most travel insurance policies do not automatically cover pre-existing conditions, and some insurers may exclude them altogether. Therefore, it's crucial to declare all medical conditions when applying for travel insurance and read the policy wording carefully to understand what is covered and what is not.
When declaring your history, you should be aware of standardized disclosure timeframe requirements. According to 1Cover and Smartraveller, most insurers require you to disclose any medical or mental health conditions you have seen a doctor or dentist for in the 12 months prior to purchasing your policy. However, some providers like Fast Cover may require a history spanning the last 3 years, and certain serious conditions (such as cancer or heart surgery) often require disclosure regardless of how long ago they occurred (Sources: 1Cover, Smartraveller, Wise).
All Clear Travel Insurance
All Clear Travel Insurance covers a range of pre-existing medical conditions, including:
Cardiac conditions such as high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation and heart conditions
Respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD and lung diseases
Diabetes
Stroke
Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety
Chronic conditions such as cancer, Crohn’s disease and epilepsy
It includes the following medical related features:
24-hour medical emergency helpline
Up to unlimited medical emergency expenses cover
Up to $1,000 “medical inconvenience” benefit for when you are in hospital as an in-patient
Pre-existing conditions typically covered automatically
The list below is of conditions generally covered automatically provided the condition has been stable for the last 12 months and there is no planned surgery for the condition.
Allergies
Asthma
Bell’s Palsy
Bunions
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Cataracts
Coeliac Disease
Congenital Blindness
Congenital Deafness
Type 1 or 2 Diabetes
Dry Eye Syndrome
Epilepsy
Folate Deficiency
Gastric Reflux
Goitre
Glaucoma
Graves’ Disease
Hiatus Hernia
High Cholesterol
High Blood Lipids
Hypertension
Impaired Glucose Tolerance
Insulin Resistance
Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Macular Degeneration
Meniere’s Disease
Migraine
Osteopenia
Osteoporosis
Pernicious Anaemia
Plantar Fasciitis
Raynaud’s Disease
Sleep Apnoea
Solar Keratosis
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigger Finger
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Pre-existing conditions you must declare
If you suffer from any of the conditions listed below, you will need to declare these to your insurance company. The company will then assess the condition and determine if they can provide cover. Whether your insurer covers your condition will depend on its severity, how recent it is and the extent to which it is being controlled by medication. The cost of your policy may increase as a result.
Cardiac or heart conditions
Respiratory or lung conditions
Metastatic or secondary cancer
Dementia or memory loss
If you require the accompaniment of a full-time minder
Any conditions requiring surgery in the last two years
Certain kinds of diabetes
Epilepsy
The insurer-specific medical assessment process usually involves a digital screening questionnaire during the application. According to nib and InsureandGo, this assessment typically takes between 2 and 10 minutes. You will be asked targeted questions about your specific condition: including the age you were diagnosed, medications you currently take, and any recent hospitalisations or changes in treatment. This screening allows the insurer to provide an instant decision on whether cover can be offered and what additional premium may apply (Sources: nib, InsureandGo, CGU).
Pre-existing conditions typically not covered
If you suffer from any of the conditions listed below, you won't be covered for any sections of the policy related to medical expenses/repatriation or trip cancellation/lost deposits.
Conditions where you have been given a terminal or palliative prognosis with a shortened life expectancy
If you require oxygen therapy or home oxygen for the journey
Aids defining illness
If you have had or are having an organ transplant in the future
There are also strict policy exclusions for travelling against medical advice. Insurers will not pay for any claims if a qualified medical practitioner has advised you not to travel, or if the primary purpose of your trip is to seek medical treatment (such as elective surgery or dental procedures abroad). Furthermore, cover is typically void if you fail to follow recommended medical investigations or treatments before your departure (Sources: InsureandGo, Medical Travel Shield Australia).
Travel insurance for specific pre-existing conditions
Each pre-existing conditions is likely to be treated slightly different. Some conditions are simple and straightforward, and all travel insurance treat them similarly. However, some more complex or serious conditions are treated very differently based on which travel insurance company you use. You cover can also vary based on the nature of your specific medical history.
To learn more about different pre-existing conditions, check out the links below. But remember, the best way to understand your travel insurance situation is to start the comparison and quote process.
To navigate your application successfully, it is essential to understand detailed terminology definitions for pre-existing medical conditions (PEMC). A PEMC is generally defined as any sickness, injury, or disability that you were aware of (or a reasonable person could be expected to be aware of) prior to the policy issue date. This includes conditions that manifested symptoms, required prescribed medication, or were treated by a medical practitioner. Insurers also include undiagnosed symptoms that are currently under investigation: such as unexplained chest pain or awaiting blood test results (Sources: Qantas Insurance, Australian Unity, nib).
Guidelines for Disclosing Chronic vs. Acute Conditions*
Applicants must follow specific guidelines for disclosing chronic vs. acute conditions. Chronic conditions (such as diabetes or diverticulitis) are ongoing and typically must be declared if they have been active or required medication within the insurer's disclosure window (usually 60 to 180 days). Acute conditions (such as a recent infection or a broken bone) are often considered pre-existing if they occurred shortly before travel and have not yet fully resolved without ongoing treatment or residual issues (Sources: nib, Money magazine).
Frequently asked questions
A pre-existing medical condition is a health condition that existed before you purchased your travel insurance policy. This can include chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease, as well as any medical conditions that you have received treatment for in the past.
Pregnancy related medical costs can be covered by some travel insurance policies. Our comparison tool above has a specific filter to look for travel insurance that includes it. Generally you can be covered up to a certain number of weeks, eg 30. Learn more by reading out guide to pregnancy and travel insurance.
Yes, you can still get travel insurance if you have a pre-existing medical condition. However, it's important to note that most travel insurance policies do not automatically cover pre-existing conditions. You may need to purchase a policy that specifically covers your condition, or apply for a pre-existing medical condition waiver. It's important to read the policy wording carefully and disclose all of your medical conditions when applying for travel insurance.
Travel insurance with pre-existing medical conditions can cover a range of things, including medical expenses related to your pre-existing condition, trip cancellations or interruptions due to your condition, and emergency medical evacuations. The coverage will depend on the specific policy you purchase and the severity of your condition.
When choosing a travel insurance policy for your pre-existing medical condition, it's important to compare policies from multiple providers to find the best coverage for your needs. Look for policies that specifically cover your condition, and make sure you disclose all of your medical conditions when applying. You should also consider factors such as the policy cost, coverage limits, and any exclusions or restrictions that may apply.
Obtaining medical clearance from specialists involves several steps. First, schedule an appointment with your GP or specialist to discuss your travel plans. Second, request a 'Physician's Letter' that outlines your condition, medications, and any required equipment. Third, if your airline or insurer requires it, have the specialist complete a specific medical clearance form (such as the Qantas or Virgin Australia Medical Clearance Guidelines). Finally, ensure the documentation is dated within the required timeframe (often 10 days of departure) and submit it to your travel provider for review (Sources: St Vincent's Heart Health, Virgin Australia, Doccy).
A seasoned journalist with over 10 years of experience in news, politics and finance reporting, Tim has previously held roles at the ABC, SBS and Fairfax Media. Tim’s expert insights have been quoted in The Australian, The Daily Telegraph, The Courier Mail and more. He regularly appears on TV and radio, and has been interviewed on 7 News, Sunrise, SBS News, ABC Local, 3AW and 5AA. Tim is passionate about simplifying complex insurance topics for Australian consumers. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Politics) from Macquarie University and a Tier 1 General Insurance (General Advice) certification, which meets the requirements of ASIC Regulatory Guide 146 (RG146).
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I had a craniotomy in April to remove a meningioma and want to have a holiday overseas in October or November is there an insurance company that will cover me I have not had any adverse affect from the surgery I am back to work full time and my next check up with the surgeon is next June, I had been getting cover prior to having the operation as I had the tumour for 5 years before they decide to remove it.,
Finder
RichardJuly 27, 2015Finder
Hi Pam,
Thanks for your question. Exception criteria vary from insurer so there is not a hard yes or no answer. However, InsureandGo claim to consider all conditions and CoverMore assess medical conditions prior to issuing travel insurance.
These are just two providers from our panel that may be able to help and there may be other insurers out there that are suitable for your needs. Please make sure to read the eligibility criteria, features, and details of the policy, as well as the relevant Product Disclosure Statement of the policy before making a decision and consider whether the product is right for you. If necessary, speak to the insurance brand to verify any details.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
geoffJuly 15, 2015
My partner and I will be taking a cruise in December this year for 14 nights, south pacific & NZ my partners father has alzheimers and is over 85 years old can we get travel insurance that covers cancellation in case he is hospitalised by chance?
Finder
MauriceJuly 15, 2015Finder
Hi Geoff,
Thanks for your question. Some travel insurers may cover the costs of such cancellation if you disclose the pre-existing medical condition of any family members and allow for what is called a pre-existing medical condition waiver.
What exact pre-existing conditions are covered however e.g. Alzheimers, will largely depend on the providers specific policies surrounding general exclusions, so it is best to speak to them directly.
Hope this is useful.
Cheers,
Maurice
TommyJune 16, 2015
Can I get travel insurance for
Nonischemic cardiomyopathy
Finder
RichardJune 17, 2015Finder
Hi Tommy,
Thanks for your question.
Exception criteria vary from insurer so there is not a hard yes or no answer. However, InsureandGo and CoverMore claim to consider all conditions and may help as they assess medical conditions prior to travel issuing travel insurance.
Please make sure to read the eligibility criteria, features, and details of the policy, as well as the relevant Product Disclosure Statement of the policy before making a decision and consider whether the product is right for you. If necessary, speak to the insurance brand to verify any details.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
CHARLESJanuary 17, 2015
I WOULD APPRECIATE CLARIFICATION ON THE FOLLOWING POINTS.
1.MY GP REGULARLY SENDS ME FOR COLONOSCOPY/SKIN CANCER/ETC CHECKS EVERY FEW YEARS AND SOME INVOLVE HOSPITALS AND PRIVATE DAY SURGERYS.IS THIS ON-GOING HEALTH MAINTENANCE CALLED HOSPITALISATION?
2.WHEN I AM QUOTED FOR TRAVEL INSURANCE IS IT FOR TRAVEL PLUS ALL OTHER COVERS INCLUDING MEDICAL. IF I HAVE A PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITION WHICH IS NOT GOING TO BE COVERED, DOES THE QUOTATION GET REDUCED AFTER THE MDF IS SUBMITTED, AND MEDICAL COVER REFUSED.
3.A SINGLE DESTINATION IS REQUESTED WHEN A TRAVEL COVER QUOTE IS SOUGHT. IS IT MORE ECONOMICAL TO GO FOR INDIVIDUAL TRIP COVER? SHOULD THAT COVER START WHEN (JUST BEFORE) THE TICKET IS PURCHASED, OR THE TRIP COMMENCES?
Finder
RichardJanuary 19, 2015Finder
Hi Charles,
Thanks for your a question. First, what is and isn’t a pre existing condition depends on the insurer. Second, you’re covered for what ever is stipulated in you travel insurance PDS – if you are getting cover for a pre-existing condition and the condition is approved, you’ll generally have to pay an additional premium. Third, The destination sought is the destination on the journey where you’re planning on spending the most amount of time. The cover starts when you begin your journey.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
HelenMay 15, 2015
Hi there,
My daughter is unable to get cover for pre existing conditions. Is there any way she can be treated overseas (should an incident occur relating to pre exiting) acknowledging the fact that we would incur the cost
She is travelling to Europe
Thanks Helen
Finder
RichardMay 15, 2015Finder
Hi Helen,
Thanks for your question. If you contact the insurer, you should be able to arrange cover for things like cancellation, lost luggage, etc and exclude cover for anything arising from your daughters condition.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
CHARLESJanuary 30, 2015
Thank you very much for your previous answers on the 19/1/15. I have been thinking about it and have the following supplementary questions.
1.IF I PURCHASE NON-REFUNFABLE TICKETS NOW FOR A FLIGHT 11 MONTHS LATER (WHICH IS POSSIBLE),I THOUGHT THAT I WOULD HAVE TO TAKE OUT INSURANCE FROM THE DATE OF TICKET PURCHASE, IN CASE OF CANCELLATION, RATHER THAN FROM THE DATE THAT TRAVEL COMMENCES. IS THIS NOT SO?
2.IS TRAVEL INSURANCE FULLY ENCOMPASSING OF ALL RISKS/LOSSES, OR WILL INSURANCE COMPANIES ALLOW THE TRAVELLER TO SELECT INDIVIDUAL COVERS SUCH AS CANCELLATION AND BAGGAGE ALONE?
WITH THANKS,
CHARLES
Finder
RichardJanuary 30, 2015Finder
HI Charles,
As long as you take out cover for the trip, prior to the event that causes you to cancel your trip, you ought to be covered. Some policies do have stripped down cover for example personal liability and medical, baggage and cancellation and medical only.
Can someone with Alzheimer's get travel insurance? This guide looks at purchasing cover for dementia and provides tips for travelling with a dementia sufferer.
Most insurers cover Epilepsy as a pre-existing medical condition however you must ensure that the variant of Epilepsy is covered by your policy. Read more.
This guide looks at mental illness, how insurers treat this pre-existing medical condition and provides tips on where to get insurance cover and advice.
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I had a craniotomy in April to remove a meningioma and want to have a holiday overseas in October or November is there an insurance company that will cover me I have not had any adverse affect from the surgery I am back to work full time and my next check up with the surgeon is next June, I had been getting cover prior to having the operation as I had the tumour for 5 years before they decide to remove it.,
Hi Pam,
Thanks for your question. Exception criteria vary from insurer so there is not a hard yes or no answer. However, InsureandGo claim to consider all conditions and CoverMore assess medical conditions prior to issuing travel insurance.
These are just two providers from our panel that may be able to help and there may be other insurers out there that are suitable for your needs. Please make sure to read the eligibility criteria, features, and details of the policy, as well as the relevant Product Disclosure Statement of the policy before making a decision and consider whether the product is right for you. If necessary, speak to the insurance brand to verify any details.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
My partner and I will be taking a cruise in December this year for 14 nights, south pacific & NZ my partners father has alzheimers and is over 85 years old can we get travel insurance that covers cancellation in case he is hospitalised by chance?
Hi Geoff,
Thanks for your question. Some travel insurers may cover the costs of such cancellation if you disclose the pre-existing medical condition of any family members and allow for what is called a pre-existing medical condition waiver.
What exact pre-existing conditions are covered however e.g. Alzheimers, will largely depend on the providers specific policies surrounding general exclusions, so it is best to speak to them directly.
Hope this is useful.
Cheers,
Maurice
Can I get travel insurance for
Nonischemic cardiomyopathy
Hi Tommy,
Thanks for your question.
Exception criteria vary from insurer so there is not a hard yes or no answer. However, InsureandGo and CoverMore claim to consider all conditions and may help as they assess medical conditions prior to travel issuing travel insurance.
Please make sure to read the eligibility criteria, features, and details of the policy, as well as the relevant Product Disclosure Statement of the policy before making a decision and consider whether the product is right for you. If necessary, speak to the insurance brand to verify any details.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
I WOULD APPRECIATE CLARIFICATION ON THE FOLLOWING POINTS.
1.MY GP REGULARLY SENDS ME FOR COLONOSCOPY/SKIN CANCER/ETC CHECKS EVERY FEW YEARS AND SOME INVOLVE HOSPITALS AND PRIVATE DAY SURGERYS.IS THIS ON-GOING HEALTH MAINTENANCE CALLED HOSPITALISATION?
2.WHEN I AM QUOTED FOR TRAVEL INSURANCE IS IT FOR TRAVEL PLUS ALL OTHER COVERS INCLUDING MEDICAL. IF I HAVE A PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITION WHICH IS NOT GOING TO BE COVERED, DOES THE QUOTATION GET REDUCED AFTER THE MDF IS SUBMITTED, AND MEDICAL COVER REFUSED.
3.A SINGLE DESTINATION IS REQUESTED WHEN A TRAVEL COVER QUOTE IS SOUGHT. IS IT MORE ECONOMICAL TO GO FOR INDIVIDUAL TRIP COVER? SHOULD THAT COVER START WHEN (JUST BEFORE) THE TICKET IS PURCHASED, OR THE TRIP COMMENCES?
Hi Charles,
Thanks for your a question. First, what is and isn’t a pre existing condition depends on the insurer. Second, you’re covered for what ever is stipulated in you travel insurance PDS – if you are getting cover for a pre-existing condition and the condition is approved, you’ll generally have to pay an additional premium. Third, The destination sought is the destination on the journey where you’re planning on spending the most amount of time. The cover starts when you begin your journey.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
Hi there,
My daughter is unable to get cover for pre existing conditions. Is there any way she can be treated overseas (should an incident occur relating to pre exiting) acknowledging the fact that we would incur the cost
She is travelling to Europe
Thanks Helen
Hi Helen,
Thanks for your question. If you contact the insurer, you should be able to arrange cover for things like cancellation, lost luggage, etc and exclude cover for anything arising from your daughters condition.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
Thank you very much for your previous answers on the 19/1/15. I have been thinking about it and have the following supplementary questions.
1.IF I PURCHASE NON-REFUNFABLE TICKETS NOW FOR A FLIGHT 11 MONTHS LATER (WHICH IS POSSIBLE),I THOUGHT THAT I WOULD HAVE TO TAKE OUT INSURANCE FROM THE DATE OF TICKET PURCHASE, IN CASE OF CANCELLATION, RATHER THAN FROM THE DATE THAT TRAVEL COMMENCES. IS THIS NOT SO?
2.IS TRAVEL INSURANCE FULLY ENCOMPASSING OF ALL RISKS/LOSSES, OR WILL INSURANCE COMPANIES ALLOW THE TRAVELLER TO SELECT INDIVIDUAL COVERS SUCH AS CANCELLATION AND BAGGAGE ALONE?
WITH THANKS,
CHARLES
HI Charles,
As long as you take out cover for the trip, prior to the event that causes you to cancel your trip, you ought to be covered. Some policies do have stripped down cover for example personal liability and medical, baggage and cancellation and medical only.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard