How Seniors Can Get Cancer Travel Insurance

Seniors diagnosed with cancer face unique challenges when planning to travel, including securing travel insurance that covers their pre-existing condition. This article outlines the steps seniors can take to find and secure cancer travel insurance.

1. Understanding Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage: Travel insurance policies often exclude pre-existing conditions from coverage. However, some insurers offer waivers that can include coverage for pre-existing conditions like cancer if certain conditions are met, such as purchasing the policy within a specific timeframe after making the first trip payment .

2. Medical Clearance: Before considering travel insurance, seniors must consult with their healthcare provider to ensure they are medically cleared to travel. This medical clearance is often a requirement for insurance companies .

3. Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver: To be covered for losses due to a pre-existing condition like cancer, seniors need to purchase travel insurance that includes a Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver. This waiver allows coverage for pre-existing conditions if certain requirements are met, such as purchasing the policy within 14 days of making the first trip payment or deposit, being a resident at the time of purchase, and being medically able to travel .

4. Full Coverage of Trip Costs: Ensure that the full non-refundable cost of the trip is insured at the time of policy purchase. If additional non-refundable expenses are incurred after purchasing insurance, contact the insurance provider within 14 days to add them to the plan .

5. Cost of Travel Insurance: Having cancer or any other pre-existing condition does not affect the cost of travel insurance. The cost is based on age, trip length, trip cost, and the type of plan selected .

6. Specialized Insurance Providers: Some insurance companies specialize in policies for people with pre-existing medical conditions, including cancer. It's worth shopping around and considering insurance brokers as well as travel insurance companies .

7. Information to Have Ready: When applying for travel insurance, seniors should be prepared to provide details about their cancer, such as type, stage, treatment, and prognosis. They should also be ready to answer questions about their travel plans .

8. Comparing Policies: It's important to compare different policies and understand what each covers. Some policies may not cover individuals with pre-existing conditions or those over 70 years old .

9. Using Insurance Brokers and Comparison Websites: Insurance brokers can help arrange a policy or provide a list of companies with special policies for cancer patients. Comparison websites like Money Super Market, Confused.com, and GoCompare can also be used to find suitable travel insurance .

10. Healthcare in Europe: For seniors traveling within Europe, it's important to be aware of the changes to healthcare agreements post-Brexit. A UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) may be needed to receive state-provided healthcare at a reduced cost or for free in EU countries .

Conclusion: By following these steps and being diligent in their research, seniors with cancer can find travel insurance that provides the necessary coverage and peace of mind for their trips. It's crucial to understand the specific requirements and limitations of any policy to ensure that travel plans are fully protected.