Got A Defibrillator Fitted? How Does It Affect Your Travel Insurance In The UK?
One thing that many people forget about when traveling abroad
is travel insurance. This insurance is purchased to cover financial
and other losses while you're out of the country. You can either
arrange your travel insurance one trip at a time, when you book
your travel, or have more continuous insurance issued. Which option
is better for you will depend on how often you travel. Travel agencies,
travel insurance companies, and travel suppliers like cruise lines
all often offer travel insurance.
One of the most common reasons to get travel insurance is to make
sure that medical help is available, should there be an accident
or other medical incident while you're traveling. In countries
that require up front payment for medical treatment, travelers
could find themselves in a bad spot without travel insurance coverage.
Travel insurance can be obtained to cover medical expenses, emergency
evacuation, injury, and loss of income from medical problems suffered
while you are aboard.
However, people who have had a defibrillator fitted recently may
discover some difficulties getting travel insurance. This is because
this may qualify as a pre-existing condition. Insurance companies
tend to increase your rate if they feel that you are more of a
risk. It is however very important to declare your defibrillator
when you apply for travel insurance. Otherwise, you might find
that you are not covered if something goes wrong. The travel insurance
company might state that your pre-existing condition invalidates
you for coverage.
If you find that a standard travel insurance policy does not cover
you, you may be able to find a specialty policy that will. Be aware
that specialty insurance policies have different rates and requirements
than standard travel insurance. You can find out more about these
kinds of policies and how your travel insurance will be affected
by a defibrillator by asking an insurance broker. Brokers are agents
hired to help you find the best insurance for your needs. A specialist
broker will have knowledge about all the areas of travel insurance
that might be a problem for you.
People with known heart problems should be aware that airline
regulations prevent them from traveling on a plane until around
10-14 days after a heart attack, and plan their travel insurance
accordingly. It's important that your insurance be for an amount
that would allow for hospital and hotel stays until this airline
delay is over. It's also a good idea to take out a travel insurance
policy that carries 24-hour emergency service. That way, you can
report any trouble to the insurance company right away, and know
that you'll be covered. Always make sure that your medical coverage
is adequate for the country you will be traveling in, and know
where the nearest medical facilities are if you are worried about
having any trouble abroad. By notifying your travel insurer of
all possible problems, you can enjoy yourself, assured that you
will be able to get the medical care you need in case of an incident.