For many UK holidaymakers, visiting far-flung destinations is a top ambition—but arranging comprehensive travel insurance is essential. One common oversight during the application process is the failure to declare pre-existing medical conditions. Travellers are strongly advised to be thorough and honest about any chronic or ongoing illnesses, as any undisclosed condition can void the entire policy, leaving them exposed to potentially towering healthcare costs that can run into tens of thousands of US dollars.
Declaring pre-existing conditions is more than an administrative formality—it is a vital safeguard. Insurers routinely check medical history when a claim is lodged. Omitting a relevant condition can invalidate coverage, forcing travellers to bear the full financial burden. For instance, a late-night emergency hospital visit for an undisclosed heart condition could result in treatment bills that wipe out savings overnight.
Specialists emphasize that even relatively minor ailments, such as controlled diabetes or managed hypertension, must be fully disclosed. This includes details of medication, appointment frequency, and treatment stability prior to travel.
The risks of omission are not theoretical. The Financial Ombudsman Service reported a 19% surge in complaints in the first half of 2024 stemming from rejected claims linked to undisclosed medical conditions. These figures highlight that claim refusals are no longer rare exceptions.
The takeaway for travellers is clear: full and accurate disclosure is the foundation of any travel insurance policy that truly protects you when the unexpected happens.
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