Are you planning a trip abroad? If so, you may want to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unforeseen events such as accidents or illnesses. However, when applying for travel insurance, it is essential to be honest about your medical history, as this information can determine the cost of your policy and the level of coverage you receive.
In this article, we will explore the importance of medical screening for travel insurance, what it involves, and how to avoid any surprises during the application process.
The Importance of Medical Screening
When applying for travel insurance, you will need to complete a medical declaration form that asks about your current health status and any pre-existing conditions you may have. It is crucial to be honest and provide accurate information, as failing to do so could result in your policy being cancelled or your claim being denied.
By disclosing your medical history, the insurance provider can assess the level of risk involved and customise your policy to meet your specific needs. This ensures that you have adequate coverage in case of any medical emergencies while travelling.
What is Medical Screening?
In some cases, the medical declaration form may not provide enough information for the insurance provider to accurately assess your risk. In such cases, you may be required to undergo a medical screening.
A medical screening involves a series of questions about your health and any pre-existing conditions you may have. The screening may be conducted over the phone or in person by a qualified nurse or medical professional.
The nurse will ask questions about your medical history, medication use, and any recent hospitalizations or surgeries. They may also ask about your travel plans, such as your destination, length of stay, and activities you plan to participate in.
The screening helps Millstream determine the level of risk involved and what medical coverage is required for your trip.
Can You Get Travel Insurance with a Pre-existing Condition?
It depends on your condition and how much risk is involved whilst you’re away. However, our partner Millstream has a great medical team that will support you and answer any questions you may have.
Recent client case study
One of our clients came to see us, ready for their summer holiday and needing a quote for travel insurance. Our partner Millstream supported the customer through screening with a qualified nurse due to their medical conditions.
They booked a time slot at 9.13 am for 11 am the same day for our client to receive a call from one of the qualified nurses to finalise the process by going over the medical screening together. After a friendly conversation, the nurse assured them that their condition was stable and that the client was fit-to-fly.
The client happily took out the Travel insurance with us and enjoyed their holiday without worrying about their medical cover!
It is a priceless and comforting service to have a dedicated team of qualified nurses to help with medical screening due to the complexity of some medical conditions and reassurance that the right medical cover is in place.
How to Avoid Surprises During the Application Process
To avoid any surprises during the travel insurance application process, it is essential to be honest and provide accurate information about your medical history and any pre-existing conditions you may have.
You should also read the policy documents carefully to understand the coverage and any exclusions that may apply. If you are unsure about any of the policy terms, you can contact Millstream for clarification.
Wherever you travel, we’ve got you covered
Our comprehensive annual European travel insurance for families starts from as little as £155 and includes great features as standard.
What you are covered for
- Trip Cancellation/Curtailment: We cover prepaid travel and
accommodation costs. - Emergency Medical Expenses: We cover medical costs during your trip.
- Personal Accident: We pay for illness or injury expenses during your trip
- Travel Disruption: Compensation for delays and cancellations.
- Political Unrest/Natural Catastrophe Evacuation: Safe evacuation during crises.
- Collision Damage Waiver: Covers car rental accident costs.
- Winter Sports: Protects winter sports equipment and
arrangements. - Missed Departure/Connection: Covers missed flights due to
various reasons. - Business Travel: Expenses for staff replacement and more.
- Uninhabitable Accommodation: Alternative accommodation due to disasters.
- Personal Liability: Covers damages to third parties or property.
- Legal Expenses: Handles legal costs and representation.
- SmartDelay Plus: Lounge access or cash for flight delays.
- Delayed Baggage: Reimbursement for delayed baggage.
- Loss of Passport/License Expenses: Compensation for replacements.
FAQs
Have a question about our travel insurance policies?
How can I contact Millstream?
You can contact Millstream at:
- Claims and Assistance Helpline:+44 (0)330 660 0758
- Travel Customer Services: +44 (0)330 660 0758
- Medical Screening Service: +44 (0)330 660 0758
For more details, log in to your portal.
Am I insured if I am pregnant?
Yes, you’re covered if you travel more than 12 weeks before or after your due date and your doctor hasn’t advised against it.
However, the policy only covers unexpected pregnancy complications, it does not cover routine costs related to pregnancy or childbirth.
Can I cancel the policy?
Yes, you can cancel your policy within 14 days of receiving it for a refund.
However, if you travel, make a claim, or plan to make a claim during this period, Millstream may deduct any costs for services you’ve used.
If you cancel after 14 days, you won’t get a refund.
If my Doctor says I’m fit to travel, do I still need to tell Millstream my medical conditions?
Yes, you may still need to tell Millstream about your medical conditions.
Millstream has a set of questions to determine whether you need to declare your conditions. Some conditions are automatically covered at no extra cost, and you can find the full list in the Medical Conditions section of the policy wording.
Keep in mind that Millstream only covers conditions that have been fully diagnosed by a medical professional.
What about the medical conditions of someone not insured by this policy?
This policy does not cover claims under Cancellation (Section 1) or Curtailment (Section 2) if they relate to a pre-existing medical condition of:
- A travel companion who is not insured under this policy.
- An immediate relative who is not traveling and not insured under this policy.
- A close business associate.
- Someone you plan to stay with during your trip.
If you knew about their medical condition when you booked your trip or took out this policy, any related claims won’t be covered.
Will this policy cover private healthcare?
This policy is travel insurance, not private medical insurance. It covers emergency medical treatment, not ongoing care.
Treatment is usually given at a state-run facility, like A&E in the UK. But if that’s not possible, private treatment may be covered – if Millstream approves it first.
If needed, Millstream will arrange to bring you home as soon as it’s safe.