Insurance for pre-existing conditions

[Hallstone]

We have recently returned from the Balmoral World Cruise. Last summer (following an Adriatic cruise) I developed a very severe cold and chest infection which left me with an ear infection which would not clear up. My GP sent me to see a consultant and the situation cleared up last November. My GP advised me to inform the Insurance Company of this pre-existing condition which he said would result in an additional premium.

However, as the insurance was taken out over the Internet they said this condition was excluded from the policy. Therefore, I had no insurance cover for an ear infection on a cruise lasting 4 months. We are now doing South America on Black Watch in January 2011 and in addition to the ear infection my partner is, this week, having a prostate operation. As Fred Olsen attracts the older cruisers, many of whom have health problems, how do they fare with regard to pre-existing conditions and insurance? Can anyone advise me?

[balf]

This is a difficult situation for all of us who have medical problems, even if as in my case of a heart valve replacement and the operation was 11 years ago and no trouble since.

 

 

 

I can't see why, because the policy was taken out on line this should mean that alterations cannot be made to reflect changing conditions.

 

When you take out an insurance (or as in your case wish to change the conditions) you will normally be asked if you have any medical condition to declare. If you have you will then be asked to contact another number where you will be told if you can be covered or not. It may be that the insurance company will agree to cover the precondition with or without an additional fee, or may refuse cover completely.

 

I would contact them again and ask to be given the number of their medical department (most companies use a specialist company for this) they should be able to help, even if the answer is no. Also it is worth reading the conditions of cover in the policy.

 

David

[Hallstone]

Many thanks Balf - I will look into this.

[zennor]

I've always used Direct Travel for annual travel insurance. I have tried renewing over the internet but as soon as I answer Yes to some pre-existing condiotions, it asks me to telephone. I then answer all the questions & am offered insurance with a higher premium but at least I am covered. We have used them for several years & had no trouble claiming when I did have to cancel when I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer 11 years ago. As I have no reoccurance, I am now covered again albeit with a higher premium. They do cover cruises & recently covered Volcanic Ash issues.

[westmorland sailor]

We have recently returned from the Balmoral World Cruise. Last summer (following an Adriatic cruise) I developed a very severe cold and chest infection which left me with an ear infection which would not clear up. My GP sent me to see a consultant and the situation cleared up last November. My GP advised me to inform the Insurance Company of this pre-existing condition which he said would result in an additional premium.

However, as the insurance was taken out over the Internet they said this condition was excluded from the policy. Therefore, I had no insurance cover for an ear infection on a cruise lasting 4 months. We are now doing South America on Black Watch in January 2011 and in addition to the ear infection my partner is, this week, having a prostate operation. As Fred Olsen attracts the older cruisers, many of whom have health problems, how do they fare with regard to pre-existing conditions and insurance? Can anyone advise me?

 

 

Yes this is a problem - you should have paperwork from the insurance company with relevant telephone numbers on and in some part of the paperwork it should mention pre-existing conditions and a number to ring. I always inform my insurance company (I have an annual policy) as soon as anything happens and they give me a reference number and then tell me whether i am covered or not. You need to have that conversation with your insurers. They can easily disqualify a claim if you have not kept them up to date with your medical condition.

 

I am not sure about internet policies but I am sure they are bound by the same regulations as other insurers. You could always check with citizens advice if you are unsure and need peace of mind I am sure they might be able to advise.