Insurance comparison websites are great tools for finding a range of quotes quicklyy without visiting 20 different websites, but for one in five Brits they are almost useless.
Or at least they were, until last Tuesday (17 January).
MoneySupermarket.com has released the first travel insurance comparison site in the UK which takes into account pre existing medical conditions, something that affects around 20 per cent of Brits.
While the service currently includes just nine different insurers, more companies are expected to be added over the coming months.
Analysis from MoneySupermarket.com shows that travel insurance premiums covering pre-existing medical conditions range significantly depending on the condition and the age of the individual, and the new program takes this into account.
For example, a 45 year old female with asthma taking a 7 day break to Europe could pay just £12.70 on a policy which covers the condition. A couple in their fifties with one partner suffering from a major heart condition could pay as little as £68.16 for 7 days in Cyprus, but would be covered for every eventuality where a standard travel insurance policy would not cover the condition.
James Clarke, travel insurance expert at moneysupermarket.com said, “previously, customers needing a travel insurance policy for a pre-existing medical condition would have had to approach individual providers with the relevant details and medical information, one by one, in order to obtain the best deal.
“With the launch of the new site, customers will find a range of comprehensive travel insurance deals all in once place, and will only need to enter their details once in order to find the best quote.”
According to Clarke, one in five people require a travel insurance policy which covers them for a pre existing medical condition, but many take standard insurance as they think their condition is too minor to disclose.
This is a false security though, as sometimes doing this can de-validate the policy. Insurers will classify conditions such as mild asthma or high blood pressure in this category, and travellers need to purchase adequate insurance if they, or anyone in their party, suffer from a pre-existing condition.
“Anyone with a pre-existing condition, no matter how minor, needs to make sure they purchase a policy which is suitable for their needs, and covers them in the event of needing to make a claim,” Clarke said.
“Although pre-existing cover will be more expensive, it is worth paying the extra premium. The cost of being declined on a travel insurance claim where you haven’t declared a pre-existing condition could be great”
