Travel Insurance Advice

No traveller expects to fall sick on his or her holiday, but having insurance certainly gives you peace of mind if you’re injured and need emergency treatment, expecially if you are travelling internationally. QBE Travel Insurance helped 8,500 travellers last year with emergency assistance.

A freak accident is one thing, but what travellers might not think about is an old injury or illness coming into play. Even healthy people can run into trouble on holiday, says QBE’s Peter Andrew. He believes the rigours of travelling often make people vulnerable, with the stress of being away from home.

“People don’t generally realise the stress of going to a foreign country and coping with language difficulties and climatic differences. All of those things can make an illness flare up while you’re away,” he said.

Which is why disclosing an existing medical condition is so important when signing up for travel insurance. If you don’t notify your insurer about your complete medical history, you may be refused a claim if you become sick with a recurring problem.

Even for travellers with an existing medical condition, Andrew says it’s rare for QBE Travel to not offer a policy. “Even if you’re really sick we can still provide you with insurance for baggage. Or we may cover your medical, but just not for your existing condition.”

The Insurance Council of Australia also has advice when it comes to medical insurance while you travel: “For the USA, Japan and Europe, make sure you have unlimited cover for hospital and medical costs - $500,000 is not uncommon for medical expenses in the United States. Australia does have reciprocal rights with some countries for Medicare-type cover (eg UK). A brochure that lists these countries is usually available at airports or through travel agents. PLEASE NOTE: Beds may not be available in a public hospital and you may still end up being treated and charged as a private patient.”

“Most quality policies include full medical evacuation. However, don't assume anything until you have checked with your insurer or agent. Don't book a first class seat so you can stretch out your broken leg before checking with your assistance provider.”

Source: Insurance Council of Australia
www.ica.com.au