LONDON, Sept. 30, 2024 — A significant majority (69%) of individuals with pre-existing medical conditions acknowledge that they would be unable to cover the costs of medical treatment in popular holiday destinations without travel insurance. However, a smaller percentage would prioritize purchasing comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on their journeys.
AllClear conducted a survey of over 2,000 British individuals, inquiring about their understanding of potential medical expenses in various destinations. The findings revealed that individuals with medical conditions identified the following countries as locations where they would be financially unprepared for medical expenses if they fell ill or required hospitalization without travel insurance: USA (53%), Canada (35%), Australia (34%), Thailand (31%), Jamaica (31%), and India (29%).
This research highlights a concerning trend: a growing number of individuals with pre-existing medical conditions are choosing to travel abroad without insurance coverage. Nationally, 49% of individuals with medical conditions admitted they would readily travel to European destinations without insurance, assuming they could easily return home if they became ill. When considering longer-haul destinations, the pressure to reduce holiday expenses resulted in 17% stating they felt compelled to purchase the cheapest insurance option, with 10% choosing to forgo coverage altogether.
While a substantial percentage are aware of the high medical costs in various countries, only a fraction, ranging from a fifth to half of survey respondents, indicated they would be willing to pay a premium for travel insurance to ensure the best possible medical coverage.
Garry Nelson, Head of Corporate Affairs at AllClear Travel Insurance, commented: “For older travelers – and many with medical conditions – autumn is an ideal time for holiday travel: destinations are less crowded, prices are more affordable, and ample sunshine remains.”
“Our latest data suggests that many individuals traveling abroad with medical conditions are potentially putting themselves at risk by not securing the most suitable medical coverage for their trips. The costs of medical treatment abroad are widely recognized, yet some individuals still opt for budget travel policies.
The concerning aspect is compounded by the fact that one in four British holidaymakers (25%) who have or will travel abroad this year have a pre-existing medical condition. Failure to disclose relevant medical information during the travel insurance purchase process can render the policy invalid – and falling ill in certain countries without travel insurance could potentially result in financial hardship, even jeopardizing a person’s home. This constitutes a significant industry challenge that demands prompt and decisive action.”
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