A pre-existing condition, broadly defined, is a health condition known to you before you travel. It may be a diagnosis or just symptoms you experienced prior to your trip. For example, if you visit a medical professional and they give you a diagnosis, or even suggest that you have some tests done, that qualifies as a pre-existing condition for most insurance policies.

Most policies do not cover pre-existing health conditions that occurred during a certain time period, such as six months, before your trip. This time frame varies based on your chosen insurance plan.  In addition, if you have a medical emergency that is addressed through your insurance and that emergency ends, then the same issue or issues related to it recur, no further benefits are payable because it is now deemed a pre-existing condition.

It’s important to know your policy limitations and your insurer’s criteria for pre-existing medical conditions. Make sure you confirm these details, disclose all of your health conditions to your insurer, and advise them of any changes to your health prior to your trip.

If you currently have a condition, check your policy to see if you would be covered were an emergency to arise.