Heart Disease And Travel Insurance

There are a few travel insurance options* if you have heart disease:

• You can obtain travel insurance, but if you want your heart condition to be covered, you’ll need to pay an additional premium; or
• you can obtain travel insurance, but it will mandatory to purchase coverage for your heart condition; or
• your condition won’t be covered at all, but you can still purchase travel insurance.

Please note, there’s a possibility we might not be able to cover you at all, but we will tell you this after you have disclosed your condition and we have made an assessment.

How do i let you know about my heart condition? 

The process is simple and quick. You don’t need to call us and you don’t need to provide doctor’s certificates or other documents. All you need to do is fill out a simple questionnaire when you’re purchasing a policy online.

You’ll be asked about pre-existing conditions during your online purchase and if you select ‘yes', you’ll fill out the questionnaire. This is where we’ll ask you everything we need to know about your heart disease. 

Once you’ve filled out this questionnaire, you’ll immediately find out your travel insurance options.

before You take off

• Consider the type of holiday you’re choosing.  It’s important to consult your doctor when you’re planning a holiday. Things like mountain treks can take a toll on your body unless your condition is well managed. That’s because  high altitudes mean there is less oxygen in the air and therefore less oxygen in your blood. Holidays that involve a lot of activity may also have a similar impact, so make sure your doctor gives you the all-clear. 
• Have a pre-trip check-up. Just before you’re due to depart, visit your doctor for another check-up to make sure your condition is still under control and it’s safe for you to travel.
• Go to the doctor or pharmacy and stock up on more medication than you need.  If your trip home is delayed, you’ll want to have extra on hand. 
• Ask your doctor to write a letter that details your condition and medication. Keep this with you at all times while you’re travelling. 
• Make sure your medicines are packed in your hand luggage in case your luggage is lost/stolen or there are delays.
• If you're in a new time zone you'll need to adjust the time you take your medication. Check with your doctor. 
• If travelling by plane reserve your seat and print out our boarding pass in advance. This helps maximize your chance of getting a seat with good legroom and eases the stress of check-in. Be sure to check in well ahead of time.
• Tell anyone you're travelling with about your condition and the plan for when you experience symptoms. 

While you're away

• Pacemakers are often detected by security machines at airports. Let security staff know that you have it before you walk through. The security machines will generally not interfere with your device. 
• If you have a pacemaker, keep all the details at hand. You’ll need to know the manufacturer, model and serial number in case anything happens while you’re away.
• If you lose your medication or run out of medication while you’re away, you might consider visiting the emergency room of the nearest hospital.
• Reduce stress. Travelling is fun but it can also be stressful. Give yourself plenty of time to do everything you need to at the airport so you’re not running around at the last minute.
• Move around. Staying seated for prolonged periods may increase the risk of developing blood clots and leg swelling. Stand up and stretch at least every two hours. Also, avoid alcohol and sleeping pills when you're flying, unless you have your doctor's advice.
• Eat your own snacks. Processed airline snacks can be full of salt, and it’s wise to go easy on the salt when you have a heart condition. 
• Be very vigilant if you get diarrhea or stomach problems. Electrolyte and fluid imbalances can be risky for someone with a heart condition.Take oral rehydration salts if they’re available and seek medical attention.