Visitors Travel Insurance For Pre-existing Conditions

Compare and buy best visitors insurance for pre-existing conditions coverage

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What is the difference between Full Pre-Existing & Acute Onset Insurance?

Acute onset of a pre-existing condition can be defined as the sudden & unexpected occurrence of a pre-existing condition which requires in-patient, emergency hospitalization within 24 hours of exhibiting first symptoms. The main difference between acute onset & full pre-existing is that with Full Pre-Existing coverage, is that one is covered for all pre-existing conditions and associated medical costs and this includes follow up visits, hospitalizations and doctor’s visits, etc. The acute onset coverage will only cover the in-patient hospitalization expense.

What does full coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions mean?

INF plans boast they offer "full" coverage for pre-existing conditions. This can be a little misleading. Firstly, any regular treatment or medication that is required by the condition is never covered. The main advantage to the INF Elite and INF Premier is that they cover sudden illness/injury regardless of whether it is pre-existing or not. The only difference is that a pre-existing condition will be covered with a higher deductible at at a lower maximum than any other "new" illness or injury. However, coverage is not limited to an emergency or life-threatening situation.

What does "acute onset of pre-existing conditions" mean?

The "Acute Onset of a Pre-Existing Condition" is a sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence of a pre-existing medical condition which occurs without any advance warning either in the form of physician recommendations or symptoms and requires immediate care (within 24 hours of first symptoms). A Pre-Existing Condition that is a chronic or congenital condition or that gradually becomes worse over time will not be considered acute onset.

The acute onset coverage benefit does not include coverage for known, scheduled, required, or expected medical care, drugs or treatment existent or necessary prior to the effective date of coverage. An example of this might be someone who has a food allergy or bee allergy and is unknowingly exposed to their allergen and requires immediate medical attention.

Visitors insurance for pre-existing conditions

A pre-existing condition is a medical ailment that existed before the start of the visitors insurance cover. One of the biggest concerns for travelers is to buy travel health insurance for pre-existing conditions.

Good visitor insurance with Pre-existing conditions coverage is particularly important for older travelers and parents. Only some visitors insurance offer coverage for pre-existing ailments and even there the coverage is mainly for acute onset of pre-existing ailments**.

Some other international travel insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage will pay for medical expenses after the first year of coverage or a waiting period.

Best Visitors insurance plans for pre-existing conditions Visitors insurance for pre-existing conditions coverage reviews

What does visitor travel insurance cover?

stethoscope
Health care expenses
Covers hospital expenses for sickness or accidents.
person_outline
Doctor visit
Insures Doctor visits for sudden injury or sickness.
vaccines
Pharmacy drugs
Doctor prescribed eligible pharmacy drugs expenses.
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Pre-existing conditions
Some plans insure acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
medical_information
Medical evacuation

Medical evacuation expenses to nearest facility included.
repeat
Repat of remains
Repatriation of remains to home country included.

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Cost of best US travel insurance for pre-existing conditions 2024

US travel insurance cost in 2024 for visitors with pre-existing conditions has increasingly reduced the disposal income with a major portion of the income going to health care deductibles, co-payments and co-insurance. The cost of a routine physician's visit is significantly higher in the U.S. where it might be $176. An echocardiogram can cost around $1,000 in Massachusetts and around $3000 in New Jersey depending on the provider. The cost of common ailments like Diabetes Mellitus with Hyperglycemia admitted to an emergency room would cost around $2,500 -$5000. Stroke resulting in ICU for about 10 days would cost $120,000, Heart attack treatment with medical bills for ambulance, hospital emergency room, ICU, EKG and MRI heart scans and continuing care from cardiologists would cost about $20,000, The average treatment cost of acute kidney failure in the USA was over $22,000.

While there's no simple explanation for the high costs, an important contributing factor is the significant administrative expenses in healthcare and given the litigious nature of US society, the cost of medical-malpractice legal expenses. Employing numerous billing clerks by both hospitals and physicians, as well as by private insurance companies is a requirement in the US insurance system. In addition to that, the system's reliance on advanced technology, costly labor and the steep price of malpractice insurance in the US also contributes to the overall expenses.

While there are several reasons for high healthcare costs, the fact remains that one cannot afford to be uninsured while visiting the US. In US hospitals the cost for any treatment is much lower if you have insurance and the hospital is part of the PPO network when compared to getting the same treatment without any insurance. This is beyond the actual insurance coverage itself, so simply having visitors insurance reduces the bill substantially. This high price without insurance is unimaginable for visitors to pay out of their pocket. It is important for visitors to realize the importance of health insurance while visiting the US.

The visitor health insurance usa cost ranges from $16 to $150 a month. The price varies based on several factors such as the age of the visitor, medical maximum coverage, deductible for the plan, coverage type (Fixed vs comprehensive coverage), and the coverage for pre-existing conditions. For an average traveler, there are cheap travel insurance plans at less than a dollar a day.

  • INF travel insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions

    “Pre-existing Condition” means an illness, disease, or other condition of the Covered Person that in the 12-month period before the Covered Person’s coverage became effective under the Policy:

    1. first manifested itself, worsened, became acute, or exhibited symptoms that would have caused a person to seek diagnosis, care, or treatment; or
    2. required taking prescribed drugs or medicines, unless the condition for which the prescribed drug or medicine is taken remains controlled without any change in the required prescription; or
    3. was treated by a Doctor or treatment had been recommended by a Doctor.

    INF Elite Insurance

    • There is a minimum purchase of 90 days required to buy this plan.
    • This plan is available for Non-US Citizens.
    • Anyone visiting USA or Canada can enroll in this plan.
    • Elite plan with policy maximum $150,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $25,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 0 to 69 years and for policy maximum $75,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $20,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 70 to 99 years.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $768 - $860
    Coverage range $150,000 - $300,000
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    INF Elite Plus Insurance

    • There is a minimum purchase of 90 days required to buy this plan.
    • Covers Preventive & maintenance care and coverage for full body physicals. Coverage for TDAP, Flu, etc Vaccines
    • Anyone visiting USA or Canada can enroll in this plan.
    • Elite plan with policy maximum $150,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $25,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 0 to 69 years and for policy maximum $75,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $20,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 70 to 99 years.
    • Pre-Existing complications from Covid-19 covered.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $768 - $860
    Coverage range $150,000 - $300,000
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    INF Elite 90 Insurance

    • There is a minimum purchase of 90 days required to buy this plan.
    • This plan is available for Non-US Citizens.
    • Anyone visiting USA or Canada can enroll in this plan.
    • Covers 90% of eligible medical expenses
    • Elite plan with policy maximum $150,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $25,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 0 to 69 years and for policy maximum $75,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $20,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 70 to 99 years.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $752 - $841
    Coverage range $150,000 - $300,000
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    INF Premier Insurance

    • There is a minimum purchase of 90 days required to buy this plan.
    • This plan is available for Non-US Citizens & Anyone visiting USA or Canada can enroll in this plan
    • Premier plan provides policy maximum $100,000 covers pre-existing condition maximum of $20,000/$40,000 with deductible $1,000/$5000, policy maximum $150,000 covers pre-existing condition maximum of $30,000/$60,000 with deductible $1,000/$5,000 and policy maximum $300,000 covers pre-existing condition maximum of $50,000/$100,000 with deductible $1,000/$5,000 for age 0 to 69 years.
    • For age 70 to 99 years for policy maximum $100,000 covers pre-existing condition maximum of $15,000/$25,000 with deductible $1,000/$5,000.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $278 - $448
    Coverage range $150,000 - $300,000
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    INF Premier Plus Insurance

    • There is a minimum purchase of 90 days required to buy this plan.
    • This plan is available for Non-US Citizens & Anyone visiting USA or Canada can enroll in this plan
    • Covers preventive & maintenance care
    • Coverage for TDAP, Flu, etc Vaccines
    • Premier Plus plan provides policy maximum $300,000 covers pre-existing condition maximum of $50,000/$100,000 with deductible $1,000/$5,000 for age 0 to 69 years.
    • For age 70 to 99 years for policy maximum $100,000 covers pre-existing condition maximum of $15,000/$25,000 with deductible $1,000/$5,000.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range 1038
    Coverage range $300,000
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  • Patriot America Plus travel insurance coverage for Acute onset of Pre-existing condition

    Should you experience a sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence of a pre-existing condition, this coverage provides necessary emergency care for any medical emergency that is life threatening or requires immediate medical treatment. Coverage is available for travelers under age 70, and maximum limits vary by plan and age.

    Visitors Protect travel insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions

    An Illness, disease, or other condition of the Insured Person that in the twelve (12) month period before the Insured Person’s coverage became effective under this insurance: a) first manifested itself, worsened, became acute, or exhibited symptoms that would have caused a person to seek diagnosis, care, or Treatment; or b) required taking prescribed drugs or medicines, unless the condition for which the prescribed drug or medicine is taken remains controlled without any change in the required prescription; or c) was Treated by a Physician or Treatment had been recommended by a Physician.

    Patriot America Plus Insurance

    • Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to chosen maximum limit (aged up to 70 years).
    • Patriot America Plus Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus illness.
    • Available for US citizens visiting USA
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $90 - $170
    Coverage range $50,000 - $1,000,000
    Buy now shopping_cart

    Visitors Protect Insurance

    • It is an affordable plan for visitors visiting the US.
    • This plan covers pre existing condition for age 69 and below up to $25,000 and for ages 70 and above it covers up to $20,000 with deductible up to $1,500.
    • Visitors Protect Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus illness.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $485 - $728
    Coverage range $50,000 - $250,000
    Buy now shopping_cart
  • Seven Corners travel insurance coverage for Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Condition

    Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Condition(s): The occurrence of a Pre-Existing Condition that meets all the following criteria:

    • It is sudden, unexpected, and occurs without advanced warning.
    • It is a Medical Emergency.
    • It occurs during the Period of Coverage.
    • You obtained Treatment within twenty-four (24) hours of the occurrence.
    • You did not have a change in prescription or Treatment related to the underlying Pre-Existing Condition within the last thirty (30) days; and
    • Your Pre-Existing Condition is not Congenital, a previously diagnosed chronic condition with expected episodes or flare-ups, or a deteriorating condition which cannot be controlled and gradually intensifies over time.

    Travel Medical Choice Insurance

    • Travel Medical Choice available for Non US residents and citizens traveling to the US.
      • For the acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage with cardiac condition and/or stroke for age range of 14 days to 69 years, $50k coverage is available and for age range of 70 to 79 years, $5k coverage is available .
      • For the acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage other than cardiac condition and/or stroke for age range of 14 days to 69 years, $75k coverage is available and for age range of 70 to 79 years, $7,500 coverage is available .
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $160 - $290
    Coverage range $50,000 - $1,000,000
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    Travel Medical Basic Insurance

    • Travel Medical Basic available for Non US residents and citizens traveling to the US.
    • The policy maximum for this comprehensive insurance starts from $50,000 and provides up to $1,000,000. For people above age 80 years, they get a policy maximum of $10,000
    • Acute onset of pre-existing conditions are covered up to $25,000 for age under 69 years and a coverage of $2,500 for age of 70-79.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $110 - $180
    Coverage range $50,000 - $1,000,000
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  • WorldTrips travel insurance coverage for Acute onset of Pre-existing condition

    Acute onset of a pre-existing condition is a sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence that is of short duration, is rapidly progressive, and requires urgent care. A pre-existing condition that is chronic or congenital, or that gradually becomes worse over time, is not acute onset of a pre-existing condition.

    The Acute Onset of Pre-existing Condition benefit will only apply if all of the following conditions are met:
    • The Acute onset of a Pre-Existing Condition does not directly or indirectly relate to a chronic condition or congenital condition.
    • Treatment must be obtained within twenty-four (24) hours of the sudden and unexpected outbreak or reoccurrence.
    • You must be under eighty (80) years of age.
    • You must not be traveling against or in disregard of the recommendations, established treatment programs, or medical advice of a physician or other healthcare provider.
    • You must not be traveling with the intent or purpose to seek or obtain treatment for the pre-existing condition.
    • You must be traveling outside your home country.

    Atlas America Insurance

    • Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to chosen maximum limit aged up to 79 years (excludes chronic and congenital conditions).
    • Atlas America Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus illness.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $110 - $230
    Coverage range $50,000 - $2,000,000
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    Visitor Secure Insurance

    • It offers coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to 70 years.
    • Plan can be renewed up to 364 days.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $40 - $80
    Coverage range $50,000 - $130,000
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  • Trawick International travel insurance coverage for Acute onset of Pre-existing condition

    ACUTE ONSET OF PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS for an Acute Onset of a Pre-Existing Condition up to the maximum as stated in the Schedule of Benefits provided the condition or event: 1. occurs spontaneously and without advance warning either in the form of Physician recommendations or symptoms, is of short duration, is rapidly progressive, and requires urgent and immediate medical care; 2. occurs a minimum of 48 hours after the Effective Date of the Coverage; and 3. Treatment is obtained within 24 hours of the sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence.

    Any repeat/reoccurrence within the same Period of Insurance will no longer be considered Acute Onset of a Pre-Existing Condition and will not be eligible for additional coverage. This benefit covers only one (1) Acute Onset episode of a Pre-Existing Condition. Sudden and Acute Onset of a Pre-Existing Condition Coverage expires upon medical advice that the condition and onset is no longer acute, or the Covered Person is discharged from a medical Facility.

    To be eligible for the foregoing limited coverage and benefits for an Acute Onset of a Pre-existing Condition, the Covered Person must be in compliance with all Terms of this insurance. The Company will provide such coverage and benefits only when all of the following conditions and restrictions have been met.

    At the time of the Acute Onset of the Pre-existing Condition:
    • Treatment must be obtained within twenty-four (24) hours of the sudden and Unexpected outbreak or reoccurrence.
    • The Covered Person must be under seventy (70) years of age.
    • The Covered Person must not be traveling against or in disregard of the recommendations, established Treatment programs, or medical advice of a Physician or other healthcare provider.
    • The Covered Person must not be traveling with the intent or purpose to seek or obtain Treatment for the Pre-existing Condition.
    • The Covered Person must not be traveling during a period of time when the Covered Person is preparing or waiting for, involved in, or undertaking a new, changed or modified Treatment program with respect to the Pre-existing Condition, and is not traveling subsequent to any such new, changed or modified Treatment program having been advised or recommended.
    • The Pre-existing Condition must have been stabilized for at least thirty (30) days prior to the Effective Date without change in Treatment.
    • The Covered Person must be traveling outside their Habitual Country.

    Trawick International travel insurance coverage for unexpected recurrence of pre-existing conditionss

    Benefits are payable for an Unexpected Recurrence of a Pre-Existing Condition up to the maximum as stated in the Schedule of Benefits provided the condition or event: 1. occurs spontaneously and without advance warning either in the form of Physician recommendations or symptoms, is of short duration, is rapidly progressive, and requires urgent and immediate medical care; 2. occurs a minimum of 48 hours after the Effective Date of the Coverage; and 3. Treatment is obtained within 24 hours of the sudden and Unexpected outbreak or recurrence. Any repeat/reoccurrence within the same Period of Insurance will no longer be considered Unexpected Recurrence of a Pre-Existing Condition and will not be eligible for additional coverage. This benefit covers only one (1) Unexpected Recurrence of a Pre-Existing Condition per Period of Insurance. Sudden and Unexpected Recurrence of a Pre-Existing Condition Coverage expires upon medical advice that the condition and onset is no longer acute, or the Covered Person is discharged from a medical Facility.

    • Covers Acute onset of Pre-existing condition coverage: Covers Acute onset of Pre-existing condition coverage up to 69 years the limit is up to the medical maximum purchased per period of coverage and for any coverage related to cardiac disease, coverage is limited to $25,000.
    • Up to $25,000 Maximum Lifetime Limit for Emergency Medical Evacuation.
    • It offers coverage for visitors up to 89 years.
    • This plan is not available to any individual who has been residing within the United States for more than 365 days prior to their Effective Date
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $90 - $160
    Coverage range $50,000 - $1,000,000
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    Safe Travel USA Insurance

    • Covers Up to $1,000 for sudden, unexpected recurrence of a Pre-existing Condition
    • Safe travel USA Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus.
    • It offers coverage for visitors up to 89 years.
    • This plan is not available to any individual who has been residing within the United States for more than 365 days prior to their Effective Date
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $90 - $160
    Coverage range $50,000 - $1,000,000
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    • Covers unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing medical conditions up to $1000
    • This plan is not available to any individual who has been residing within the United States for more than 365 days prior to their Effective Date
    • Eligible for foreign residents visiting USA and worldwide
    • It offers coverage for visitors up to 89 years.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $70 - $120
    Coverage range $50,000 - $1,000,000
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    Safe Travels Elite Insurance

    • Foreign residents visiting USA and worldwide.
    • Plan can be renewed up to 2 years.
    • The plan provides Emergency Medical Evacuation of $100,000 for the Economy, Basic and Silver plan and covers up to policy maximum for the Gold and the Platinum plan.
    • Acute onset of pre-existing condition is covered up to policy maximum up to the age of 69.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $40 - $60
    Coverage range $50,000 - $175,000
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    • Cheap travel insurance for non-us citizens traveling to the USA.
    • It is available for travelers of ages 14 days to 89 years.
    • Acute onset of pre-existing condition is covered up to policy maximum for ages up to 89 years.
    • Cardiac Conditions or Treatment $25,000 per Policy Period Limit up to age 69 at age 70, it is limited to $15,000.
    • Coinsurance the plan pays up to 80%.
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $20 - $55
    Coverage range $25,000 - $150,000
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  • Global Underwriters travel insurance coverage for sudden and unexpected recurrence of a Pre-existing Condition

    sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence of a Pre-existing Condition(s) which occurs spontaneously and without advance warning either in the form of Physician recommendations or symptoms, is of short duration, is rapidly progressive, and requires urgent care. The Acute Onset of a Pre-existing Condition(s) must occur after the effective date of the policy. Treatment must be obtained within 24 hours of the sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence. A Pre-existing Condition that is a chronic or congenital condition or that gradually becomes worse over time will not be considered Acute Onset. This benefit does not include coverage for known, scheduled, required, or expected medical care, drugs or Treatments existent or necessary prior to the Effective Date of coverage.

    Diplomat America Insurance

    • This plan is for Non Us citizens and Non US residents visiting the US.
    • Covers pre-Existing condition exclusion: 24 Months prior to the start date of coverage
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $130 - $220
    Coverage range $50,000 - $1,000,000
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  • Travel Insure travel insurance coverage for Acute Onset of Pre-existing Condition

    Acute Onset of Pre-existing Condition means a sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence of a preexisting condition(s) which occurs spontaneously and without advance warning either in the form of physician recommendations or symptoms, is of short duration, is rapidly progressive, and requires urgent care. The Acute Onset of a Pre-existing Condition(s) must occur after the certificate effective date. Treatment must be obtained within 24 hours of the sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence. A pre-existing condition that is a chronic or congenital condition, or a complication or consequence of a chronic or congenital condition, or a condition that gradually becomes worse over time will not be considered Acute Onset. This benefit does not include coverage for known, scheduled, required, or expected medical care, drugs or treatments existent or necessary prior to the certificate effective date.

    Visit USA Insurance

    • Visit USA Insurance is an excellent medical insurance for tourists and holiday travelers, parents of students studying in the United States, new immigrants and visiting scholars in the USA.
    • Visit USA offers 3 plans to satify your requirements and budget.
    • Covers Acute onset pre-Existing condition up to Ages 65 and above: $2,500 ; All others: $20,000(excludes chronic and congenital conditions)
    Estimate Plan Cost
    Price range $50 - $190
    Coverage range $50,000 - $250,000
    Buy now shopping_cart

Travel Insurance tips for travelers with Pre-Existing Conditions

Here are some travel insurance tips for travelers with pre-existing conditions

  1. Choose a travel health insurance plan that covers pre-existing conditions.
  2. Read the policy carefully to understand what is covered and what is not.
  3. Be aware of any waiting periods for coverage of pre-existing conditions.
  4. Consider buying a visitors insurance policy with higher coverage limits.
  5. Carry a copy of your medical records and list of medications with you when traveling.
  6. Ensure that you carry your medical prescription and medicines during your trip.
  7. Know how to access medical care in your destination.
  8. Contact your visitors insurance provider immediately in case of any medical emergency.
  9. Disclose all pre-existing conditions when buying visitors health insurance.
  10. Follow all necessary procedures to file a claim for reimbursement of medical expenses.

What is visitors insurance for pre-existing conditions?

There are several visitors insurance plans available for international travel. However many visitors insurance and travel insurance plans exclude pre-existing conditions. This means that a travel insurance plan will not cover the costs of treating a pre-existing medical condition. The insurance company can therefore deny a claim if the ailment was pre-existing when the travel insurance was purchased. However, there are some travel health insurance plans which do offer coverage for pre-existing conditions with the policy clearly defining a look back period and what is covered for pre-existing conditions as well as specifying a limit for this coverage.

Some travel health insurance plans like Atlas America, Patriot America Plus offer coverage for the acute onset of a pre-existing conditions, ie, when there is a sudden medical emergency without any prior symptom that needs to be treated immediately. The coverage typically includes emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and evacuation expenses related to the acute onset of the pre-existing condition. INF insurance however has the INF Elite insurance plans which cover pre-existing conditions going beyond the acute onset coverage. It is important to compare visitors insurance for pre-existing conditions both for the price as well as the specific details for pre-existing conditions coverage as well as review the policy brochures for exclusions and coverage limits before making a decision.

How does travel insurance for pre-existing conditions work?

The travel health insurance plans which cover pre-existing conditions have clear definitions of what is a pre-existing condition, the look back period for pre-existing condition, whether the travel insurance coverage is limited to acute onset of pre-existing conditions, and if it provides full coverage for pre-existing conditions the coverage limit within the policy for pre-existing conditons. Any travel health insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions will depend on all these.

What are the factors to consider while purchasing visitors health insurance for pre existing conditions?

The following are the factors to consider while purchasing travel insurance for pre-existing conditions

  1. The definition of pre-existing conditions and the look back period under the policy.
  2. The eligibility age limit for pre-existing conditions coverage.
  3. Whether pre-existing condition coverage is limited to acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
  4. The coverage limit for pre-existing conditions which is different from the policy medical maximum.
  5. The deductible and out of pocket expenses for pre-existing conditions coverage.

Why is travel health insurance for pre-existing conditions coverage important?

There are many international travelers who have medical ailments and it is important for them to be well informed about visitors insurance for pre-existing conditions. Many of the regular travel insurance plans exclude any coverage for pre-existing conditions. The definition of pre-existing conditions varies for different insurance providers as they have a ‘look back’ period and any medical ailments during this look back period would be considered pre-existing. At American Visitor Insurance, we offer plans which do offer coverage for acute onset of a pre-existing condition, as well as full coverage for pre-existing conditions up to a clearly defined limit in the policy document. All of these details can be better understood by using our facility for comparing visitors insurance for pre-existing conditions.

Pre-existing conditions coverage - FAQ's

01. How do I know if my pre-existing condition is covered by travel insurance?

Unfortunately, this simple question has a fairly complicated answer. The answer is: it depends. Firstly, it depends on whether you are a US resident traveling outside the US or a visitor to the US. US residents can purchase trip cancellation insurance that can cover pre-existing conditions and even plans that are travel medical only without cancellation often are more generous in their coverage of pre-existing conditions. These plans may have specific requirements in order to waive the usual exclusion of coverage for pre-existing conditions (like purchase them within a certain number of days of your initial trip deposit or that you have a primary domestic insurance plan in the US), so you should check these details carefully if this is important to you.

Non-US residents or US residents traveling into the US have much more limited options to insure their pre-existing conditions are covered. Some plans offer coverage for "acute onset" of pre-existing conditions. However, this is misleading, since a careful look at their definition excludes chronic or congenital disorders from such coverage. Chronic illnesses are those that worsen over time and congenital disorders are issues one is born with. They exclude emergencies due to chronic illness because they will say that is not "acute" it is simply a worsening of your condition. There are only two policies we know of that offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. They are INF Premier and INF Elite plans.

Firstly, they define pre-existing conditions in the following way: A pre-existing condition is a condition for which the insured received treatment or took medication for in the previous 12 months before the start of the policy. If the medication dosage has not changed and is taken as a maintenance medication, this would NOT count as a flare up or treatment of the condition. In that case, very stable conditions that have no flare ups in the past 12 months are not even excluded as pre-existing conditions. Conditions that have had flare ups or doctor recommended treatment or change in medication, are still covered by the plans but with a higher deductible and a lower maximum.

INF Elite (also INF Elite 90) are comprehensive plans offering fairly complete coverage. INF Premier is a fixed plan. Find details on these plans here.

The above plans must be purchased for at least 90 days and can be quite pricey for seniors, but they offer the only real coverage for chronic conditions.

The other option, of course, is to take a plans with little ($1000) or no coverage for pre-existing conditions and take a risk that that condition will not flare up during the trip.

02. What does full coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions mean?

INF plans boast they offer "full" coverage for pre-existing conditions. This can be a little misleading. Firstly, any regular treatment or medication that is required by the condition is never covered. The main advantage to the INF Elite and INF Premier is that they cover sudden illness/injury regardless of whether it is pre-existing or not. The only difference is that a pre-existing condition will be covered with a higher deductible at at a lower maximum than any other "new" illness or injury. However, coverage is not limited to an emergency or life-threatening situation.

03. What does "acute onset of pre-existing conditions" mean?

The "Acute Onset of a Pre-Existing Condition" is a sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence of a pre-existing medical condition which occurs without any advance warning either in the form of physician recommendations or symptoms and requires immediate care (within 24 hours of first symptoms). A Pre-Existing Condition that is a chronic or congenital condition or that gradually becomes worse over time will not be considered acute onset.

The acute onset coverage benefit does not include coverage for known, scheduled, required, or expected medical care, drugs or treatment existent or necessary prior to the effective date of coverage. An example of this might be someone who has a food allergy or bee allergy and is unknowingly exposed to their allergen and requires immediate medical attention.

04. What is the difference between Full Pre-Existing & Acute Onset Insurance?

Acute onset of a pre-existing condition can be defined as the sudden & unexpected occurrence of a pre-existing condition which requires in-patient, emergency hospitalization within 24 hours of exhibiting first symptoms. The main difference between acute onset & full pre-existing is that with Full Pre-Existing coverage, is that one is covered for all pre-existing conditions and associated medical costs and this includes follow up visits, hospitalizations and doctor’s visits, etc. The acute onset coverage will only cover the in-patient hospitalization expense.

05. What are the limits of Full Pre-Existing plans under INF travel insurance?

Full Pre-existing means we will cover any issue regarding a pre-existing condition, however, if one is traveling to the United States solely for medical treatment, that will not be covered. INF plans do not cover any medical tourism related claims. Pre-existing conditions under the INF plans are covered with a higher deductible and a lower maximum than other illnesses or injuries. These are chosen or specified when you purchase you plan.

06. Do INF travel insurance plans really cover all pre-existing conditions?

Yes, the INF policies will cover any pre-existing issue that the traveler may have during their stay in the United States. This includes blood pressure, diabetes, kidney related issues and arthritis, all of which are covered by the INF Premier & INF Elite Plans.

07. Why are Full Pre-Existing plans more expensive than other visitors insurance plans?

The insurance company takes on an enormous risk by insuring individuals and including coverage for pre-existing conditions without any prior medical examination. Under the INF plans, you are paying more, but you are getting the full value for the money you pay given the very high cost of US healthcare. With the INF Premier Plan & INF Elite Plan, even though it is expensive, you can have the comfort of knowing that you are covered for any emergency or contingency. This peace of mind given the expensive US healthcare expense is what makes INF plans worth it despite being expensive.

08. What services are covered under visitors insurance full pre-existing coverage?

The list of covered services under Visitors insurance full pre-existing conditions coverage can be found on the American Visitor Insurance website of the INF Premier & INF Elite Plan pages. INF plans are open to green card holders

What is the best US visitors insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage?

The best US visitors insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage is listed here

  1. The INF Elite plans are designed for travelers who need coverage for full pre-existing medical conditions up to age 99 years. INF Elite plans are comprehensive plans available for people traveling to the US and provide flexible coverage. Minimum Purchase of 90 days is required on the plans.
  2. Safe Travels USA Comprehensive offers coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to 69 years the limit is up to the medical maximum purchased per period of coverage and for any coverage related to cardiac disease, coverage is limited to $25,000.
  3. Atlas America Insurance is a comprehensive visitor insurance for acute on set of pre-existing conditions that covers Non-US citizens and Non-US residents while visiting the US up to age 79 years.
    The plan provides acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions coverage..
  4. Patriot America plus is Comprehensive travel insurance covers acute on set of pre-existing conditions up to chosen maximum limit aged up to 70 years. This plan is available for Non US citizens travelling to the USA and US citizens and Non US citizens living abroad can buy this plan for visiting the US for short while. Plan is suitable for Green Card holders as long as they reside outside the US.
  5. Visitors Protect is Comprehensive visitor medical insurance offers pre-existing conditions up to age 99 years. Minimum Purchase of 90 days is required on the plan. It is an affordable plan for visitors visiting the US.
  6. Safe Travels USA is a cheap travel medical insurance plan that covers sudden, unexpected recurrence of a Pre-existing Condition for Non-US Citizens and Non-US Residents while visiting the USA up to 89 years.

Travel Insurance for Pre-existing - FAQ's

01. Which travel insurance covers Asthma?

Travel insurance is coverage only for unexpected medical expenses while you are on a trip away from home. Some companies offer coverage for what they call "acute onset" of a pre-existing condition (excluding chronic or congenital disorders). This would be a life or life-style threatening situation that cannot wait to be taken care of when the trip is over.

It must be "acute" meaning that it came on suddenly and needs to be taken care of quickly (defined as within 24 hours of symptom onset). A "pre-existing condition" does not necessarily have to have been previously diagnosed. If it is reasonable to assume that this condition started in the patient before the start date of the insurance, then it will be considered pre-existing to the policy. Note that the exclusion for chronic (conditions that worsen over time) and congenital (conditions a person is born with) limit greatly the application of this exception.

If Asthma is not considered chronic, then an emergency due to Asthma could be covered by a policy which covers at least "acute onset" of pre-existing conditions. If a person requires regular medication and/or doctor visits for their asthma, this will NOT be covered and will have to be paid by the insured completely out of pocket.

Note that in the US, the same medications can differ widely in costs depending on the pharmacy you use and some medications (generally generics) for common illnesses can be purchased for $40 per month at the Walmart pharmacy (although there may be long wait times). Also, some drug companies have special "coupons" available online for some of their drugs. There are often "discount cards" available at pharmacies and other stores for prescriptions that are free to use.

These are all resources your visitor can use to avoid paying full price for costly required medications should they run out while they are in the US. Other countries may not require a prescription and may not be as costly to obtain. Having a prescription with you, however, may be a good idea to ease getting the medication and show authorities you are allowed to have it (in the case of regulated substances which can vary country to country).

02. Do I need to declare Arthritis on travel insurance? Do I have to declare Rheumatoid Arthritis on travel insurance?

No. When you purchase any of our travel insurance plans, they offer guaranteed coverage with no medical questions. However, be aware that they all exclude pre-existing medical conditions. So, please take any medications you use regularly or for flare ups of your conditions since these will not be covered by travel insurance. As far as I know, Arthritis cannot lead to a life-threatening situation, so will be excluded from coverage by short-term travel policies.

If you are a frequent traveler and want major medical coverage in any country to which you travel, you can opt for global medical policies which will (after the first year, generally) cover all aspects of health costs.
You can Compare and buy Global health insurance policies. To apply for these policies, you will have to reveal your entire medical history and you are not guaranteed coverage.

The application must go through underwriting and you can be approved, rejected, or approved with exclusions. In any case, you can opt out of the policy 10 days from your approval for no cost to you or simply reject the exclusions they require on the policy. Note that these policies are best for people who want health insurance for a whole year, or better, longer.

Once you are approved on the plan, you are guaranteed coverage year after year and the price is determined by your age group, not your individual medical history. So, in the case of a global medical insurance application, you would have to declare your Arthritis on the application and you may or may not be covered for that illness by the policy they offer you.

03. Can you get travel insurance if you have a pre-existing condition?

Absolutely, yes! Travel insurance is meant to cover you in the unlikely event of a sudden illness or accident while you are on your trip. Even if you have a pre-existing condition that complicates treatment, that is not relevant to the coverage for an unexpected illness or injury.

Naturally, your pre-existing conditions themselves are excluded from coverage, so you should pack as much medication as you will comfortably need for your trip.

05. Is OsteoArthritis a pre-existing condition?

Yes. Any medical condition you have been diagnosed with or are being treated for will be considered pre-existing to a new travel policy. If you take regular medication for your condition, this will not be covered by the policy. However, should you, for example, have an accident and break a bone, this would be covered even if your condition may have made you a little more vulnerable to the break (unless you were being particularly reckless).

Accidents are generally always covered (car accidents are more complicated because if you were not at fault, the driver's insurance may cover part of your injuries) unless caused by intoxication. So, even if you have OsteoArthritis or some other pre-existing condition, you are still eligible for coverage by a travel insurance policy which will protect you from sudden illness or accident/injury while you are on your trip.

06. Which travel insurance covers heart attack?

This is a tough question. And, unfortunately, the answer depends on where you are traveling to and from.
For people that are traveling to the US from abroad:
As a broker, I am not a medical professional, so I can only tell you this from the insurance side of the question. Generally speaking, the most common cause for heart attack as I understand it is due to plaque build up in the person's arteries.

Since that build up happens slowly, over time, I think it's fair to say that it would NOT be covered by any travel health insurance. This is because travel health insurance excludes pre-existing conditions from any coverage (even emergency coverage if they are chronic or congenital). So the answer for the common cause of heart attacks is NO. So, foreigners run a risk (hopefully a small one) when traveling here.

Health insurance can still help with costs of accidents and other unexpected illnesses while on vacation. However, the answer is be different for people who are US residents traveling abroad. US residents can purchase trip cancellation plans and some of those waive the pre-existing condition exclusion IF you purchase them within a short time of your initial trip deposit (that is the earliest date you pay for any portion of your trip).

Check out trip cancellation plans. Notably, the GeoBlue student and travel plans also waive the pre-existing condition exclusion for people who had creditable prior insurance coverage, and these plans are only available to US residents with US domestic coverage. And, for travel plans for US residents going abroad, some, like the Safe Travels Outbound plans, will cover pre-existing conditions IF they have been stable in the last 6 months (meaning there have been no changes, episodes, or changes to medication in that time frame). You can Compare Safe Travels Outbound Insurance plans.

07. Is Arthritis covered by insurance?

No. Travel health insurance is meant to cover a sudden illness or accident, such as you get a stomach flu or you twist or break your ankle. Since Arthritis is not a life-threatening illness, it will not be covered by a short-term travel plan. Should you require regular medications or ointments, you should bring them or purchase ointments available in the visiting country for your condition.

Some countries may not require prescriptions to purchase medications. However, you should be cautious in using a new medication since there may be side-effects of concern. You may want to stick to what you know or consult with your own physician if you can.

08. Do travel insurances cover pre-existing conditions?

Yes, INF is one company that offers travel insurance for pre-existing conditions. Some other US travel insurance providers offer travel insurance for acute onset of an pre-existing ailment. The INF Elite and INF Premier travel plans provides greater flexibility for coverage of pre-existing conditions.

09. Which policy covers pre-existing diseases?

The following travel insurance plans cover acute onset of pre-existing conditions:

  1. Atlas travel plan from World trips
  2. Visitors Protect plan from IMG
  3. Patriot America Plus plan from IMG
  4. Travel Medical Choice plan from Seven Corners
  5. Travel Medical Basic plan from Seven Corners
  6. Safe Travels USA plan from Trawick International
  7. Safe Travels USA Comprehensive plan from Trawick International
  8. Safe Travels Elite plan from Trawick International
  9. INF Premier plan from INF
  10. INF Elite plan from INF
  11. INF Elite Plus plan from INF
  12. INF Elite 90 plan from INF
  13. VisitorSecure Insurance plan from World trips

10. What counts as a pre-existing condition for travel insurance?

A pre-existing condition is an existing condition/illness that exists at the time of application of the travel insurance, whether or not it has been treated and diagnosed or disclosed to the company, and any of or all of the subsequent complications or consequences related to or resulting from the ailment.

11. Which medical condition affect travel insurance?

Mental and Nervous disorders, maternity and newborn care, preventive care, chronic illness which cannot be cured, for instance, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, pre-existing conditions except for sudden recurrence of the pre-existing conditions are some of the medical conditions that the travel insurance completely excludes from coverage.

12. Is there a waiting period for pre-existing conditions?

Travel Insurance plans do not specify anything about the waiting period, but some plans have a look back period for coverage for pre-existing conditions. Most travel insurance plans only cover the acute onset of pre-existing conditions with INF being the exception which offers coverage for Pre-existing conditions up to the defined limit with their INF Premier and INF Elite travel insurance plans.

US Student medical insurance plans which are useful for international students coming to the US for higher studies however do provide a waiting period of 6 months to one year which varies from one plan to another.

13. Can I exclude a medical condition from travel insurance?

Travel Insurance plans provide coverage for unexpected sickness and injury. They provide benefits to cover emergency medical evacuation and repatriation. Apart from this, they provide coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions. If there is a medical condition that you do not need any coverage for, then yes, you can still purchase travel insurance for unexpected medical accidents which might result in a highly expensive claim expense.

14. What happens if you don't disclose pre-existing condition travel insurance?

US short term travel insurance plans are bought online by filling out the travel insurance application form provided by the insurance company. In the insurance company application form, there are no specific questions about the pre-existing condition the customer might have.

However, on American Visitor Insurance on the form to travel insurance quotes, we ask the customer to fill in the requirement details including if coverage for pre-existing conditions is needed. This helps us display the plans with the best coverage for pre-existing conditions or for acute onset of pre-existing conditions. The available travel insurance plans can also be filtered depending on the pre-existing condition coverage requirement.

This way it is easier for the customer to view the plans that provide good pre-existing condition coverage. In conclusion, the customer does not have a way to disclose what pre-existing condition they have in the application form. Again only INF insurance offers coverage for pre-existing conditions while other providers only offer acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage, and they will not be covered for the pre-existing condition unless the incident is reported by the doctor as a acute onset of a pre-existing condition.

15. What is the pre-existing medical conditions coverage under visitors travel insurance?

The following is the visitors insurance pre-existing conditions coverage buy different US travel insurance providers:
INF Plans. These plans offer full Pre-existing conditions up to the pre-existing conditions coverage limit in the policy:

  • INF Elite Insurance comprehensive plans offers full pre-existing conditions up to 99 years. There is a minimum purchase of 90 days required on this plan.
  • INF Premier Insurance is fixed or scheduled benefit plan which offers full pre-existing conditions up to 99 years. There is a minimum purchase of 90 days is required on this plan.
  • INF Premier Plus Insurance is fixed or scheduled benefit plan which offers full pre-existing conditions up to 65 years. There is a minimum purchase of 90 days is required on this plan.

International Medical Group - IMG offers both full Pre-existing and Acute onset of Pre-existing condition coverage :

  • Patriot America plus insurance covers acute on set of pre-existing conditions up to chosen maximum limit aged up to 70 years.
  • Visitors Protect is a comprehensive visitor medical insurance offers Pre-existing conditions up to age 99 years. A minimum purchase of 90 days is required on this plan.

WorldTrips offers acute onset of Pre-existing conditions:

  • Atlas America Insurance is a comprehensive visitor insurance that offers acute on set of pre-existing conditions aged up to age 79 years. (Excludes chronic condition or congenital condition)
  • Visitor Secure is a fixed benefit plan that offers acute on set of pre-existing conditions aged up to age 79 years. (Excludes chronic condition or congenital condition)

Trawick International offers Acute onset of Pre-existing conditions and sudden, unexpected recurrence of a Pre-existing Conditions:

  • Safe Travels USA travel medical insurance plan that covers sudden, unexpected recurrence of a Pre-existing Condition for Non-US Citizens and Non-US Residents while visiting the USA up to 89 years.
  • Safe Travels USA Comprehensive plan covers acute on set of pre-existing conditions up to 89 years. For persons under 70 covers medical treatment to policy maximum (cardiac-related treatment up to $25,000). For persons above 70 Acute Onset benefits is reduced to a maximum of $35,000 (cardiac-related treatment up to $15,000).

Seven Corners offers acute onset of Pre-existing conditions:

16. What is the Look back period for pre-existing conditions in travel insurance?

The Lookback period is the period before the travel insurance policy's effective date during which the pre-existing medical condition must be stable. The look back period varies depending on the policy.

17. Can I receive treatment or take medication for my pre-existing medical condition during the Look back period and still be eligible for coverage?

No, typically, you must not receive any treatment or medication for the pre-existing condition during the Lookback period to be eligible for coverage under the policy.

18. Is there an age limit to purchase visitors travel insurance for acute onset of pre-existing conditions?

Yes, there is typically an age limit for purchasing visitors travel insurance for acute onset of pre-existing conditions. The age limit varies depending on the policy.

  • inf plans offers Full Pre-existing conditions up to 99 years.
  • Seven Corners and WorldTrips offers Acute on set of Pre-existing up to 79 years.
  • Trawick-International plans offers Acute on set and sudden and unexpected pre-existing conditions up to 89 years.
  • IMG Visitor Protect offers Pre-existing conditions up to 99 years and Patriot America Plus offers Acute on set of Pre-existing up to 70 years.

19. Can a Green Card holder buy INF plans?

Yes, Green Card holders are eligible to enroll in the INF Plans as long as they maintain a residence outside the US.

20. Can I purchase INF travel insurance plans if I am already abroad?

Yes, people who are already in the US, can buy the INF plans, but they must get prior permission to apply for INF plans. To do this, they must submit the following forms:

  • Latest I -94
  • Health attestation form
  • Any prior health insurance information (if applicable)

The I-94 form is a government doc that can be filled out on line, they should choose “Get most Recent” on the website here: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/ and you should complete this “health attestation form”.

Note : Hop Travel Assist plans are not available if visitors are already in abroad

21. Can I purchase INF travel medical insurance if I already have pre-existing conditions?

Yes, you can purchase INF travel medical insurance even if you have pre-existing conditions. INF offers Premier, Elite, Elite Plus and Elite 90 plans that provide coverage for pre-existing conditions. However, coverage for pre-existing conditions may have some limitations and exclusions depending on the plan and your specific condition. It is important to carefully review the policy details and ensure that the coverage meets your specific needs.

22. What is INF travel medical insurance for pre-existing conditions?

INF travel medical insurance for pre-existing conditions is a type of travel insurance that provides coverage for individuals who have pre-existing medical conditions.

The INF insurance plans are designed to provide coverage for medical emergencies and unexpected medical events that may occur while traveling. The plans include benefits such as hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription medication, emergency medical evacuation, and more.

INF offers several insurance plans for travelers with pre-existing conditions, including the INF Premier, INF Elite, INF Elite Plus and INF Elite 90. These plans have varying levels of coverage and benefits, so it is important to review each plan carefully to determine which one best fits your specific needs.

23. What is the cost of INF insurance for visitors to the United States?

The cost of the INF visitors insurance will vary depending on the age of the traveler, the type of coverage and the length of your trip. Typically, visitor’s insurance policies cost can start even as low as $1 per day, but will be much higher for older travelers seeking coverage for pre-existing conditions that INF insurance offers.

24. What are the different types of INF insurance for visitors to the USA?

The INF Elite Travel Insurance plan is INF’s comprehensive insurance for visitors traveling to the United States. There are 3 types of INF insurance Elite plans and the price of these plans varies depending on the coverage they provide. The INF Elite plan, INF Elite 90 plan and INF Elite Plus plan.

25. What is the difference between the three INF Elite insurance plans?

The INF Elite plan is a comprehensive travel medical insurance plan that offers coverage for emergency medical and dental expenses, medical evacuation, trip interruption, and other benefits for visitors to the USA. The INF Elite plan, INF Elite 90 plan and INF Elite Plus plan are all part of the Elite Network of plans offered by INF.

The INF Elite 90 plan is designed for travellers who need coverage of eligible medical expenses up to 90%.
The INF Elite Plus plan provides coverage for pre-existing conditions as defined in the plan, as per policy limitations, exclusions and maximums, with no benefit waiting period.
INF Elite Plus also provides Preventive & maintenance care benefits, which can be used for a number of different covered medical services and offers coverage for TDAP, Flu, etc Vaccines.

26. How do I apply for INF insurance?

You can apply for INF insurance online through American Visitor Insurance. You can also call them at (877) 340 7910 to get more information on how to apply for INF insurance from licensed insurance agents.

27. What is the maximum length of coverage in INF insurance?

The maximum length of coverage for INF insurance is 364 days.

28. For which countries can I buy INF travel insurance?

INF insurance is available for international visitors to the United States, Canada or Mexico.

29. What are the requirements for applying for INF insurance?

The main requirements for applying for INF insurance is the travelers passport details and the travel dates. You can apply for INF insurance online on American Visitor Insurance or call (877) 340 7910 to get help in applying for INF insurance.

30. What is the eligibility to buy INF insurance?

To purchase INF insurance coverage, you must not be a citizen or permanent resident of the host country you are traveling to, ie the US, Mexico, or Canada. The coverage is available for non-U.S. residents and non-U.S. citizens traveling to the United States, Mexico or Canada between the ages of 14 days and 79 years. US green card holders can buy INF insurance if they have a residence outside the USA. The coverage duration is available from 5 days up to 364 days.

31. What is the minimum requirement to buy INF Elite and Premier plans?

There is a minimum purchase of 90 days required to buy these INF Elite plans.

32. What is the advantage of having the United Healthcare PPO in visitors insurance offered by INF ?

The INF plans use the United Healthcare Preferred Provider Organisation (PPO). This means that even if the pre-existing coverage limit is low, customers will still be able to access the full PPO discounts via United Health Care (UHC).

For example : A customer has to go to the Emergency Room (ER) for blood pressure and get a bill of $10,000 and the customer has the INF HOP UltraPlus plan. Although the UltraPlus covers $700 for pre-existing, the customer will get the PPO discount on the bill since it is covered. This in itself can translate to very significant savings such as an 80% discount + $700 paid out. This means your total coverage was $8,700 and out of pocket expense is only $1,300.

33. Why is travel insurance to USA so expensive?

USA Travel insurance cost depends on the following factors indicating why it is very expensive.

  1. US health care costs is significantly higher compared to most other nearby countries like Canada or Mexico, or even to other developed countries in Europe like the UK and France. The cost of healthcare services, hospital stays, and medication is exorbitant in the US. Given this, the US travel insurance companies adjust their premiums to reflect the higher healthcare costs in the USA.
  2. Some plans provide travel insurance for pre-existing conditions. This additional option which is very useful for older travelers and those with existing medical ailments significantly increase the overall cost of travel insurance.
  3. The United States also has a litigious culture, and the risk of healthcare related lawsuits is higher. US travel insurance providers need to account for potential legal expenses and settlements, leading to higher premiums in the travel insurance plans.
  4. The overall high standard of living in the US contributes to increased costs for various services, including healthcare. Insurance providers factor in the higher living expenses when determining premiums.
  5. The US has been facing higher inflation in the past few years. This has resulted in higher healthcare costs, and hence higher travel insurance premiums.
  6. US Travel insurance is a mature market, offering a range of travel health insurance options. The comprehensive travel insurance plans often includes coverage for emergency medical evacuations where extensive medical facilities may be required hence contributing to higher premiums. Comprehensive visitors insurance offer high coverage limits for medical expenses and other benefits such as for acute onset of pre-existing ailments, and all this contribute to higher premiums.

Despite travel insurance for the US being expensive, it is extremely risky to be uninsured in the United States. US insurance companies work with preferred provider (PPO) networks that are linked to the hospital and healthcare facilities. Patients who have health insurance and go to a PPO provider get billed significantly lower than those patients who do not have any insurance coverage. Simply having health insurance reduces hospital bills, along with this price reduction is the actual healthcare expenses which are paid for by the medical insurance plans.

buy visitor medical insurance

Different types of US Visitors insurance

Fixed Benefit travel insurance

A fixed benefit travel insurance plan is the cheapest travel insurance plan option. Fixed benefit travel insurance is cheap because it has a fixed limit of coverage for different medical benefits.

Fixed benefit travel insurance plans work well in case of small ailments but can be inadequate in the event of a serious medical ailment or hospitalisation.

Comprehensive travel insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance plans provide exhaustive coverage for health expenses up to the policy medical maximum amount. In contrast to fixed benefit plans there are no limits for each benefit.
Comprehensive insurance is more expensive when compared to fixed benefit plans but provides significantly better coverage in case of a medical emergency or hospitalisation.

NEED HELP?

Contact our customer service team, we are here to help you!

Steps to buy US pre-existing condition travel health insurance online

search  1: Finding the available US travel insurance plans

Complete the travel insurance quote request form by providing details of the traveller and insurance requirements.

balance  2: Compare the different travel insurance options

Compare the price and the benefits of the different travel insurance options to identify what fits your needs best.

attach_money  3: Buy the travel insurance that you like best

Purchase the plan that fits your needs and budget best by using a credit card and completing the online application.

description  4: Review insurance plan documents received by email

Review the travel insurance documents received by email closely for coverage details and relevant contact numbers

Student health insurance plan covering preventive care services

Dear Sir/Madam,

We are planning to travel to USA next year somewhere in the month of June, 2022. Policy is for myself and my spouse. We shall be visiting on B2 (visitor) Visa. My wife is having a problem regarding urinary continence and last two years she has to change catheter every 12 to 13 weeks i.e. after every three months.

I would like to know that Suprapubic catheter changing is covered in the policy? Since we are planning to stay for 5 to six months one catheter change in USA is inevitable hence this query. We will be in Austin in the Texas State of USA.

Regards,
Arun Mahale
Dear Arun,

There are no plans which specifically say that these conditions are covered. The travel insurance plans cover acute onset of an pre existing condition. Here is a plan that provides very good coverage for acute onset of pre existing condition.

Safe Travels USA Comprehensive

You can call the insurance company Trawick International for this plan. Their number is 888-301-9289

Please let us know if we can help you further in any way.


Regards,
Sincerely,
www.americanvisitorinsurance.com
(877) 340 7910

How do insurance companies determine pre-existing conditions for travel insurance?

Given the concern for pre-existing condition insurance plan for visitors, the common question among elderly travelers is how insurers determine what is considered a pre existing medical condition. No medical examination or doctor’s report is required to purchase short term health insurance.
So, how can they know what is pre-existing? The insurance company will rely on information gathered from the care provider, such as, medications taken, onset of symptoms, etc.

Best long term travel insurance for pre-existing conditions in USA

We clearly explain the policies that provide international health insurance for pre existing conditions coverage and all the terms and conditions that go with it. These insurance plans are ideal for visitors or parents visiting from India.

The best coverage of Pre-existing Conditions can be found with Major Medical plans which are under the Global health insurance section of our website. These plans are ideally suited to someone who wants long term insurance (12 months and above). For more clarifications please refer to the Pre-existing conditions travel insurance FAQ.

Precautions for travelers with pre-existing conditions

Those travelers with pre-existing conditions have to take extra care while in a foreign country to avoid possible medical emergencies. Visitors with medical history should always purchase a plan with pre-existing medical coverage, otherwise an emergency due to a pre-existing condition may NOT be covered by their insurance.

There are some plans with coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions** for all ages. You can compare International health insurance that covers Pre existing conditions and select the one which best suits your unique situation

International travel medical insurance for Seniors

Best health insurance for visitors to USA with pre-existing conditions

Please explain the difference between full coverage for pre-existing conditions and coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions by US visitor insurance.

Most of the US visitors insurance plans provide coverage for "Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions**". This basically provides coverage in the event of an existing medical ailment becoming life threatening and needing emergency medical care. This coverage will usually have exclusions for coverage of gradual or slow worsening of the existing ailment.

INF is one of the few companies which offers USA travel insurance plans for visitors to the US with full coverage for pre-existing ailments. INF offers best travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions with full Pre-Existing conditions coverage. This means INF visitors insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage insures any in-patient, out-patient, urgent care, specialist, doctor visits, anything related to pre-existing conditions.

The INF plans treat the pre-existing conditions like any new sicknesses. Prescription Medications are also covered when prescribed for a recent medical incident caused by a pre-existing condition. However, maintenance medications like Lipitor are not covered under this plan. This also means INF will not have exclusions that are typical in 'acute onset of pre-existing conditions**'. Some of the common pre-existing condition exclusions are:

  • A limit on the coverage for certain adverse medical events like a myocardial infraction, heart attack or other Cardiac events.
  • A limit on the number of occurrences within the insured period.
  • Explicit exclusions for certain ailments like Urinary Tract infections, Kidney infections or Bladder infections.

This also explains why 'Full pre-existing conditions coverage' is more expensive than coverage only for 'acute onset of pre-existing conditions'. However, please note the INF does not support medical tourism, where patients buy this insurance simply to get medical treatment for an existing ailment.

Why are INF Full travel insurance pre existing conditions plans more expensive than other travel insurance covering pre existing conditions?

The Full pre-existing conditions coverage plans treat any issue related to a pre-existing condition like a New Accident and Sickness, subject to the policy maximum and deductible limits. This explains why 'Full pre-existing conditions visitor insurance coverage' plans are more expensive than coverage only for 'acute onset of pre-existing conditions**'

Does INF travel insurance really offer coverage for all preexisting conditions?

In short the answer is Yes. INF insurance will cover any pre-existing conditions ranging from blood pressure, diabetes, to kidney complications and arthritis. All of these issues are all covered by the INF Premier, INF Elite, Elite Plus and INF Elite 90 best travel insurance for pre existing conditions

Compare the best travel insurance for full pre-existing conditions plans INF Premier & INF Elite best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions.

Note: **INF Premier, Elite, Elite Plus and Elite 90 plans have a fixed pre-existing condition maximum limit up to which the pre-existing condition would be covered.
Visitor insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage!

Compare Best Visitors insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage

Compare Pre-existing visitor medical insurance quotes »

Find out more about Pre-existing condition visitors insurance

Visitors insurance pre existing condition, Pre existing condition travel insurance - FAQ's

01. Does travel insurance cover covid19 illness?

There are some US travel insurance plans for travel that cover Covid. International travelers can compare best travel insurance plans and buy it online. These travel insurance plans are available for visitors to the US, US citizens and US residents traveling abroad as well as non US travelers traveling outside their home country.

02. What is a pre-existing condition for travel health insurance?

Simply put, a pre-existing condition is a disease or condition a person is already diagnosed with, being treated for, or has, with reasonable certainty before the start of the insurance policy.
Companies use a "look back" period to determine if a condition will be considered pre-existing or not. Click here to Read more>>.

03. Are there any medical tests required to buy pre existing visitor insurance?

No, there are no medical tests required for purchasing visitor travel insurance to usa with pre existing conditions.

04. Which are the USA travel health insurance that cover Pre - Existing conditions?

The short term visitor insurance plans usually do not cover pre-existing medical conditions, however some plans do provide limited coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions**. You can compare the insurance plans that offer pre-existing condition coverage using our compare tool option.

05. Why should I get visitor medical insurance with coverage for pre-existing medical conditions?

Many people, although healthy and able to travel, particularly older travelers take medications for certain medical conditions. While these conditions can be called "normal" for a person of their age, not all people have these conditions and they will be classified as "pre-existing" by an insurance company. If you do NOT have coverage for it, then the policy will pay $0 for any incident of it, emergency or not.

The coverage you can get is limited to "acute onset" of a pre-existing condition which can cover an unexpected life-threatening emergency of the condition which would then give you as complete coverage as you could get for your travels or visitor. This is why we offer some options with this coverage for nearly all ages of travelers. For more information, go here

06. Can you get travel insurance with a pre existing condition coverage?

Travel insurance plans usually cover unexpected or sudden sickness or injuries. Pre-existing condition is a condition a person has been diagnosed with, is being treated for, or has with reasonable medical certainty before the start of the plan". So a person does not need to know they have the condition for it to be considered pre-existing (a diagnosis is not required).

Some international travel insurance plans offer coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions. Acute onset of pre-existing conditions means sudden, unexpected emergency due to a pre-existing condition that can be dangerous to life and the traveler cannot wait to get treatment in the home country but to receive treatment immediately.

It should be noted that for acute onset coverage, treatment must be sought within the defined time period for the plan and chronic and congenital conditions may not be covered.

07. Does US travel insurances cover pre-existing conditions? Can I get international health insurance with a pre-existing condition?

While most US travelers insurance plan do not cover pre-existing conditions, however some US travel insurance plans cover acute onset of pre-existing conditions. INF insurance is the one provider who offers travel insurance with coverage for pre-existing conditions.

08. Is high blood pressure considered a pre-existing condition for travel insurance?

Most travel insurance plans will consider blood pressure as a pre-existing condition for travel insurance. However the INF insurance offer travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions ranging including Blood pressure. The INF Premier & INF Elite travel insurance for preexisting conditions are two INF plans with coverage for blood pressure.

09. Which medical condition affect travel insurance?

Mental and Nervous disorders, maternity and new born care, preventive care, chronic illness which cannot be cured, for instance, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, pre-existing conditions except for sudden recurrence of the pre-existing conditions are some of the medical conditions that the travel insurance completely excludes from coverage.

10. What happens if you don't disclose pre-existing condition travel insurance?

US short term travel insurance plans are bought online by filling out the travel insurance application form provided by the insurance company. In the insurance company application form, there are no specific questions about the pre-existing condition the customer might have.

However, on American Visitor Insurance on the form to travel insurance quotes, we ask the customer to fill in the requirement details including if coverage for pre-existing conditions is needed. This helps us display the plans with the best coverage for pre-existing conditions or for acute onset of pre-existing conditions. The available travel insurance plans can also be filtered depending on the pre-existing condition coverage requirement. This way it is easier for the customer to view the plans that provide good pre-existing condition coverage. In conclusion, the customer does not have a way to disclose what pre-existing condition they have in the application form. Again only INF insurance offers coverage for pre-existing conditions while other providers only offer acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage, and they will not be covered for the pre-existing condition unless the incident is reported by the doctor as a acute onset of a pre-existing condition.

11. Why American visitor insurance?

  • Wide range of temporary US travel insurance options
  • Travel insurance with Covid19 and quarantine coverage
  • Several new US immigrant insurance plans available
  • Popular Schengen visa insurance with required visa letter
  • Travel health insurance and trip cancellation insurance options
  • Affordable international student health insurance plans
  • Resourceful user friendly compare travel insurance tool
  • Customer support with support for claims settled in the USA
  • Fixed benefit and comprehensive international travel insurance plans
  • 24/7 licensed US travel insurance agent support
  • Guaranteed cheapest travel medical insurance price
  • Travel health insurance customer support during crisis
  • Relevant US travel insurance blogs, articles and FAQ's
  • Travel insurance reviews to help decide on plans
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Hi,

I am looking for advice on how to get 3 months of medical insurance for my son while he works in the USA for Americamp. The insurance they provide does not cover an acute onset of a medical condition. He has type 1 diabetes. He would not need prescriptions or any ordinary care as he will be bringing insulin etc with him but I am concerned that if there was to be an incident related to his condition he would not be covered. Please get back to me with any suggestions.

Thanks
Tania
Dear Tania,

Hi! You can get insurance to cover what is called "acute onset" of a pre-existing condition. This means that if you have some unexpected emergency due to your pre-existing condition then it should be covered (there are some medical conditions that are excluded from coverage). It depends on the age as to which policies and for how much they will cover you. You can use this link to search suitable plan options for you:

Pre-existing coverage

Please note that regular medication, treatment, or doctor visits due to a pre-existing condition will not be covered and, of course, the condition must be stable before you travel.
I hope we can find something for your situation. If you want a more specific quote and option, tell us the age as well as your dates of travel and we can make a suggestion for you.


Regards,
www.americanvisitorinsurance.com
(877) 340 7910

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US travel insurance for Pre-existing conditions