Travel Insurance

[Dawnsunny]

Hi

My bank won’t insure me for my pre conditions

I have Bronchiectasis, hyperthyroidism asthma to name but a few.

Has anyone had the same problem and if so have you been able to find a company that will without it being £300 which was my last quote!

[winter2013]

Last year I got one , I think about £240 for my husband ( who has no conditions) and me ( Bronchiectasis, Menderes, asthma) with .... Insure and go” .... if that’s any help?

😉 good luck x

[Dawnsunny in reply to winter2013]

It’s so expensive Winter2013! Only wanted to go for 4 days too.

Just had a quote for about the same price online with the post office.

😩x

[winter2013 in reply to Dawnsunny]

Oh dear... sorry!! Should have also said that covered us both for the whole year... x

[Dawnsunny in reply to winter2013]

Really?? That was just me for 1 x 4 day trip! 😱

[winter2013 in reply to Dawnsunny]

Yes. As are both retired now we go away in cheap caravan holidays so is worth it. X

[Dawnsunny in reply to winter2013]

Which company was it, maybe I could ask for a quote x

[winter2013 in reply to Dawnsunny]

It just said “ insure and go.” So sorry Dawn and really hope you can find a company that is cheaper for your 4 day trip. Know you have a lot to cope with at moment! Here’s wishing wishing ..... xx

[Dawnsunny in reply to winter2013]

Thank you I’ll try that.

Yes I’ve done nothing but cry for days, this was something my husband wanted to do to try and take my mind of things and then we find insurance is difficult!

Thank you you are so kind x

[winter2013 in reply to Dawnsunny]

Ah Dawn I do do understand!! Have cried lots this last 4 years since diagnosis 4 years ago ... along with some added ailments as well. Sounds like you both really deserve a break.

My husband is trying to find the companies “ insure and go” use.

We all have to try and be kind to ourselves and give ourselves some love. Not easy especially as it’s not something people have heard of and always understand. They think you are better often and don’t understand it’s a permanent chronic condition.

Just remember you’re not the only one shedding tears. To make you smile ... in a strange way!!.... I treated myself to some posh big hankies for 😢! Felt I deserved it with all the tears I shed. Couldn’t find any nice ladies big ones but saw some in a lovely shop called Seasalt!

Will reply if we can find anything out re insurance companies xxx

[Dawnsunny in reply to winter2013]

Thank you, you are so kind. It’s such a hard time for me, do you not cry as much now or are you still there?

I have Pseudomonas too 😢 it’s the unknown.

I’ve just tried InsureandGo it came up £222 before crashing so didn’t put all ailments in there. The cost is like taking a third person!

May have to stay here in England 😞

[winter2013 in reply to Dawnsunny]

Sorry Dawn we can’t find which companies they use.

I often cry ... about other issues as well as now have ME/ CFS , maybe as a result of the infections... who knows? Also bowel/ gut problems related to IBS but abit more complicated. That’s ongoing re discomfort, pains , don’t know where I’m at with diet. Again have reflux, which is worse with infections , and led to the medication for that .. indirectly it may have been making IBS worse.

Then I am working hard to accept, appreciate the good things I have, not pressurise myself !

Seems like a full time job..... but!! ending on a positive note. I know the whole business has made me grow so much as a person and know myself better than ever. Sorry if that sounds abit .. well .. just so/ perfect!!

As with everything I guess it’s time and adjusting. Not something you can do overnight though.

Big hug and if you do stay in UK, still think it’s the best country .. even though know it’s nice to go abroad. You do appreciate UK when you return though xxx

[cofdrop-UK]

I enquired when I was going to go to Milan for a few days last year. My insurance company who I have my contents with wouldn’t insure me at all. The lowest quote I could get was £200. Then I was informed that as ERS were paying for it and I was going for them I would be insured and for my pre existing conditions. I couldn’t go in the end in any event because of the GI stuff.

It’s so annoying as we are less likely to go to a doctors than the normally fit and well who gets an infection, because we have our own nebs and abs and just get on with it.

I hope you find something which suits your pocket, so you can enjoy a lovely break.

Lov cx

[Dawnsunny in reply to cofdrop-UK]

Thank you cofdrop it’s so frustrating.

Wonder if BLF can suggest one?

[Carnival567]

We use All Clear, but I am afraid that aging and illness are not a good combination. If you find a good insurance quote perhaps you could let us all know! It comes up so often .

[Sandy-]

Have you tried any price comparison sites like GoCompare, ComparetheMarket, Confused.com, or Moneysupermarket?

These have usually worked for me. I do hope you can find something soon.

Good luck and best wishes.

Sandy xx

[Dawnsunny in reply to Sandy-]

I did, and the post office quote was the cheapest at £240.

Husband says our bank will cover everything apart from existing conditions.

Do you know If you have a EHIC card does that cover hosp/dr care whilst abroad?? X

[Liberty43 in reply to Dawnsunny]

Your EHIC card covers you in eu countries but only if you use state hospitals, which to my mind is ok. You can try a company called ehic plus which covers extras like repatriation. Again not to use private hospitals. I have many of the same problems as you and l find them reasonable. I usually pay a little extra for outpatient visits. Depends where you are going. Try them.

[Blae1 in reply to Liberty43]

I tried EHIC plus for my 83 year old mother, who has recently been diagnosed with Bronchiestasis. After putting in all her details and medical problem, they then said they couldn't cover her. I have tried several companies and quotes ranged from £400.00 to £900.00. i can only presume that her age, as well as medical issues, is against her.

[Liberty43 in reply to Blae1]

I think it depends on type of health problem. For me l have bronchiectasis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and a heart arrhythmia. I am almost 75 so who knows next time. If l am refused then l will just go on EHIC. I am able to self manage all problems barring heart attack. Sorry you cannot travel with your mum. Not much fun getting older is it?

[Dawnsunny in reply to Blae1]

Sorry to hear that Blae1, it’s just so unfair x

[Sandy-]

Yes I still have a European card, and fortunately have not had to use it.

Just googled and found allcleartravel.co.uk and staysure.co.uk, although you may have already checked these out. x

[Dawnsunny in reply to Sandy-]

Thank you will try quotes from them x

[HuwieHex]

Your EHIC will cover you in the EU/EAA until March 2019 (or perhaps later than that) and you would get the same Health cover as do residents of the Country you will visit. But an EHIC will NOT cover expenses which are not directly related to treatment. For example: additional expenses if you are taken ill and need to prolong your stay in a hotel. Or repatriation if that is necessary. And, although there are many Insurance Brokers in the UK, they all deal with one of 4 Companies who are the actual travel Insurers. From what you say above it seems that none of those Companies are prepared to offer you Insurance at a premium which you can afford. I am sure that this is disappointing and I do sympathise.

[Dawnsunny in reply to HuwieHex]

Very informative HuwieHex, I understand now.

Do others with our conditions tend to stay at home for holidays

or pay these high premiums?

X

[Keep-positive in reply to Dawnsunny]

I personally feel getting away to nice warm weather and escaping the UK's cold, damp winter months is beneficial . I was born with bronchiectasis "many" years ago and in the winter months am usually very ill ( and feel like a recluse 🙈 ) .

Anytime I have travelled I have used Compare the Market site and I always take plenty antibiotics and steroids with me.

Really hope you get a reasonable priced insurance Dawnsunny and you can get away for your much needed break.

Take care

Ann xx

[Dawnsunny in reply to Keep-positive]

Thank you Ann, on count down to it now, we haven’t been away on our own, ever, so I am looking soooo forward to this x

[Keep-positive in reply to Dawnsunny]

Have a lovely well deserved time 🌞🍹 xx

[Dawnsunny in reply to Keep-positive]

Thank you x

[HuwieHex]

It really depends on where you want to go, and what level of risk you are prepared to take.

For myself, I have family in California but had to give up travelling there about 7 years ago when premiums became really prohibitively expensive. (I have IPF). It would have become a problem except that I know that nowadays I am unable to travel at all, and I have come to terms with that.

But if you want a trip to a European Country which is not too far distant then perhaps the EHIC is all that you need. Particularly if you are able to travel by train! (France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Germany and others).

To which Country do you wish to travel?

If you think that I can assist with advice, then please do PM me.

[Dawnsunny in reply to HuwieHex]

Hi

We are only thinking of Spain.

Sorry what’s IPF?

I’m going to be starting on nebulised antibiotics soon so may be on them when we go away.

This all so sad as we had plans to travel once we retire , can’t even get insurance for 4 days so looks like this is all doomed now 😩

[SecondLife in reply to Dawnsunny]

if you are going to Spain why not have a look at EHIC Plus, it is an extension to your EHIC card, you have to be over a certain age but we bought an annual policy for less than what you are being quote for one trip

[Dawnsunny in reply to SecondLife]

Thank you for that, I’ll pass this onto my husband to look into

[Pavis]

I, am 82 have IPF and going to Greece in September for a week my insurance is 178 pounds with Insurewith co.UK you could give them a go

[Dawnsunny in reply to Pavis]

Thank you Paris, my husband is going to do the ringing round today whilst I’m at work, keeping fingers crossed 🤞

[normannippy]

You could try Age Concern. I have found them to be cheaper than most. It is so annoying though. I do sympathise.

[Dawnsunny in reply to normannippy]

Thank you, I’ll add this to our list for today 😊

[kimmie52]

Hi I too have bronchiectasis and hyperthyroidism and fibromyalgia .how long have you had bronchiectasis and hyperthyroidism and how does it affect you if you don't mind me asking.

[Dawnsunny in reply to kimmie52]

Hi Kimmie52

I was diagnosed with Bronchiectasis in August I think last year. I’ve had thyroid probs a lot longer. I’m only on the lowest tab 50mg of Thyroxine and it’s been stable for sometime.

I’m struggling more with Bronchiectasis. I have Pseudomonas bug and so far have had 6week eradication treatment but that didn’t work so consultant is looking at putting me on nebulised antibiotics now. I lost 3 and half stone and go to the gym and walk evenings to try and help with this illness. So far I’ve been ok.

But I’ve been of a really low mood with the fear of what my future holds.

Not read good things about the particular bug I have. This holiday is to try and cheer me up.

My husband thinks he’s got the insurance down to £85. Just hoping I’m well enough to travel by the time we go!

Nothing is straight forward anymore 😞x

How are you ?

[kimmie52 in reply to Dawnsunny]

Thank you for replying I too have this bug but have been come reactive to certain antibioticssi it's difficult my fibromyalgia is aweful combined with the thyroid the fatigue has crippled my life I eat constantly because my brain tells my body it needs energy I now spend more and more time just trying to be normal and fighting fatigue that is so debilitating and the pain from the fibromyalgia is just undiscribable the thyroid has a mind of it's own and I believe is part of the problem.regards kim

[cinnammon]

Just paid £136 for 9 days with Fish. My husband has IPF, Heart Problems and skin cancer I have problems too

[Dawnsunny in reply to cinnammon]

That’s a great quote. I hope you have a lovely holiday x

[lucy2015]

If you call FISH Insurance it is through BLF I was fully covered for all pre conditions and was only £79 for both myself and my daughter going to Spain.

I am oxygen dependent have acute asthma, chronic lung damage due to being in a coma when I had swine flu, osteoporosis, wheelchair dependent, among other health issues. They are very helpful and I will be using them again this year. I was quoted £500 from other insurance companies, luckily found out about this company from my O.T. Please let me know how you get on.

Linda x

[Blae1 in reply to lucy2015]

Thank you for this information. I am going to try them, as quotes I have had range from £400.00 - £900.00 for two weeks in Spain

[Dawnsunny in reply to Blae1]

Def glad this post it helping others too xx

[Dawnsunny in reply to lucy2015]

Hi Linda that’s great to know, and def worth a try. My husband has just had a quote for £85, he’s on his way home from work now so will have to wait for more details. Buts that’s so much better than the £240 we started with xx

[lucy2015 in reply to Dawnsunny]

Hi that’s great news, glad I could help have a great holiday x

[UHelga]

Hi my husband and I are also trying to organise a break and last week I searched through all the older threads here for recommendations. Here’s a list of links I thought I could try.

I noticed that several people mentioned they’d used Fish and apparently allclear and insurancewith seemed to be good for people who had been refused by other companies:

allcleartravel.co.uk/

insurancewith.co.uk

People also mentioned the comparison site medicaltravelcompared.co.uk

And someone had a good experience with travelinsurance4medical.co.uk/

Finally, here is one my husband found and the online calculator came up with a reasonable quote: payingtoomuch.com/insurance

Hope this helps and good luck Dawnsunny. X

[Dawnsunny in reply to UHelga]

Thank you UHelga, some great info there!

I’m sure this will help so many people xxx

[Maximonkey]

Hi Dawn, I used Able2travel until I was 70, after that I had to switch. The premiums for my husband and I for annual insurance was around £390, however, I do have multiple problems and my husband has usual high blood pressure, high cholesterol etc. Try them you could always declare but not have cover on less problematic medical problems. Good luck Maximonkey

[Dawnsunny in reply to Maximonkey]

Thank you Maximonkey xx

[Watfordgirl]

Hello Dawnsunny,

you could try Bought by Many, mentioned in the Guardian last weekend. Good website. I didn’t use them because I only wanted cancellation cover for UK. They insure preexisting conditions without medical screening, and cover Europe.

Good luck. Sue

[Dawnsunny in reply to Watfordgirl]

Thank you Sue xx

[Ladydevon]

Hi I got mine from saga and it was not too expensive

[Dawnsunny in reply to Ladydevon]

Thank you xx

[LolaEs]

After being quoted almost 70 pounds for a single trip, I looked on Moneysupermarket, went on a comparison and was insured by Go Getting Insurance for 22 pounds. I am 42 and have mild asthma and bronchiectasis but I hope you find something cheaper.

[Dawnsunny]

Wow, best quote yet! Thank you x

[Dubba61]

HI I have COPD including Asthma and damage from having Chicken Pox Pneumonia in my 40,s. I get reasonably priced Travel insurance from "Puffin insurance". The company was recommended on Martins Money Tips. you can find them on-line. they specialize in Disability. good Luck. Shame to never go on Holidays because of illness. its the thought of days in the Sun that gets me through these long Winters

[Dawnsunny in reply to Dubba61]

Aw thank you for your reply. We are all sorted now for our trip in April, just got to hope I’m well 🤞, but will keep this in mind for our next trip 😊

[Dubba61 in reply to Dawnsunny]

That's good. Enjoy!