Important Considerations for Chronically Ill Individuals Traveling Abroad

If you are going on a trip with a chronic illness, you should consult a doctor beforehand. Otherwise it can get extremely expensive.

Munich – International travel health insurance is interesting for most travellers. In the event of problems abroad, this covers possible costs for medication or treatment. This is particularly recommended for chronic diseases.

Chronically ill people should have their fitness to travel certified

According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), chronic diseases are among the most common and economically significant health problems. Cardiovascular diseases, cancer and chronic lung diseases in particular are widespread and affect the quality of life. This can be a problem not only at home, but also on vacation. If treatment is due while travelling, it can be extremely expensive.

The Association of the Insured (BDV) therefore advises having a travel clearance certificate issued. Without this, it can happen that the travel health insurance company refuses to pay for treatment. According to the BDV, insurance should be taken out by every traveller, but it is particularly important for chronically ill people. The fitness to travel certificate issued by the doctor must clearly state which pre-existing conditions exist and that no treatment is expected during the trip. Many people without chronic illnesses also often fell ill abroad.

Insurance can refuse to pay for treatment abroad

As the BDV states, some insurance companies even have a form for chronically ill customers on their website. It is therefore also advisable to call your own insurer before you travel. There you can tell which documents are required and have to be filled out. In retrospect, it can happen that the insurance company gets in the way when it comes to paying for treatment. There are small pitfalls built into many insurance contracts. The insurance often only takes effect if it is a matter of “worsening of an existing illness”.

What exactly is meant by a deterioration is often not explained in more detail there. The insurance only pays if policyholders suffer from “acute, unforeseen flare-ups” during the trip. Treatments that were foreseeable before the trip or possible return transport are then not insured. To be on the safe side, chronically ill people should check with their insurance company and then with the treating doctor which certificates are required. If the doctor advises against a trip, the plans should at least be reconsidered. (rd with dpa)