Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
02 December 2015 09:16
Doctors can help ensure patients get the travel insurance cover they need
A new guide has been drawn up to help healthcare professionals make sure their patients have the appropriate travel insurance when they head off abroad on holiday.
The advice has been compiled by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) and the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC).
It pinpoints the detailed information insurance companies need most when they receive a request to provide travellers with cover that may have to foot the cost of treatment abroad or repatriation in the event of a serious illness or injury.
And it asks doctors to consider a range of issues when they are advising patients who are planning to travel abroad or go on an overseas holiday.
If the patient is undergoing or waiting for any medical tests or investigations, doctors are urged to think about whether that has any implications for their travel plans.
GPs should ensure those with a pre-existing medical condition, meanwhile, are au fait with the correct medical terminology, aware of potential symptoms and fully understand their medication.
Doctors are asked to make sure their patients are up to date with any Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice about the country they are visiting, and have had any required vaccinations or anti-malarial medication.
Medical practitioners are also urged to use their patient's medical history, any information about medication and treatment and details about their destination and what they plan to do there to gauge whether it is advisable for them to travel.
As well as helping insurance providers, the guidance aims to help holidaymakers provide the information required to ensure they get suitable travel insurance cover.
NaTHNaC director Dr Dipti Patel says the guidance will provide both healthcare professionals and holidaymakers with vital information, helping vulnerable travellers, in particular, get the protection they need.
The ABI's policy adviser for general insurance, Ross Penstone-Smith, says the advice will help ensure people accurately disclose any medical conditions to their insurance provider.
People travelling in Europe could also obtain and take a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
17 July 2019
Want to experience a different side of Portugal? Check out one of these great destinations that lie a step or two away from the standard tourist trail...
[more...]
08 July 2019
Want to taste the real France? Experience the best French food and drink at one of these excellent foodie festivals. Perfect for food and wine lovers everywhere!
Tired of the same old travel options? Explore the best travel experiences at one of these weird and wacky festivals from around the world.
Heading to the beach? Pack everything you need for the whole family by following this simple checklist.
05 July 2019
Heading off for some sun this summer? Protect your family's skin with these top tips to stay safe in the sun and prevent sunburn and lasting skin damage.
28 June 2019
Tired of paying over the odds for your family's summer holiday? Keep your costs down with our guide on how to get away for less...
Want to see Europe's greatest sport stars go head-to-head? Then head to Minsk! The capital of Belarus hosts this year's European Games – here's everything you need to know before travelling.
Heading to the European Games? Get more from your trip to Minsk by visiting some of these must-see attractions in the capital of Belarus.
Heading to the Austrian Grand Prix this summer? Get more out of your trip to Spielberg's iconic Red Bull Ring circuit with our guide to the local area.
07 June 2019
Thinking about going camping in France this summer but don't know where to try? Here's our quick guide to the best places to camp, whatever you're looking for.
Get hitched without a hitch! Here are our top tips on how to choose your perfect wedding location abroad, covering everything from food to legalities.