Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | 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).
16 April 2019
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
[more...]
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.
Experience Seville's intoxicating Feria de Abril and discover Andalucía's most famous festival! Here's your ultimate guide to La Feria.
01 April 2019
Songkran is Thailand's famous New Year's festival - and the world's biggest water fight. Here's everything you need to know before you plan your trip.
Travelling to Thailand? Learn the important local traditions and cultures to ensure you act respectfully in 'The land of a thousand smiles.'
Travelling overseas with young children? Make going through the airport easy and stress-free by following these top tips for surviving the airport with kids when flying.
25 March 2019
Discover the best places to learn to scuba dive! Check out our list of top dive locations around the world that are perfect for scuba diving beginners.
Looking for some late-season skiing? Here are some of the best places for spring skiing in Europe where you can enjoy reliable snow cover.
19 March 2019
Looking for adventure? Create your perfect Scandinavian weekend with these alternative city break ideas.
Lower your blood pressure with these fresh, healthy foods you can add to your diet.
02 March 2019
A Flybe flight was forced to abort take-off due to the cabin filling with "smoke" while it was accelerating along the runway at Exeter Airport.
01 March 2019
Holidaymakers will soon be able to take advantage of the first direct flight from London to Scotland's Western Isles after Loganair announced three new routes.