Best snowbird travel insurance for pre-existing conditions

For snowbirds planning an extended stay in a warm destination, ensuring proper health coverage is essential, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions. Finding the right travel insurance plan that covers pre-existing conditions can be challenging, but it is crucial to safeguard your well-being during your winter getaway.

So, what is a pre-existing condition?

A pre-existing condition refers to any medical condition or illness that a person has before the effective date of their travel insurance coverage. These conditions can vary widely and may include chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, asthma, hypertension, cardiac illnesses, etc.

On the other hand, acute onset of a pre-existing condition refers to a sudden and unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition during the trip. It is crucial to understand that not all travel insurance plans cover pre-existing conditions, but some plans may provide coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions.

Why choose an insurance plan with pre-existing coverage?

Traveling can be unpredictable, and having a pre-existing condition adds an extra layer of concern. By choosing a plan with pre-existing conditions coverage, you can travel comfortably, knowing that you have financial protection in case of any medical emergencies or exacerbations of your known health condition.

Travel insurance plans that offer coverage for the “acute onset” of pre-existing conditions mean the benefits kick in if your pre-existing condition suddenly and unexpectedly worsens during your trip, causing an acute medical emergency within 24 hours. This can be particularly crucial for seniors and individuals with stable pre-existing conditions.

Here are the top 5 snowbird travel insurance plans with pre-existing coverage:

1. Patriot America Plus

Patriot America Plus is a comprehensive plan from the International Medical Group (IMG) that offers excellent medical coverage for non-chronic acute onset of pre-existing conditions. This plan is ideal for snowbirds traveling to the US for a temporary period. For individuals below 70 years of age, Patriot America Plus covers the acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions up to the policy maximum. This plan is particularly beneficial for senior snowbirds with potential health concerns, as it ensures they have access to necessary medical treatment during their stay in the US.

2. Atlas America

Another top-rated plan from World Trips is Atlas America, which is a popular choice among snowbirds. Like Patriot America Plus, this policy provides coverage for non-chronic acute onset of pre-existing conditions for individuals below 80 years of age. This plan also includes up to a $ 25,000-lifetime maximum for emergency medical evacuation. This is a versatile plan that caters to various travel needs. Whether you are visiting family, traveling for leisure, or on a business trip, this plan ensures that you are protected from unexpected medical expenses while traveling and includes  some non-chronic pre-existing conditions coverage for an acute onset during your stay in the US.

3. Safe Travels USA Comprehensive

Offered by Trawick International, Safe Travels USA Comprehensive is a robust visitor insurance plan that also provides coverage for one episode for acute onset of pre-existing conditions. For ages up to and including 69, the limit for an acute onset of pre-existing conditions is up to the medical policy maximum purchased per policy period except for any coverage related to cardiac conditions or stroke, which will be limited to $25,000. Upon attaining age 70 Acute Onset of Pre-existing Condition benefits are not available.

4. Visitors Care

Visitors Care, provided by IMG, is a budget-friendly option for travelers looking for coverage for pre-existing conditions. While it is a fixed-benefit plan, it still covers the acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions with sub-limits. It offers $25,000 max per coverage period (Lite plan), $50,000 max per coverage period (Plus plan), and $100,000 max per coverage period (Platinum plan).

Each category of plan offers $25,000 max per period coverage for emergency medical evacuation that arises or results directly/indirectly from a covered acute onset of a pre-existing condition. This plan is an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable option while ensuring they have access to medical assistance in case of sudden and unexpected recurrence of non-chronic pre-existing conditions.

5. Safe Travels Elite

Safe Travels Elite is a fixed benefit plan that offers one episode of acute onset of pre-existing coverage per policy period subject to sub-limits. It offers coverage up to the policy maximum with coverage related to cardiac conditions limited to $25,000 for plans Economy, Basic, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. For plans like Diamond and Diamond Plus (available for ages 70 years and above), the coverage is up to $25,000 for ages between 70 and 79 and $15,000 for ages 80 and above. Coverage related to cardiac conditions is limited to $15,000.

Conclusion

Having pre-existing conditions should not deter snowbirds from enjoying their winter escape. With the right travel insurance plan covering the acute onset of pre-existing conditions, you can travel with confidence and receive the necessary medical care if needed. Always review the policy details, limitations, and exclusions to ensure the chosen plan aligns with your specific health needs and travel requirements. Remember to consult with insurance experts and compare different plans to find the one that suits your needs best.

Are you ready to buy a plan? Call Visitor Guard®.