Top 3 US travel insurance that covers pre-existing medical conditions 

Traveling to the US sounds thrilling, but it may not be relaxing if you travel with a pre-existing medical condition. However, none of the medical conditions should stop any traveler from vacationing in the US, especially when buying visitor insurance with some coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions is available. 

Pre-existing conditions are defined as issues or ailments that exist at the time of application.  Some include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, asthma, pneumonia, blood pressure,  arthritis, and more. Sometimes, these conditions can become severe during a trip and may need medical attention. Unfortunately, rushing to an emergency room means spending a few thousand dollars on getting a diagnosis done, followed by a treatment. 

Visitor insurance with pre-existing conditions acts as a savior during crucial times to cover the acute onset of the condition. The plans do not cover pre-existing medical illnesses; rather, they cover only the acute onset of pre-existing conditions. The acute onset of the pre-existing condition refers to that condition that occurs suddenly without any symptoms and needs immediate medical attention. 

Take two scenarios as examples: 

• Suppose a visitor takes medicines for diabetes and wants to check his blood sugar, either because the visitor wants to have a check as a precautionary practice or if he feels that the blood sugar levels are elevated.  The health insurance plan will not cover this check-up as the condition is not an acute onset of a pre-existing condition. Suppose a visitor has asthma and is traveling and everything is fine but suddenly gets a sudden asthma attack during the trip without any warnings or symptoms and needs to be treated within 24 hours of the first symptom. The visitor insurance plan can cover such situations as it is an acute of a pre-existing condition. 

However, each plan has its definitions of pre-existing conditions and acute onset of pre-existing conditions. So, check the brochure before buying. Here are the top 3 travel insurance plans that one can consider: 

1. Safe Travels USA Comprehensive 

Safe Travels USA Comprehensive covers one acute episode per pre-existing condition covered up to policy medical maximum for non-cardiac ($25,000 limit for cardiac) conditions for 69 years & under; Upon attaining age 70 Acute Onset of Pre-existing Condition benefits are not available.

The plan also covers medical accidents and sickness up to $1,000,000, emergency medical and political evacuation, repatriation of remains, trip interruption, baggage, Covid-19, and AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment). The policy is available to non-US citizens and residents, offering coverage from 5 days to 364 days. Optional riders include Follow Me Home/Home country Rider, adventure sports travel, and 24 Hour AD&D upgrades. 

2. Atlas America 

Atlas America covers acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions if travelers are below 80 years of age and if the condition occurs spontaneously without warning, rapidly progressing, and requires immediate medical care. The plan will not cover the acute onset of a pre-existing condition if it occurs before the certificate’s effective date or if the illness is chronic or congenital. 

The plan covers up to the overall chosen maximum limit and up to a $25,000 lifetime maximum for Emergency Medical Evacuation. The plan also covers illnesses and injuries for in-patient and out-patient treatment, urgent care, pregnancy complications for the first 26 weeks, COVID-19, trip interruption, lost luggage, repatriation, and more. It also offers optional coverage for AD&D, personal liability coverage, and crisis response. 

3. Patriot America Plus 

Patriot America Plus is designed for US visitors needing temporary medical insurance during their stay. The plan covers the acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions for travelers under 70 years of age and if the condition needs to be treated within 24 hours after the sudden outbreak. The insured person must not be traveling with the intent or purpose of seeking treatment for the pre-existing illness, and the pre-existing condition must have been stabilized for at least 30 days before the effective date. 

The plan covers the acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions up to the period coverage limit. If there is any emergency medical evacuation resulting from the sudden emergence of the acute onset, the plan will cover up to $25,000. Furthermore, Patriot America Plus offers coverage for in-patient and out-patient treatment, COVID-19, trip interruption, AD&D, repatriation, optional coverage for adventure sports, etc. 

How to choose the right plan? 

It is challenging to determine the right plan because not all visitors have the exact requirement and travel needs. For example, if parents or family members visit the US for a few months, it is always a good practice to buy a plan that covers the acute onset of pre-existing conditions. On the other hand, younger travelers or kids may not have to worry about pre-existing conditions if they are medically fit. 

Visitor Guard® has several affordable visitor insurance plans, which include coverage for an acute onset of a pre-existing condition. For any help, contact us. We will help you choose a suitable plan that meets your travel and medical needs.