When comparing different travel medical insurance plans, it is important to be aware of what the different policies do not cover. For example:
Pre-existing Conditions –A pre-existing condition is a health problem that exists before departure.
Most insurance companies will not pay for any emergency expenses related to a medical condition diagnosed by a licensed physician if at any time in the three to four months before you depart on your trip, this medical condition has not been stable, or if at any time in the last six to eight months before your departure, you have been prescribed or taken medication, or received treatment for this medical condition. ( Exact length of time may vary from insurance company to insurance company.)
Check with your physician about any health problems, previous treatment, and medication you should mention to the travel insurance company, especially if your medication has changed recently.
Medical Exclusions or Exemptions
Policies do not cover medical emergency costs in specific situations that are identified in clauses dealing with medical exclusions or exemptions. Such clauses may apply to the costs of emergency medical care related to:
- self-inflicted injuries, suicide or attempted suicide,
- pregnancy, childbirth or complications of either, occurring in the last trimester,
- your participation in contact sports or other risky activities such as scuba diving, sky diving, hang-gliding and mountain climbing,
- drug and alcohol abuse,
- your direct involvement in a criminal act,
- an act of war (declared or not) of foreign enemies or rebellion, or
- travel to certain countries5.
Non-emergencies
Keep in mind that most travel medical insurance policies will not pay for:
- continued treatment or follow-up care after your medical emergency has been stabilized, or any care that can safely wait until you return to Ontario,
- routine health care,
- elective surgery, or
- investigative or diagnostic services.
Where a written formal notice was issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Canadian Government, advising Canadians not to travel to that country, region or city you need to get a special risk policy to be covered.