Travel Insurance Question

Hi, I am sure some of you will have met the same problem as I have, in that I am waiting to have a scan for a sciatic problem. However when I rang for a Travel insurance quote I was told they cannot quote until the result of the scan is known. Knowing how fast the NHS moves these days it will be many weeks before I know that and I am concerned because I cannot risk booking flights or accommodation for our usual May holiday.

I see that online I can get quotes from some companies even though I tick yes to the 'Awaiting tests' question. In practice does the insurance company just refund the payment when it sees that answer and refuse to cover me until I can apply again after having the results?

Any experiences welcome please.

Susie. Like you I have had disc problems causing sciatica for many years but knew what the problem was and just put up with it without consulting my GP. Last summer I had a more severe attack due to carrying heavy suitcases in Corfu so this time had to have it checked out and an X-ray confirmed one disc space had become much narrower. I still did nothing until the New Year when I saw a specialist as it still really bad. He said he needed to see an MRI scan before suggesting any treatment.
I knew I must now declare it for my travel insurance or I could be in real trouble financially in case of any health problem on holiday as the companies send for your health records. It is so easy to trip and especially on the rough paths we use in Corfu!
I just hadn't thought about the NHS delays and possible booking problems. I know we can always go later but May suits us and our friends where we stay fine.

As a matter of interest when I added sciatica as an existing condition the quotes almost doubled!!!

Try contacting Staysure. We've had joint annual travel insurance with them for the last four years. We both have pre-existing medical conditions which have been covered for a very reasonable cost. Staysure specialise in over 50's and pre-existing conditions.

Try Insure and Go. I have had no problems with them even with a back problem

Is'nt it a pain getting old

Thanks for the suggestions and will look further into Staysure. Although they do give an online quote AFTER I stated I was awaiting investigations, it was much higher than I was hoping. The online process was a bit complicated when giving details of pre-conditions and the questions have to be read very carefully to see EXACTLY what they are asking. The killer question was something like "Has it affected your daily life ?"  (I had to unfortunately answer  'Yes'. What health condition causing you to go to the doctor hasn't? )
As my scan is due in 3 weeks I shall probably now wait for the results before booking the holiday. At least that might mean I can get more quotes.

Phoned Aviva (through Co-op Bank) to advise that I am suffering from Atrial Fibrallation (heart with erratic beat). They asked loads of questions, I was on aspirin and beta blockers) no change to policy. By Friday I was on Warfarin so I phoned again. No change in policy.
I cannot believe I have the same cover at no extra charge but have a lot more peace of mind after declaring what to me were major health changes.

I've just got joint annual cover for my wife and myself, I had a heart attack in 2011 followed by a triple bypass, and my wife has high blood pressure. All covered by cover for you.com for £101.00, was pretty chuffed.

We have a couple of friends who have spent a holiday on Corfu for years, sadly due to their age and past illnesses, although they are not refused a quote, like some people, the quotes they are given are in 4 figures or there abouts, so sadly, no more Corfu for them.

I can't believe that anyone who has worked in insurance travels without it. Don't do it!! All Clear are good for older peeps and medical conditions