As you search through various travel medical or visitors insurance plans, you may have come across the acute onset of pre-existing conditions benefit on select plans. For travelers who suffer from existing medical conditions, this may be a benefit that interests you when considering which plan to buy.
But what is acute onset of pre-existing conditions and what exactly does it mean when it comes to coverage for pre-existing conditions?
What Does Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions Mean?
An acute onset of a pre-existing condition is the very sudden, unexpected recurrence of a condition that you have been treated for in the past, but do not currently suffer from, and requires immediate treatment (within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms).
While we understand that this definition can be confusing, understanding the differences between pre-existing conditions and the acute onset of pre-existing conditions can help you further understand what each benefit could cover under a travel insurance plan.
What Is Covered by Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions Coverage?
The acute onset of pre-existing conditions benefit covers necessary health care for any medical emergency that's life-threatening or requires immediate medical treatment. It may also cover you for emergency medical transportation, emergency room costs, surgery, medications, and more depending on your plan.
Generally, the acute onset of a pre-existing condition needs to meet the following conditions:
- The recurrence or outbreak must be sudden, unexpected, and rapidly progressing
- The pre-existing condition must not be a chronic or active condition
- The condition must be life-threatening and require immediate care
- You must seek medical care for the occurrence within 24 hours
What Isn't Covered by Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions Coverage?
The acute onset of pre-existing conditions benefit will not cover conditions that are chronic or congenital, or a condition that has gotten worse over time. It also won't cover treatment or services for pre-existing conditions that were planned, scheduled, expected, or elected for.
Additionally, the following services are typically not covered under the acute onset of pre-existing conditions benefit:
- Any routine medical checkups. Example: A physical exam or seeing a doctor if you're healthy.
- Any preventative care or medical consultations. Example: Getting a flu shot or taking a treadmill test.
- Refill of prescription medication. Example: Refilling of blood pressure medication or refilling of diabetes glucose meter test strips.
- Health management classes. Example: Consultations, health management seminars, or health consultations.
Only after you file your claim with your insurance company will you know if your particular situation will be covered under the acute onset of pre-existing conditions benefit. After you file your claim, the insurance company will make their determination based on medical records and the attending physician's report.
What are Examples of the Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions?
Here are some additional examples of instances that may be considered the acute onset of a pre-existing condition.
- You suffer from and have been treated in the past for asthma. You use an inhaler or take medication for this condition either daily or as needed. As you are traveling, you have a sudden asthma attack, cannot breathe, and need to immediately be seen by a physician and are taken to urgent care or to a hospital to be treated. This may be considered an acute onset of a pre-existing condition.*
- Five years ago you suffered a heart attack. Since that time, you have been healthy and are following doctor’s recommendations. While traveling, you suffer another heart attack. This can be an acute onset of a pre-existing condition, as you were treated before, but this is out of nowhere, sudden, and needs immediate attention.*
Best Travel Insurance Plans for Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions
- Best Acute-Onset Travel Medical Insurance Plan for Seniors Under 80: Atlas America
- Best Acute-Onset Travel Medical Insurance Plan for Seniors 70 and Older: CoverAmerica-Gold
- Best Basic Acute-Onset Travel Medical Insurance Plan: Travel Medical Choice-USA
Keep in Mind That Final Determination May Vary for Acute Onset Coverage
Regardless of your situation, it is up to the policy provider during the claims process to determine the final outcome of whether your specific condition will be covered under your policy.
It is highly recommended to go over any questions or concerns with licensed insurance experts to answer any questions you may have regarding acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage. Also, if something does happen, make sure to keep any and all paperwork and documentation from the doctors that treated you.
Secure Your Travel Medical Insurance Plan with Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage
We understand that sometimes coverage differences for pre-existing conditions can be confusing. That is why our Customer Success Team is ready to help you with any questions you may have.
Feel free to contact our licensed insurance experts if you have additional questions about travel insurance for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
