Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions Examples

Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions Examples

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?

Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions Definition

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.

Definitions of acute onset of pre-existing conditions may vary by plan, so it’s recommended to review an individual plan’s description of coverage for specific details.

The Difference Between Pre-existing and Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions

The general definition of a pre-existing condition is an injury, illness, sickness, disease, or other physical, medical, mental, or nervous condition, disorder or ailment (whether known or unknown) that, with reasonable medical certainty, existed prior to or at the time of applying for travel medical insurance.

Pre-existing conditions are the medical issues themselves, while the acute onset of pre-existing conditions is the sudden and unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition.

Most travel insurance policies don't cover pre-existing conditions. View plans that offer pre-existing condition coverage.

Kidney Stones - Pre-existing Condition or Acute Onset of a Pre-existing Condition?

Here are two separate examples of kidney stones in two separate instances - one considered a pre-existing condition, and the other considered an acute onset of a pre-existing condition.

Considered a Pre-existing Condition

You are currently dealing with kidney stones that have not passed yet, and during this time, you purchase travel insurance and then proceed on your trip. 

Even though the kidney stones are painful and you may eventually need medical attention, this condition under this circumstance would typically be considered as a pre-existing condition since the policyholder knew about the ailment prior to purchasing their travel insurance policy. In this example, expenses for kidney stones treatment would likely not be covered under travel insurance.

Considered an Acute Onset of a Pre-existing Condition

If however, you have not had any recent problems with kidney stones and then suddenly, out of nowhere, you have another kidney stone that causes extreme pain and you need to see a doctor while on your trip, this may be considered an acute onset of a pre-existing condition.

If you have a travel insurance policy that is currently in effect that offers coverage for the acute onset of a pre-existing condition, this sudden health issue may be covered (final determination from the policy provider).

Pre-existing Conditions Examples

Here are some additional examples of instances that would likely be considered pre-existing conditions.

  • You suffer from epilepsy. Due to the nature of this chronic disease, it is considered a pre-existing condition because a seizure is always a possibility at any given time. You may still need medical attention, however, even with an active travel insurance policy in place, this most likely will not be covered.*
  • You are being treated for cancer. Before your policy was in effect, you were handling your treatments well. Then while traveling, you have a set back or different health issues occur due to the cancer diagnosis or treatments. This is pre-existing and most likely will not be covered.* 
  • You are pregnant. You decide to take a trip and purchase travel insurance. While traveling, there is an issue with the pregnancy or you go into labor. This is a pre-existing condition and most likely will not be covered.*

Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions Examples

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.*
*Disclaimer: these are just examples and it will be up to the attending physician's medical report and the insurance company's claim department to determine whether a condition was deemed an actual acute onset or not.

Best Travel Insurance Plans for Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions



Be Aware - Final Determination May Vary

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 your policy’s customer service department to answer any questions you may have in regards to pre-existing condition coverage. Also, should something happen, make sure to keep any and all paperwork and documentation from the doctors that treated you.

Travel medical insurance is not meant to replace the domestic or preventative care insurance coverage that would allow their physician to treat them should they need treatment for their pre-existing conditions. If a traveler is in poor health or at high risk for a medical event, it's likely best for them to refrain from travel.