Dr. Punam Krishan from BBC Morning Live has issued a stern warning to holidaymakers about a potentially costly mistake that could leave them severely ill and facing debts of up to £50,000. As per a recent study by Staysure, a medical travel insurance provider, a significant number of British travellers with pre-existing medical conditions are setting off on their trips without any travel insurance. Shockingly, one in five of these travellers mistakenly believes they do not require insurance coverage. Staysure’s data points out that the expense for emergency medical repatriation can range from £53,000 to £177,000 from popular destinations like Spain, the USA, Thailand, or India. This leaves many individuals vulnerable to financial ruin if they encounter a medical emergency without insurance coverage.
Dr. Punam Krishan emphasised the critical importance of purchasing travel insurance tailored to one’s specific medical conditions as part of the holiday preparation process. She introduced the TRIP acronym to aid individuals in adequately preparing for their trips well in advance. The UK has over 30 million people with at least one manageable health condition like diabetes, allergies, high blood pressure, or eczema. It is crucial for these individuals to declare their medical conditions when purchasing travel insurance to avoid any potential risks.
Dr. Punam shared her essential pre-holiday TRIP checklist to assist travellers with pre-existing medical conditions in ensuring a safe journey. The checklist includes talking to one’s doctor about upcoming holidays, researching medical services at the holiday destination, verifying insurance coverage for medical conditions, and packing essential medication and equipment with backups. She also highlighted the importance of carrying the necessary documentation for medical equipment and medications, along with checking airline regulations regarding carrying medical supplies.
Travel insurance specifically addressing pre-existing medical conditions is essential, according to Dr. Punam. Failing to declare all medical conditions to the insurer can lead to inadequate protection in case of a medical emergency abroad, resulting in hefty medical bills and potentially having to fund repatriation on your own. Dr. Punam advised travellers to double and triple-check that they have packed all necessary medication and equipment, ensuring they have ample supplies in hand luggage in case of delays or lost luggage.
Dr. Punam reiterated the significance of reviewing insurance coverage for medical conditions before embarking on any international travel. She recounted instances where travellers paid minimal costs for travel insurance, which later saved them from staggering repatriation expenses. With the potential consequences of travelling without adequate insurance coverage, Dr. Punam urged individuals to verify their policies, declare all medical conditions accurately, and seek necessary medical protection for themselves and their families before setting off on their holidays.
In conclusion, Dr. Punam Krishan’s advice serves as a valuable reminder for all travellers, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions, to prioritise obtaining comprehensive travel insurance coverage. By following her TRIP checklist and ensuring proper insurance declarations, travellers can mitigate risks, safeguard their health and finances, and enjoy a stress-free holiday experience. Remember, adequately preparing for a holiday isn’t just about packing clothes and sunscreen; it’s also about safeguarding your well-being and financial security.