Almost nine million people may have to pay an extra £1,000 for a holiday abroad this year, as those on NHS waiting lists face soaring insurance costs. Anyone trying to avoid the payment may face much higher fees if they fall ill overseas.
The Scale of the Problem
One in five people on NHS waiting lists plan to holiday abroad without travel insurance, according to a recent survey, risking hefty healthcare bills. Currently, over 7.1 million adults are waiting for consultant-led treatment, with a further 1.7 million awaiting diagnosis. Many cannot afford standard policies due to high premiums linked to their medical conditions.
Extra Costs and Risks
Of those on waiting lists who refuse to miss their holiday, 15% have paid up to £1,000 extra for specialist cover. Many insurers keep premiums low by not covering existing conditions, forcing patients to seek specialist insurance. Those waiting for a diagnosis find it particularly difficult, and one in four plan to travel without proper cover. One in 20 have avoided foreign holidays altogether due to the cost or difficulty of obtaining insurance.
Conditions Most Affected
The poll of 2,034 adults, commissioned by Wellsoon from Practice Plus Group, found that adults with hernias are most likely to travel without correct cover, followed by those with cancer. The hardest conditions to insure include heart or blood pressure issues, and musculoskeletal problems such as arthritis, hip or knee pain, back pain, and neck or shoulder pain.
Expert Warnings
A spokesperson for Practice Plus Group said: “It’s a story we hear regularly from people who have a health issue they want addressed before their holiday, but they’re on a waiting list. They worry about being in limbo, potentially needing medical help far from home without knowing the cost.”
Regulatory Requirements
Since April 2021, the Financial Conduct Authority has required travel insurance firms to signpost consumers with pre-existing conditions to specialist directories, such as the MoneyHelper directory provided by the Money and Pensions Service. A spokesperson from the Money and Pensions Service stressed: “If you have a pre-existing condition you must disclose it. Otherwise, your claim could be rejected. Depending on your circumstances, you may need a medical exam to tailor your policy. Specialist travel insurance gives peace of mind that your condition is covered.”
