Travel Insurance and Stroke and Heart disease
For people with heart conditions or following a stroke, getting travel insurance can be a source of concern.
General things to know
- Illnesses you have or had before the insurance policy was issued are called pre-existing conditions.
- Don’t leave getting travel insurance until the last minute. Travel insurance for people with pre-existing conditions is more complicated than for those who don’t and takes more time to arrange.
- Talk to your doctor. You may need a letter stating you are fit to travel.
- Tell the insurance company everything about your current medical condition and any other illnesses you have had in the past. If you don’t, and then try to make a claim, the insurance company can declare your policy invalid.
- Make sure you are clear on what cover you are being offered.
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
The EHIC (previously the E111 or E128) entitles you, if you are an Irish resident, to medical care in the public system in European Union countries. This also applies to countries in the European Economic Area (EEA) such as Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein. If you become ill or injured while on a short stay to Switzerland you will also be covered. One card is needed for each person.
For more information on the EHIC call your local health office. The website www.ehic.ie has a list of these offices and has more information on the EHIC card. You are strongly advised to buy travel insurance as well as taking the EHIC card with you when travelling.
Northern Ireland & the UK
You do not need an EHIC card to get healthcare while on a short visit or holiday to the UK or Northern Ireland. It is enough to show proof that you are resident in Ireland – by showing your passport, driving licence or other similar documents.
Dos and Don'ts for travelling with Stroke and Heart disease
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