Insurance
Finding insurance,
in particular travel insurance, when you have a
heart condition
or
are recovering from a heart
attack or heart
surgery, can be difficult.
We know how frustrating this can be and so
we have compiled some information
together about a number of insurance
companies, gathered from feedback from people who
have a heart condition.
We don't work with or endorse any of the
companies mentioned
and we can't guarantee
that they will be able to offer insurance to everyone
- however, this may prove to be a
good starting point.
How do I answer the medical questions that insurance
companies ask?
The health declarations that insurance companies ask
for are often very detailed,
particularly about your past and present health
conditions and medications.
It is really important therefore
to declare all your past and present health
conditions because in making a mistake or omission could
unfortunately result in any claim made being refused. It
is a good idea to talk to your GP before
purchasing an insurance policy as they will be able to help
you answer the medical questions about your
health.
We welcome your feedback about insurance and you
can email this to us at hearthelponline@bhf.org.uk,
or write to us at the British Heart Foundation, Heart Help
Line, Greater London House, 180 Hampstead Road, London NW1 7AW.
What can I do if I can't find travel insurance?
The Association of British
Insurers may be able to help if
you are finding it difficult to get travel
insurance.
What if I have a complaint?
If you have any complaints or think you have been
treated unfairly as a result of a policy
claim, the Financial
Ombudsman Service are there to help you.
Will a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) cover my heart
condition?
The EHIC can entitle UK citizens to free or
reduced-cost medical treatment in those countries.
While it is important to have a
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) when you're
travelling in most European countries, it doesn't replace travel
insurance so it's important to have
both.
You can apply for an EHIC online on
the NHS
Choices website or through the Post Office.
For a full list of the countries covered by an EHIC
and more general information, contact the
Department of Health.
If you need oxygen supply services while
you are abroad, contact the Department of
Health's Customer Service
Centre on 020 7210 4850 for
more information.
What if I want to go abroad for medical treatment or
surgery?
An E112 may give you the option of undergoing
medical or surgical treatment in other EU countries. You can
find more information in the Department of Health's
booklet Health
Advice for Travellers.
Useful information
Heart Matters is a
pioneering new service from us, which offers a unique package of
support and information for people looking to improve their heart
health. For more information and to sign up to Heart Matters,
please visit our Heartmatters section
or call 0300 330 3300 (Monday to Friday, 9am to
6pm. Calls are charged at a local
rate).
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