Most standard holiday company insurance policies will not cover pre-existing medical conditions such as epilepsy, cancer, diabetes, angina and high blood pressure.However, there are specialist insurance companies that do. You may get a much cheaper insurance if pre-existing conditions are not covered but you could be putting yourself at considerable risk should you fall ill. 

The insurance company will usually ask you to go through a medical screening process. Always disclose any pre-existing medical conditions as failure to do so could invalidate any subsequent claim.

If you are travelling in Europe you should ensure you have the GHIC (Global Health Insurance card, (formally EHIC – European Health Insurance Card)).  This lets you get state health care in Europe at a reduced cost or sometimes for free.  You can apply for a GHIC on the NHS website.  The card has to be renewed every five years so check the expiry date in plenty of time before you travel! You can renew up to 6 months before expiry date.                                                           If you have an a current EHIC it will be valid until the expiry date on the card.  Once it expires, you will need to apply for GHIC to replace it.

One insurance company that covers people with pre-existing conditions is Fish Insurance. Their travel and holiday insurance provides specific benefits, such as the emergency replacement of vital prescription medicines or your carer. They also will cover anyone up to the age of 85. It is possible to also apply for this cover online.