Scleroderma Travel Insurance

As well as providing cover for customers with common conditions we are also able to screen for rare complaints, such as scleroderma. Scleroderma causes the immune system to attack the connective tissue around organs and blood vessels and under the skin. Currently there is no cure for the condition and the severity of the illness can be dependent on the type you have but many patients live a full and productive life.

It is important to include all conditions on your travel insurance policy making sure you have complete cover whilst on your holiday. Declaring your conditions is easy with our medical screening process whether you purchase over the phone or online. If you are buying online, just search for your condition and answer the simple accompanying questions. We should then be able to provide a selection of policies which meet your needs for you to choose from.

Tips and advice for travelling with Scleroderma

• Make sure you discuss your travel plans with your Doctor / Specialist to get an expert opinion on whether you can travel
• Discuss any vaccinations or specialist equipment you may need to take with you
• Ask your specialist for a list of medications you are taking, as well as those you avoid with the reason why
• Discuss with the airline any special requirements you may have, such as oxygen therapy. You may also need a ‘fitness to fly test’ to ensure you are fit to fly
• Where possible, consider travelling by train rather than flying as this may be more relaxing
• Avoid unpasteurised foods, for example Brie, feta and blue cheese if you are on immunosuppressive drugs
• Check the facilities at the hotel as overseas hotels generally have the shower over the bath. Check that you can book a walk-in shower for ease of access, especially if you have trouble getting in and out of the bath
• If you are travelling to Europe, then it is essential that you carry an EHIC – European Health Insurance Card. Please see our dedicated page for more details - What is the Ehic

Booking your Scleroderma Travel Insurance

You should talk to your Doctor / Consultant before confirming travel plans to ensure you are fit to travel. They may also be able to provide extra advice on travelling. If, due to complications relating to your scleroderma you are unable to travel you may be able to make a claim for cancellation. Our policies also provide a 24-hour medical assistance line, expenses relating to ambulance and hospital costs and repatriation to the UK amongst others.

At Direct Travel we may be able offer cover to customers who have experienced scleroderma as a pre-existing condition, provided it is declared at the medical screening stage of the booking process. Please have to hand information about your condition, any medication you are currently taking and any treatment you have received. Unfortunately, it is harder to arrange travel insurance if you are awaiting a diagnosis or treatment.

To provide peace of mind for patients, a policy which covers family members, and/or a carer may be suitable depending on your circumstances to ensure that everyone is covered appropriately.