Travel Insurance for a Stroke

What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, usually by a clot. This can be a clot blocking an artery, which is called an ischaemic stroke, or from bleeding in or around the brain itself, which is called a haemorrhagic stroke. We list a stroke under blood and circulatory conditions because it’s a problem with the blood vessels.

The effects depend on which part of the brain was affected and for how long. Some people recover almost fully, while others are left with weakness, speech difficulties, tiredness, or problems with memory. Recovery often continues for months with rehabilitation. The NHS stroke page has detail on symptoms, treatment and recovery.

Why do I need to declare a stroke for travel insurance?

A stroke is considered a pre-existing medical condition, especially since afterwards, people often stay on medication to prevent future occurrences. We ask about it because the chance of another stroke is higher than average, particularly in the first months, and lasting effects such as weakness or balance problems can make falls more likely. Either could mean emergency treatment abroad or a holiday cancelled at short notice.

If your stroke isn’t declared, a claim connected to it could be turned down or paid at a reduced amount.

You won’t need to declare every medical condition you’ve ever had or been diagnosed with, only those that fall into the initial set of medical questions.

Can I get travel insurance after a stroke?

Many stroke survivors can get cover. The time since the stroke tends to be the biggest factor in whether it’s offered, as the risk of another is higher in the early months. The screening also looks at whether you’ve had more than one, any lasting effects, and related conditions such as high blood pressure or atrial fibrillation.

What we’ll ask about your stroke

The online medical screening is easy to get through, and you'll be asked about how many strokes you've had, when you've had them, mobility, treatment, and related conditions. When you’re done declaring this condition, carry on declaring any other relevant pre-existing medical conditions.

After the declaration, you’ll be taken to the quote page. You’ll be shown a list of quotes if your stroke and your other conditions are coverable, and each premium includes the cost of cover for your medical. If we’re unable to offer cover, you’ll be told before you proceed.

If your health changes before travelling

Recovery after a stroke can have ups and downs. If your medication changes, you have a stay in hospital, you’re referred for scans, or you receive a new diagnosis before you travel, you must let us know. Your cover may need reviewing, we may need to refer your medical situation to the underwriters, and in some cases we may not be able to proceed with cover. If you don’t let us know of any changes in your medical, a future claim can be affected or denied.

What can travel insurance for a stroke cover?

When your stroke is accepted on the policy, a medical emergency related to it can be covered while you’re away. If you suffer another stroke in France and are treated in hospital there, emergency medical costs can be covered, along with repatriation with a medical escort if you need it. Subject to the policy terms, exclusions, limits and excess.

If you become unwell before the trip and your doctor advises you not to travel, you may be able to claim for non-refundable costs under cancellation cover.

The policy won’t cover rehabilitation or therapy you planned to have abroad, or claims linked to any condition you didn’t declare.

Will a stroke affect the cost of travel insurance?

Having had a stroke may have an impact on your premium, depending on how the medical questions have been answered, in conjunction with other declared medical conditions. Factors like age, destination, and trip duration can also have an impact. You can check the cost before you buy.

Single trip or annual cover after a stroke

Single trip cover suits a single holiday. Annual multi-trip cover can be better value if you’ll travel more, though whether it’s available depends on your screening result.

Travelling after a stroke: practical tips

Here are some general ideas to make travelling easier. They aren’t part of your cover.

Give yourself time. Many people are advised not to fly for a period after a stroke, and the right timing depends on the type of stroke and your recovery. Your stroke team or GP can tell you when it’s sensible, and airlines may ask for a medical form.

Book assistance at the airport. It’s free, and it helps if you’re slower walking, get tired easily or find crowds confusing. Ask for a seat with extra legroom or close to the toilets if mobility is limited. If your speech is affected, carry a card explaining that you’ve had a stroke.

Fatigue after a stroke is very common and can be worse after travelling. Keep your plans flexible and build in rest. Shorter flights and destinations with good accessible transport can make a big difference to how much you enjoy the trip.

Keep taking your preventive medicines at the usual times, and drink plenty of water, especially in the heat or on a long flight. If you’re on blood thinners, take care with activities that might cause a fall.

How to get a quote

Enter your trip details, answer the medical questions about your stroke and any other conditions, and choose the cover that fits. You’ll see the price before paying.

Get a Quote

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Don't worry if your condition is not listed above - we cover plenty more medical conditions.
* Please note that cover will vary depending on individual medical screenings.