An Exploratory Study of Medical Cover Policies Offered by the Travel Health Insurance Industry

ABSTRACT

Background: Travel insurance represents the most important safety measure for travellers in case of unfortunate events incurred during travel abroad. There are many travel insurance companies which offer services to residents of their state under a wide range of terms and regulations. Objective: This study attempts to explore the different types of medical coverage policies offered by travel insurance organizations operating in the Republic of Ireland. Methods: A web-based content analysis using the Google search engine was performed. Results: Total 16 travel insurance policies were identified for analysis. Each insurance policy identified provides a different travel health cover plans to policyholders, particularly tourists embarking on international journeys. The variance in medical coverage offered by the insurance companies depends on their business strategy and product differentiation. There were differences among the companies offering travel medical insurance. Total 6 out of 16 medical travel plans in the Irish market offer cover for pre-existing conditions provided that clients submit themselves for medical screening tests and pay higher premiums. Only 4 companies offer cover to older travellers and there are 2 travel insurers who specifically excluded acute mental illnesses in their basic cover plan. Conclusion: All the insurance firms within the Irish market insure unexpected illnesses or disorders, dental care, funeral services costs in the event of death, and medical evacuations. However, few policies consider covering unlisted medical conditions such as cancer, mental and heart disorders unless the traveller pays extra premiums.