Travel can be a liberating and enriching experience, but for people with a stoma it often requires additional planning and consideration. One key aspect of this preparation is securing the right travel insurance to ensure peace of mind and financial protection. Here we answer some common questions about travel insurance, including whether people with stomas need specialised coverage, what to look for in a policy, and tips for travelling with a stoma.
Do People with Stomas Need Special Travel Insurance?
People with a stoma do not necessarily require a "special" type of travel insurance, but they do need a policy that covers their pre-existing medical condition(s). A standard travel insurance policy may not automatically cover complications related to a stoma, so it’s essential to declare this and any other conditions when purchasing your insurance.
If a stoma results from an underlying condition such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or bowel cancer, insurers will likely consider these as pre-existing medical conditions as well. Failing to disclose relevant medical history can lead to a denied claim should a medical issue arise while abroad.
What to Look for in a Travel Insurance Policy
When purchasing travel insurance as a person with a stoma, look for the following key features:
1. Medical Cover
A good travel insurance policy should include adequate medical coverage. The amount required depends on the destination. For instance:
- In Europe, coverage of at least £2 million is recommended.
- In the USA, where healthcare costs are much higher, £5 million or more is advisable.
Ensure that medical expenses related to your stoma (including potential infections, blockages, or emergency hospital treatment) are explicitly covered.
2. Repatriation Cover
Repatriation insurance ensures that if a medical emergency arises that requires returning to the UK, the costs will be covered. This can be crucial if treatment abroad is inadequate or prohibitively expensive.
3. Lost or Delayed Medical Supplies
A policy that provides compensation for lost or delayed medical supplies can be incredibly beneficial, ensuring replacements can be sourced without additional financial burden.
4. Cancellation and Curtailment
If a medical complication related to your stoma (or another pre-existing condition) forces you to cancel or cut short your trip, insurance should cover non-refundable expenses such as flights, accommodation, and excursions.
5. 24/7 Medical Assistance Helpline
Having access to a medical helpline that provides advice and support in case of an emergency can be invaluable when travelling abroad.
6. Additional Cover
You should also consider your cover needs for things unrelated to your condition(s) and stoma. For example, if you’re taking a laptop with you on your trip you may require an add-on to your policy to cover theft or damage.
Where to Get Travel Insurance for People with Stomas
While some mainstream insurers may provide adequate coverage, there are specialist providers that cater specifically to people with medical conditions, including those with stomas. Colostomy UK has produced a list of insurance companies that specialise in providing cover for ostomates including:
These insurers often have more flexible underwriting criteria and greater understanding of medical conditions, making them a good choice for travellers with stomas.
How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for Someone with a Stoma?
The cost of travel insurance varies depending on several factors, including:
- Destination: Travelling to countries with high medical costs (e.g., the USA) will be more expensive.
- Age: Older travellers typically pay higher premiums.
- Medical History: Additional health conditions alongside a stoma may increase costs.
- Trip Duration: Longer trips usually result in higher premiums.
- Coverage Level: Comprehensive policies with higher medical cover, trip cancellation, and lost baggage protection will cost more.
On average, a traveller with a stoma might pay between £50 and £200 for single-trip insurance, depending on these factors.
Tips for Travelling with a Stoma
Beyond insurance, taking practical steps can help to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Here are some essential travel tips:
1. Carry Extra Supplies
Always pack more stoma supplies than you think you'll need. A general rule of thumb is to bring double the amount you’d typically use for the duration of your trip.
2. Split Your Supplies
Divide your supplies between your hand luggage, checked baggage, and a smaller bag for easy access. This reduces the risk of losing everything if luggage is delayed or lost. We always advise people travel with at least 2 days’ worth of supplies in their hand luggage.
3. Carry a Medical Travel Certificate
A travel certificate explains your medical condition in multiple languages. This can be useful when going through airport security.
Download your free travel certificate from SecuriCare.
4. Be Prepared for Security Checks
At airports, inform security staff about your stoma before screening. You may request for any additional checks that are needed to be carried out in a discreet area.
5. Research Local Healthcare Facilities
Before travelling, check where the nearest hospitals or pharmacies are in case you need medical assistance or additional supplies.
6. Stay Hydrated and Eat Carefully
Travel can sometimes disrupt normal dietary habits. Stick to foods that you know won’t cause irritation, and drink plenty of water, unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional, especially in hot climates. You can find more information and advice on nutrition and hydration in our free downloadable guides.
For more travel tips check out our guide to travelling with a stoma.
Can You Use an EHIC or GHIC Instead of Travel Insurance?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its replacement, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), provides access to state healthcare in EU countries at the same cost as local residents. However, it is not a substitute for travel insurance, as it does not cover:
- Private medical treatment
- Medical repatriation
- Lost or stolen baggage
- Trip cancellation
So, even if you have a GHIC, it’s still a good idea to purchase travel insurance.
People with a stoma can and should enjoy travelling just like anyone else, but they may need to take extra precautions when it comes to travel insurance. By choosing a policy that covers medical emergencies, lost supplies, and trip disruptions, travellers can explore the world with confidence.
If you have a stoma and are planning a trip, start by comparing specialist travel insurance providers, declare your medical condition honestly, and ensure you have comprehensive coverage. For peace of mind, it’s a good idea to take out your cover as soon as you’ve booked your trip. With the right preparation, you can focus on enjoying your journey without unnecessary worries.