Swine Flu Outbreak
April 30, 2009
Travel Insured continues to closely monitor the outbreak of Swine Flu and the potential impact to our customers. Many travel suppliers, such as airlines, cruise lines and tour operators, are already working with customers to reroute, reschedule or cancel travel arrangements with no penalties or fees. Travelers concerned about upcoming travel to affected areas are encouraged to contact their travel suppliers.
At this time we are covering Swine Flu as any other Sickness. However, cancellation or interruption due to the concern of contracting the Swine Flu is not covered. Cancellation or Interruption due to Sickness requires documentation by the attending physician.
Coverage does not include concern of traveling to a specific region, and generally there is no coverage due to government regulations or advisories to specific regions. However, Travel Insured does provide Cancel for Any Reason coverage to travelers purchasing the Cancel for Any Reason option with their Travel Insured plan and cancelling their trip two or more days prior to their scheduled trip departure date.
We have prepared answers to many of the questions we have been receiving from our customers along with some general information on the swine flu. We will continue to monitor the situation and update our position as developments occur. If you have a question that is not addressed below, please call us at 1-800-243-3174 or via live chat at www.travelinsured.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ø Can I still purchase insurance for this outbreak of swine flu?
Yes. If you or other covered individuals contract swine flu before or while traveling, coverage will be provided for Sickness as specified in the terms and conditions of your policy.
Ø Am I covered for swine flu?
Cancel for Any Reason
If your policy includes our optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage; you may cancel your trip at any time up to two days prior to departure and receive up to 75% of your total trip cost.
Trip Cancellation – Interruption
We are treating Swine Flu as any other sickness supporting Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption as per the terms and conditions of your policy. Claims will require supporting statement from your attending physician.
Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expense
Swine flu would be considered an emergency medical condition if you contract it while traveling.
Emergency Medical Transportation
If you contract swine flu, contact our Assistance company. If evacuation is required as determined by our consulting physician and the local attending physician, we will take you to the appropriate medical facility. All transportation must be authorized and arranged by the Assistance Company.
Travel Delay
If you are quarantined because of swine flu, many of our policies will pay a daily per person benefit up to the coverage limit for unexpected meals, accommodations and transportation that result from your delay. Please review your specific policy for the terms and limits that apply.
Ø What if I am Quarantined?
Quarantine coverage is included under Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption and Trip Delay benefits, in the event a physician quarantines the traveler/insured for any illness which prevents traveling. Quarantine means that the person is restricted to their home or a medical facility; not restricted from one country or destination.
Ø How can I find out if my travel supplier will allow me to change the dates of my trip?
Many travel suppliers, such as airlines, cruise lines and tour operators, are already working with customers to reroute, reschedule or cancel travel arrangements with no penalties or fees. We recommend travelers concerned about upcoming travel to affected areas, to contact their travel suppliers.
Ø Can I change the travel dates on my policy if my supplier is allowing me to rebook?
Yes. We are happy to adjust the travel dates on your policy provided that you have not filed a claim and you have not departed on your trip and your new travel dates are within eighteen months of your original application date. If your supplier will charge you a change fee, we will not be able to cover that unless you file a claim on your existing policy. Should you choose to file a claim, you will need to purchase a new policy for the new trip.
Ø Can I cancel if I am concerned about traveling?
No. Our policies provide coverage for Trip Cancellation due to specific listed reasons that are unforeseen prior to purchase. Coverage is not provided for concern of traveling other than coverage provided under our Cancel for Any Reason option.
Ø Does my policy cover medical care if I become ill while traveling in Mexico
Yes. Swine Flu will be treated as any other Sickness under the terms and conditions of your policy.
Ø What should I do if I become sick while traveling?
Seek medical care immediately. Contact our Assistance Service provider for help in locating a doctor or nearest medical facility. Contact information and phone numbers are included in your Description of Coverage and on your Confirmation of Benefits. Be sure to take your policy documents with you when you travel and have these important phone numbers readily available.
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