Swine flu: Anti-flu drug label needed to claim on travel insurance

Friday, 24 July 2009 11:51

Travellers trying to make a claim on a travel insurance policy for swine flu will no longer need written documentation from a GP.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has issued guidance that insurance companies will now accept diagnosis the unique ID number given to people to pick up swine flu drugs, together with the label on prescribed anti-flu drugs which will include an individual's name and date of issue.

Travel insurance polices will also cover costs arising from swine flu diagnosis, including medical treatment abroad and cancelled holidays and flights, subject to specific terms and conditions.

Nick Starling, the ABI's director of general insurance, said: "Travel insurance is there to help people who are too ill to travel or who become ill on holiday.

"We understand that the National Pandemic Flu Service will only authorise an anti-flu prescription to people who are genuinely displaying symptoms of swine flu. On that basis, travel insurers will accept an individual's unique ID number generated by the National Flu Service."

People trying to make a claim on their travel insurance are urged to keep all the original documentation they receive, including the label from their medication, as insurers will need it to validate the claim.

Travel insurance cover typically includes missed or rescheduled flights, as well as the cost of medical treatment abroad if the illness is contracted while on holiday.

Immediate family members are also protected when travelling with someone ill. If a spouse, parent or child is treated for swine flu, insurance usually covers the cost of rescheduling or cancelling travel plans for the whole family whether the illness is contracted before or during the voyage.

Individual airlines have different procedures for dealing with passengers too unwell to fly and most employ medical teams to make assessments.

If the airline does not cover a sick passenger under 'failure of service' provisions, customers will need written confirmation from the airline's medical advisers to make insurance claims.

Those quarantined abroad will also need written validation of their inability to fly to receive compensation and will be dealt with by insurers on a case-to-case basis.

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