I had a heart attack 14 years ago.   I am 71.

I have just purchased a pension annuity but could not get any enhancement to the rate for my medical condition. ie they expect me to have a normal life expectancy.

I am now trying to purchase travel insurance for 3 weeks in the USA and being quoted over £800 because of my condition.

Can anyone explain this?

Georgieboy

As medical treatment is so expensive in America it would not be unusual for someone to incur costs in excess of £100,000 as a result of a heart condition. As you have previously had a heart attack the standard cost of insurance is increased to take into account the extra risk. Whilst £800 would not come anywhere near covering that cost insurers do quote additional premiums in the hope that there will be sufficient money in the pool to cover loss of this size.

This type of premium is not a rip off, it's just a reflection of the additional risk that your personal circumstances bring to the pool.

Hope this helps

Hello Georgieboy and welcome to the forum.

My father has a similar predisposing medical condition and his travel insurance cover was going up annually by huge amounts.

He got travel insurance through SAGA and they were very reasonable and have complete understanding of your age group and associated conditions. Their cover was cheaper but more comprehensive than others around so maybe try them.

DD