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Planning a well-deserved holiday? Before you jet off to paradise, there's a crucial step many travellers overlook – declaring their health conditions. Travel insurance is your safety net when things go wrong, but failing to disclose pre-existing conditions, even seemingly minor ones, can invalidate your policy, leaving you facing hefty medical bills abroad.

Health and travel experts are increasingly highlighting the importance of transparency when it comes to medical history. While many people are aware they need to declare conditions like diabetes or heart disease, a surprising number are unaware that hearing loss often falls into this category.

Why is hearing loss considered a pre-existing condition? It's not about the severity of the loss, but rather the fact that it's a condition you had before your travel insurance policy began. This includes everything from mild tinnitus to severe sensorineural hearing loss, and even the use of hearing aids. Insurance companies need to assess the potential risk associated with your medical history, and failing to disclose this information can be considered misrepresentation.

What happens if you don't declare your hearing loss? If you require medical treatment abroad related to your hearing loss, your insurance company could refuse to cover the costs. This could leave you with a very large bill, potentially ruining your holiday and causing significant financial stress. Furthermore, it could also affect future insurance applications.

How to declare your hearing loss: The process is simple. When applying for travel insurance, be honest and upfront about your hearing condition. Most online forms have a specific section for pre-existing medical conditions. You may be asked to provide details about the type of hearing loss, its severity, and any treatment you're receiving. Some insurers may require a medical report from your audiologist or doctor.

Tips for finding the right travel insurance with hearing loss:

• Compare quotes from multiple insurers: Policies can vary significantly in terms of coverage and price.
• Look for specialist travel insurance providers: Some companies specialize in providing cover for people with pre-existing medical conditions.
• Read the policy wording carefully: Pay close attention to the exclusions and limitations.
• Don’t try to hide anything: Honesty is always the best policy.

Don't let hearing loss be the reason your holiday turns into a nightmare. Taking a few minutes to declare your condition upfront can save you a world of trouble and ensure you have the peace of mind you deserve. Enjoy your travels – safely and insured!