Cancer patients 'priced out' of holidays, charity warns

Cancer patients 'priced out' of holidays, charity warns

Travel insurance costs for cancer patients are becoming increasingly prohibitive, causing many to be priced out of holidays, according to the cancer support charity Maggie’s. Patients and those with a history of cancer are reportedly facing premiums in the thousands or even being denied coverage altogether. Dame Laura Lee, the charity’s chief executive, expressed concern over the additional stress that inflated insurance costs can add to individuals already dealing with a cancer diagnosis.

In response to the challenges faced by cancer patients seeking travel insurance, Maggie’s has called for collaboration between the Treasury, Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and insurers to develop solutions that ensure fair treatment for this vulnerable group of individuals. Dame Lee emphasized the importance of travel for overall well-being and recovery, underlining the unfairness of excluding cancer patients from the opportunity to visit loved ones abroad or explore the world.

Josh Cull, a 28-year-old who underwent treatment for a brain tumor in 2021, shared his experience of struggling to find affordable insurance for a trip to South East Asia. Despite being in good health with no recurring conditions, Mr. Cull was quoted at £3,000, which he deemed unaffordable. With most of his savings depleted from the cost of treatment, he opted to travel without insurance, taking other precautions like additional vaccinations. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) reiterated its commitment to assisting customers with cancer, noting that they provide referrals to specialist providers for those who cannot obtain cover due to pre-existing conditions.

A 2018 report by the FCA highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by cancer patients in accessing affordable travel insurance, even post-treatment. The ABI’s signposting agreement aims to direct individuals towards suitable policies through specialized providers when traditional insurers are unable to offer coverage. The BBC has reached out to the Treasury for comment on this matter

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