Cheapest medical insurance 'may not be most appropriate'

Simply picking the cheapest insurance cover for trips abroad may not offer expatriates the most appropriate cover for their needs, an expert has said.

Travellers who commonly take the cheapest option for international medical cover may find that their policy does not provide them with particular options that they need, for example any assistance when dealing with existing medical conditions.

However, by speaking to an insurance provider, customers may be able to find the most appropriate cover, even if it does cost them slightly more, Sean Tipton from the Association of British Travel Agents has suggested.

He said that it is important to discuss any pre-existing medical conditions with insurance providers so that cover can be arranged.

His comments follow research from which? That shows more people are buying travel insurance policies from travel agents and are not being sold the most appropriate policy for their needs.

Anyone planning a move abroad should not rely on traditional travel insurance, but could instead opt for a specialised international medical care policy.