Academy statement: Clinical trials and travel insurance (2024 update)

The Association of British Insurers have updated the original statement first published in 2019.

“When individuals apply for travel insurance, insurers will typically ask questions about an individual’s health in order to make an accurate risk assessment. This risk assessment takes into consideration the health of the individual and the insurer will typically ask questions about any preexisting health conditions and medical treatments for those conditions.    ​

Travel insurers do not typically ask about clinical research trials. In the instance where an insurer does ask an individual about their participation in clinical research trials, the insurer must ensure the question is clear and the individual should answer it accurately and honestly.​

Typically, participation in a clinical trial is not something that of itself would be expected to lead to increased premiums or insurance refusal, as it may not carry increased risk above that associated with the condition under trial. However, this may depend on the trial itself, particularly for those in the very early stages. Where appropriate, travel insurers will assess the risk of early trials on a case-by-case basis. If insurers are unable to provide cover, they will sign-post customers with pre-existing conditions to a specialist provider.​

The vast majority of those participating in clinical trials are not asked about it by their insurer and do not face challenges obtaining travel insurance.”