Individuals & Families

Medically Underwritten Travel Insurance in Canada

Garrett Agencies Team
September 18, 2025
5 min read

garrett.ca/learn/medically-underwritten-travel-insurance-in-canada

Finding travel insurance can be challenging if you have pre-existing health conditions. Standard travel insurance plans often exclude unstable conditions, leaving many Canadians with limited or no protection. Travelling without coverage, or without enough coverage, can expose you to financial risk if an emergency happens abroad.

That is where Manulife’s Medically Underwritten Travel Insurance comes in. It is currently the only plan of its kind in Canada, designed to provide accessible protection for travellers with complex or unstable health needs.

Why Consider Medically Underwritten Travel Insurance?

Unlike standard policies, this plan allows you to apply for coverage even if you have serious or unstable pre-existing conditions. By completing a medical questionnaire and disclosing your health history, you can qualify for coverage tailored to your situation.

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive protection: Up to $10 million in emergency medical coverage
  • Flexible options: Choose between single-trip or multi-trip plans
  • 0-day stability period: Coverage available for individuals with unstable conditions who would otherwise be declined under regular plans
  • Worldwide protection: Valid anywhere you travel, provided you remain covered by a Canadian provincial or territorial health insurance plan

What Does It Cover?

The Individual Medical Underwriting Plan provides coverage for a wide range of emergency expenses, including:

  • Hospital and physician services
  • Prescription drugs and diagnostic tests
  • Ambulance and paramedical services
  • Emergency dental care
  • Semi-private hospital accommodation
  • Medical evacuation and return to Canada
  • Return of children, travel companions, or your vehicle if needed
  • Bedside visits if you are hospitalized while travelling alone

Who Can Apply?

Coverage is available for both short getaways and extended travel, up to 365 days.

Extra Support While Abroad

Manulife’s Medically Underwritten Travel Plans also include Medical Concierge Services, which help you coordinate care, access international providers, and navigate health systems while away from home.

Key Takeaway

If you have complex medical needs, do not assume you must travel without protection. With Manulife’s Medically Underwritten Travel Insurance, you can access meaningful coverage that protects against the high costs of medical emergencies abroad.

Talk to Garrett Agencies

At Garrett Agencies, we help clients with complex health conditions find the right travel insurance.

Contact us today to discuss whether a medically underwritten plan is right for you and get a personalized quote before your next trip.

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