Will you cover me if I'm on a drug trial?

It depends on the type and phase of the drug trial, and you must tell us about your participation so we can consider it alongside your medical circumstances.


How different drug trial stages may affect cover

This article explains how different stages of a clinical drug trial may affect travel insurance and what you need to tell us before travelling.


How does the phase of a drug trial affect cover?

Drug trial stageWhat this means for travel insurance
Phase 1 to early Phase 3These are experimental stages. Treatment during these phases is usually not covered.
Late Phase 3Cover may be possible where the drug is no longer considered experimental.
Phase 4Cover can be considered where your GP is aware of your participation and supports it.
Established drug trialCover can be considered where your GP is aware of the trial and agrees with your participation.

Always make sure your GP or medical practitioner knows about and supports your participation in the drug trial.

You must also tell us that you are taking part in a drug trial so your medical information can be updated.


What is a drug trial?

A drug trial, or clinical trial, is a research study used to assess the safety and effectiveness of a medicine.

An established drug trial involves a medicine that has already been approved and used for one condition but is being tested for another. The medicine will already have been licensed by a regulator such as the MHRA or EMA.

A new drug trial involves a medicine that is still going through the approval process. Clinical trials generally progress through several phases before and after approval.

Phase 4 takes place after a medicine has been approved and is on the market. It can involve monitoring people taking the medicine or comparing it with existing treatments.


What else do I need to tell you?

You must tell us if your medical condition or medication changes before you travel. Your policy also contains restrictions relating to travelling when you know you will need medical treatment during your journey, travelling to obtain medical treatment, or travelling when you are not fit to travel.

Speak to an adviser before travelling if you are participating in a drug trial.

Eligibility, terms and exclusions apply. Please refer to your policy documents for full details.

This information is for general guidance and does not constitute medical advice.

Updated

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