---
title: "Do I Need to Declare Participation in a Medical Trial?"
description: "Find out whether participation in a clinical or medical trial must be declared and how it can affect cancellation, medical cover and fitness to travel."
url: https://travel-faqs.coverforyou.com/en/articles/45-do-i-need-to-declare-participation-in-a-medical-trial
collection: "Do I need to declare my pre-existing medical condition?"
updated: 2026-10-27
language: en
---

# Do I Need to Declare Participation in a Medical Trial?

Find out whether participation in a clinical or medical trial must be declared and how it can affect cancellation, medical cover and fitness to travel.

**No.** You do not need to declare participation in a medical or clinical trial simply because you're taking part in one.

However, you must still declare any pre-existing medical conditions that require medical screening.

Participation in a medical trial can also affect certain claims, particularly if you need to cancel or cut short your holiday because of the trial.

## Do I need to declare the medical condition being studied?

**Yes, if the condition requires declaration under your policy's medical screening rules.**

If you're participating in a trial relating to an existing medical condition, you must provide accurate information about that condition during screening.

You should also answer any relevant questions about your treatment, medication or ongoing investigations accurately.

Not having to declare participation in a trial does not mean that the underlying medical condition is automatically covered.

If we can offer cover following screening, your quotation will reflect the available terms and any additional premium. Once you've purchased the policy, your declared and accepted conditions will be covered in accordance with those terms.

## Am I covered if I need to cancel my holiday because of the trial?

**No.** Under our current guidance, cancellation or curtailment arising from your participation in a medical trial is not covered.

For example, you should not expect to claim if you need to cancel or cut short your trip because you're required to attend a scheduled trial appointment.

Cancellation or curtailment for a separate insured reason will be assessed under the normal policy terms and conditions.

## What if I become unwell because of the trial?

If you experience illness or complications associated with the trial, your cover may be affected.

Whether a claim is covered will depend on:

-   Your pre-existing medical conditions and the cover accepted following screening.
    
-   The treatment involved and any applicable exclusions.
    
-   Whether you were medically fit to travel.
    
-   The terms and conditions of your policy.
    

**You should not assume that complications associated with a medical trial are automatically covered.**

Contact us before travelling if you're unsure.

## What if my doctor advises me not to travel?

You should not travel against medical advice.

If you travel against medical advice, cover under Section 2 – Medical Emergency and Repatriation Expenses and Section 8 – Cruise Cover will be affected.

If you're medically unable to travel, you may be eligible for cancellation cover under Section 1, subject to the policy conditions.

## What if I join a trial after purchasing my policy?

If joining a trial involves a change in your health, medication or medical treatment, contact us to check whether your medical information needs updating.

[What Should I Do If My Health Changes After Buying Travel Insurance?](https://travel-faqs.coverforyou.com/en/articles/168-what-should-i-do-if-my-health-changes-after-buying-travel-insurance.md)

## Who can I contact?

**Medical Screening Team:** 0203 137 8981

* * *

**Important:** All cover is subject to the policy terms, conditions, exclusions, cover limits and any applicable excess.