A grandfather from the UK is currently stranded in a foreign hospital due to a mistake in his insurance coverage, preventing further medical assistance. Brian Ackroyd, aged 65, sustained severe injuries including a fractured neck, skull, and brain bleeds after a fall on the initial day of his vacation in Dubrovnik, Croatia. Despite being admitted to a local hospital and later to a neurology ward, his treatment has reached a standstill.
His family is now urgently seeking help to bring him back to the United Kingdom. Doctors in Dubrovnik have advised that Brian requires intensive treatment in the UK due to the severity of his injuries. The insurance issue arose as Brian failed to disclose his recent GP visit and his type two diabetes when applying for coverage with Admiral. Consequently, the insurance was deemed void, leaving his family struggling to cover the costs of a medical flight home.
Brian’s son, Richard, explained that his father’s injuries were unrelated to his medical history, emphasizing the unfairness of the insurance company’s decision. Despite receiving a goodwill payment from Admiral, it falls short of the expenses required for a medical evacuation. Brian’s family has expressed frustration over the situation, highlighting the challenges they face in bringing him back for proper rehabilitation.
Brian, a former truck driver who had to retire due to health issues, has been in a dire situation as he continues to deteriorate without access to necessary rehabilitation facilities. The family has turned to crowdfunding for financial support, with donations exceeding £9,000 to date. Despite ongoing efforts from assistance groups, the insurance company remains adamant about not fulfilling the claim, adding to the family’s distress.
Admiral, in response to the situation, expressed regret over Mr. Ackroyd’s injuries and offered financial aid as a gesture of goodwill. They clarified that undisclosed medical conditions were not the sole reason for the claim denial but did not elaborate further on the decision-making process. The family continues to navigate the challenges of bringing Brian back to the UK for essential care amidst financial and insurance setbacks.
