Why You Should Always Have Travel Medical Coverage When Traveling Abroad

Travel medical insurance not only protects travelers from unforeseen medical expenses, but also can keep a trip from turning into a disastrous experience when individuals learn that many health insurance plans, including Medicare, will not cover treatment outside of the United States. Even individuals who have health plans that cover participants overseas as long as they visit an affiliated network hospital may find that language barriers prevent the local ambulance drivers from taking them to an affiliated hospital.

Evacuation coverage, which includes getting the insured from a remote location to the nearest medical treatment facility in an emergency, is essential for travelers visiting areas accessible only by foot or other adventure travel locations. Travelers should check with their insurer; medical is usually covered only if it is deemed medically necessary. Policies may not cover dangerous activities, including cliff jumping and rock climbing.

Travel medical coverage provides trip protection for individuals visiting countries where it may be difficult to find an English speaking person to provide information about the nearest hospital or directions to a local doctor’s office. A call to the insurance company typically will provide information regarding the location of appropriate medical care. Insurance providers will recommend medical facilities providing the best care as well.

Travel medical expense coverage is generally quite affordable. Insurance companies base their premiums on the traveler’s age, coverage limits and the length of the trip. Long term overseas emergency medical insurance is available for individuals involved in foreign aid or missionary work. Ascertain if coverage excludes emergency treatment for pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or asthma, or if the company offers pre-existing condition coverage.

Medical travel insurance typically covers dental care necessary after an accident, such as a broken tooth from a fall on a cobblestone street; however, insurance will not cover a visit to the dentist for a toothache.

Travel medical insurance is not only trip protection against the expenses relating to an unforeseen accident or illness, but also protection against the stress of finding appropriate care in a foreign country. For example, travelers who enjoy absorbing the local culture and eating food from street vendors may find themselves with a bad case of food poisoning, and without medical travel insurance, they may let it run its course. With insurance, they could call their provider, locate treatment and even arrange for medical transport if necessary and get back to their holiday. Therefore, emergency medical insurance for overseas travelers is essential for keeping a vacation from being ruined by an emergency illness or injury.