Unfortunately, accidents happen and illness strikes even if you are on vacation. According to the U.S Department of State, before you travel abroad, find out if your medical coverage is effective in other countries and if you have emergency care benefits outside the United States.
Significance
Planning international travel or relocation is exciting. Study abroad is an enticing idea for students, but planning for health care coverage in other countries should not be overlooked. Keep in mind that Medicare and Medicaid benefits are not available for services received outside the United States. If you are covered by a private health plan, or if you have medical insurance from your employer, your benefits likely apply to U.S. providers only. Before embarking on extended international travel, call member services at your health plan and ask if your plan will cover treatment for an accident, injury or illness sustained when you are outside the United States.
Considerations
In some countries, doctors and hospitals may expect payment in full immediately following your treatment. Your insurance card will be of little value in these instances. Health coverage laws differ from country to country, and while it is illegal to deny emergency care in the United States based on ability to pay, you may be denied emergency care in other countries if you are unable to pay in cash. If you need medical care in a country with socialized medicine, full services may be unavailable to nonresidents.
Types
There are three types of international medical insurance. The first type of traveler's medical insurance provides short-term coverage for health care services you require when traveling abroad. This type of policy is useful for vacations and brief trips. The second type of coverage is designed for students. If your daughter is studying abroad for a semester, you can purchase insurance for her while she is living in a foreign country. Finally, if you intend to reside in another country for an extended period, look into purchasing health insurance policies designed for expatriates. The U.S. Department of State's website provides a list of companies that sell different types of international medical insurance. Speak to your local insurance broker, who may be able to provide more information about companies in your area.
Coverage
When considering international medical policies, look for one that covers any pre-existing conditions you have. If you are traveling, coverage for returning home in case of accident or illness is important as is coverage for activities you are planning to enjoy on your trip. Determine if the coverage you are interested in will pay international doctors and hospitals directly, and if you need pre-authorization or referrals before consuming care.
Most schools and universities require foreign students to carry local medical insurance effective in their country. Sometimes, coverage can be purchased through the school where your son intends to study, but explore other options as well. Study abroad programs have advisers ready to assist parents. Talk with your student's advisers to learn what works best for his school and destination country.
You may also purchase dental and catastrophic international medical coverage. If you need to be airlifted back to your home country, or if you need dental care while traveling or living abroad, these options are useful. These extended programs are useful additions to your basic medical coverage.
Cost
The cost for your coverage may be less than what you pay in the United States because health care is usually less expensive in other countries. Your premiums will be based on your age, gender, coverage type chosen and inflation. If you are living abroad and intend to visit the United States or Canada for longer than six months, it is important to have international medical coverage during your stay.
When shopping for insurance, make sure you purchase a plan that will cover your care in your destination country. Some websites with information about international medical coverage offer cost calculators that can compare the prices of different coverage options. These tools can help you choose the plan that is right for you. Visit the U.S. Department of State's website to see a list of resources. Talk with your local insurance agent for additional suggestions. If you are traveling or vacationing with a group, ask your travel planner for suggestions. Many have extensive international experience and can provide anecdotal information about past encounters with the international medical care system. They can help you understand what works and what to avoid.
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