Paul Sanchez
International medical insurance is a type of insurance that covers individuals and families outside of their home country. It is important to understand what your insurance covers before travelling, as the cost of medical treatment can be high. International medical insurance can cover doctor and ambulance services, inpatient hospital stays, and emergency medical evacuation. Some plans also cover prescription drugs, although this is not always the case. It is important to note that some countries may require an import license or permit for certain medications. Before purchasing international medical insurance, it is recommended to contact your regular health insurance provider to inquire about global benefits.
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What You'll Learn
International health insurance plans vary
If you are travelling, it is important to know that travel health insurance will not cover routine checkups. If you are going to a doctor for a routine checkup, you would be required to pay out of pocket and may need to submit a claim to your domestic health insurance provider. However, travel medical insurance plans usually offer more than emergency medical benefits. The plan details more closely resemble a traditional health insurance plan in that they frequently allow for routine and preventive medical visits, prescription drug benefits, and other non-emergency medical benefits. This allows you to stay healthy while travelling without worrying about expensive medical bills.
If you are an employer with international employees, part of an organized group, or involved in a non-profit agency, you may want to consider a group global medical insurance plan. IMG Global, for instance, offers a bronze plan that provides catastrophic coverage for emergency medical issues at a more affordable price.
If you are planning to live or reside abroad for a year or more, it is best to work with a licensed broker who can help you find the best policy for your specific needs. Working with a broker does not incur additional costs—it is just an additional level of service with an experienced, independent professional taking care of your needs.
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Travel insurance can cover prescriptions
When travelling, it is important to consider how your health will be covered by insurance, especially if you are a regular user of prescription medication. While Medicare and some domestic health insurance providers may offer some coverage overseas, this is not always the case, and you may need to purchase a travel insurance policy to cover your prescription medication needs.
International travel insurance is a good option for those who want peace of mind when accessing healthcare anywhere in the world. These plans usually offer more than emergency medical benefits, often including routine and preventive medical visits, prescription drug benefits, and other non-emergency benefits. This can be especially useful for those who are travelling for extended periods and need to refill their medication during their trip. It is also important to note that not all medications are standard across the world, and some may be more expensive than in your home country.
Most standard travel insurance policies do not provide coverage for prescription drugs, but there are a number of special policies that include supplemental coverage for travellers who use medication regularly. These include senior travellers, those with pre-existing medical conditions, and disabled travellers. There is usually a maximum compensation limit for medication coverage, and travellers may not receive full financial recovery if their drugs are very expensive. However, it is possible to upgrade the level of coverage to ensure adequate compensation in the event of lost or stolen medication.
Before purchasing a travel insurance plan, it is recommended that you first contact your regular health insurance provider to inquire about global benefits. It is also worth noting that the cost of travel insurance for US visitors is based on the age of the insured, the maximum of the policy, the deductible on the policy, and the number of days of the trip.
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Medicare doesn't cover prescriptions outside the US
Medicare is a fee-for-service health insurance program available to Americans aged 65 and older and some individuals with disabilities. Unfortunately, Medicare does not typically cover healthcare expenses incurred outside of the United States. This includes prescription drugs purchased abroad, which are not covered by Medicare drug plans.
There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule. For example, if you experience a medical emergency in a foreign country and the nearest hospital that can treat your condition is in that country, Medicare may cover your inpatient hospital, doctor, and ambulance services. Similarly, if you are travelling through Canada and require medical attention, Medicare may cover your expenses if you are closer to a Canadian hospital than a U.S. one. These exceptions also apply to those living in the U.S. but residing closer to a foreign hospital than a domestic one.
It is important to note that even in these exceptional cases, Medicare generally will not cover return ambulance trips home. Additionally, you will likely still be responsible for paying the same coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles that you would normally pay for similar services within the U.S.
Due to Medicare's limited coverage outside of the U.S., individuals seeking more comprehensive international coverage may consider purchasing a travel insurance policy or adding Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) to their existing plan. Medigap plans can provide coverage for emergency healthcare outside of the U.S., with specific plans tailored for travel to countries where healthcare is expensive, such as the U.S.
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Private insurance may offer coverage overseas
If your private insurance does not offer coverage overseas, you may need to purchase a separate travel insurance policy. These policies typically offer varying levels of coverage and can be purchased based on your specific needs and budget. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, medical evacuation, trip interruption, and other potential travel mishaps. It is recommended to review the different plans offered and compare their benefits before purchasing.
Additionally, some credit cards may offer travel insurance benefits that can provide coverage for medical emergencies while abroad. It is important to review your credit card benefits guide to determine if this coverage is sufficient for your needs.
When travelling internationally, it is always a good idea to bring your passport and health insurance information with you in case of any medical emergencies. By planning ahead and understanding your coverage options, you can ensure that you have the necessary protection and peace of mind during your travels.
In summary, private insurance may offer coverage overseas, but it is important to check with your insurance provider to understand the specific details of your plan. If your plan does not include international coverage, there are alternative options, such as purchasing a separate travel insurance policy or utilising travel insurance benefits offered by your credit card.
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Emergency treatment: bring your passport and insurance information
If you are travelling and need emergency medical treatment, it is important to bring your passport and insurance information with you. Your passport will be necessary for identification purposes, and your insurance information will ensure that you receive the care you need without delay.
Firstly, make sure you have your insurance card and a claim form, if your policy covers you outside of your home country. It is also worth noting that some insurance policies do not cover emergency medical evacuation back to your home country, so it is important to check this before you travel. If your insurance policy does not cover you abroad, you may want to consider purchasing a short-term health insurance policy that does.
Secondly, if you have a pre-existing medical condition, carry a letter from your primary healthcare provider describing your condition and any prescription medications you take, including their generic names. Keep your medications in their original, labelled containers and bring enough for your trip, plus a few extra days' worth in case of delays. It is also a good idea to have a copy of all your written prescriptions.
Thirdly, be aware that in some countries, entering with prescription medication may be illegal, even if the medication was legally obtained in your home country. Therefore, it is important to check with the foreign embassy of the country you are visiting to ensure that your medications are permitted. Some countries may also require an import license or permit for certain medications.
Finally, in addition to your passport and insurance information, it is helpful to have the contact information of someone to reach in case of an emergency. You can include this information on the inside of your passport. You should also consider enrolling in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service that will help family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the insurance provider and the plan. Basic plans usually cover emergency and non-emergency medical care, while additional benefits like prescription drugs may require purchasing a more comprehensive plan. It is recommended to contact your insurance provider to clarify what your plan includes.
Medicare drug plans do not cover prescription drugs purchased outside the U.S. However, Medicare supplement insurance (Medigap) policies may cover emergency care when travelling internationally.
It is important to know the limits available for a sudden recurrence of a pre-existing condition, as coverage may be lower than for a new injury or illness.
Check with the foreign embassy of the country you are visiting to make sure your medications are permitted. Some countries require an import license or permit to travel with certain medications. Bring a letter from your doctor describing your medical condition and listing any prescription drugs and their generic names.
