Haris Ashley
Travel medical insurance is a must-have for anyone travelling, whether domestically or abroad. It protects you from the financial burden of unexpected illnesses, injuries, and accidents, and provides emergency medical coverage, including medical evacuations. Some countries even require you to purchase travel health insurance to gain entry. When choosing a travel insurance plan, it is important to carefully read the terms and conditions to ensure that it meets your specific needs and covers any pre-existing medical conditions. This includes checking whether your plan includes benefits for international medical expenses, medical evacuations, and trip cancellations. By selecting the right travel medical insurance plan, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that you are protected against unforeseen events and their associated costs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Protects you in the event of an illness or injury when traveling outside of your country of residence. |
| Coverage | Emergency medical expenses, including medical evacuations, ambulance or airlift services, hospitalization, surgeries, physician office visits, prescription medications, dental costs, and trip cancellations. |
| Cost | Travel medical insurance plans typically start at a minimum medical expense limit of $100,000 and allow for a maximum of $1,000,000. |
| Multi-trip coverage | Multi-trip coverage is more cost-effective if you travel frequently and don't want to purchase a single policy for each trip. However, it requires primary medical insurance coverage in the U.S. |
| Pre-existing conditions | Declare any pre-existing medical conditions to your insurer, as they may be excluded from coverage or included at an extra cost. |
| Country requirements | Some countries may require you to purchase travel health insurance to gain entry. For example, Schengen countries require visa applicants to have insurance covering expenses for repatriation, urgent medical attention, and emergency hospital treatment. |
| Language barriers | Provides assistance in navigating a foreign healthcare system and overcoming language and currency barriers. |
| High-quality medical care | Ensures access to high-quality medical care in destinations where it may be lacking. |
| Safety | Provides protection in the event of unforeseen events such as car accidents, natural disasters, or political unrest. |
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What You'll Learn
Understanding what your existing insurance covers
It is important to carefully review the terms of your existing insurance policy to determine if it includes any travel medical benefits. Even if your primary insurance plan covers emergencies abroad, it is unlikely to include reimbursement for other travel-related expenses such as trip cancellations, delays, or baggage loss. Stand-alone travel medical insurance can provide this additional coverage, protecting your financial investment and offering peace of mind.
If your existing insurance includes travel medical benefits, it is essential to understand the specific details of this coverage. Check whether the coverage is primary or secondary. Primary coverage can be used immediately to cover medical bills, while secondary coverage only provides reimbursement after exhausting your existing insurance policies. Additionally, understand the limits and exclusions of your coverage, including any restrictions related to pre-existing conditions or routine medical care.
When reviewing your existing insurance, consider the scope of your travel plans. If you are travelling to a remote location, ensure your coverage includes emergency evacuations to access appropriate medical care. If you are travelling with family, confirm whether your coverage extends to your accompanying family members or includes trip cancellation benefits if they fall ill. Understanding these details will help you identify any gaps in your existing coverage and determine the additional protection you may need through travel medical insurance.
By thoroughly understanding your existing insurance coverage, you can make informed decisions about your travel medical insurance needs. This knowledge will enable you to choose a policy that complements your current coverage, ensuring you have comprehensive protection during your travels. Remember to carefully review the terms and conditions of any insurance plan you consider to make an informed choice.
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Knowing when to buy travel insurance
Firstly, it's recommended to purchase travel insurance as soon as possible after booking your trip. This ensures you don't forget and gives you the largest possible coverage window. It also means you can relax and enjoy the planning process, knowing you're protected.
Secondly, you'll need to know some key details about your trip before buying travel insurance. This includes your destination, dates of travel, and the cost of your trip. Knowing the cost is important as it will impact the type of insurance you choose and the quote you receive. You'll also want to consider any specific activities or risks you may encounter during your trip to ensure you have the right coverage.
Thirdly, if you have pre-existing medical conditions, be aware that many policies have a cutoff point for this benefit. For example, some plans require you to purchase insurance within 14 days of making your first trip payment to be eligible for coverage for pre-existing conditions.
Additionally, if you're looking for trip cancellation insurance, it's best to purchase this after making at least one payment towards your trip. This ensures you have some money at risk and can be reimbursed if needed.
Finally, keep in mind that travel insurance is for unforeseen events. If there are already known threats to your travel, such as hurricanes or airline strikes, these may not be covered by your policy.
In summary, the best time to buy travel insurance is as soon as possible after booking your trip, but be sure to consider your unique needs, the type of trip you're taking, and any time-sensitive benefits you may require.
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How to choose the right plan
When choosing a travel medical insurance plan, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to keep in mind when selecting the right plan:
Purpose of Your Travel
Consider whether you are travelling for business, pleasure, or both. Some plans are specifically designed for international business travellers who need reliable access to high-quality healthcare and personalized services. If you're travelling for leisure, you can choose a plan that suits your vacation plans, such as single- or multi-trip coverage. Single-trip coverage is ideal if you're taking a single international trip and returning home, while multi-trip coverage allows for multiple international trips within a specified period.
Your Health and Medical History
Consider your current health status and any pre-existing medical conditions. While some plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, others, like the Atlas Journey Elevate plan, offer coverage if you purchase the insurance within a certain timeframe and are medically cleared to travel. Additionally, if you're travelling to regions with a high risk of infections, ensure your plan covers recommended vaccines.
Your Destination and Activities
Research your destination to understand the specific requirements and risks. Some countries, like Aruba, Costa Rica, and the United Arab Emirates, require proof of travel medical insurance for entry. Additionally, consider the activities you plan to engage in. If you're embarking on adventurous activities or travelling to regions with political unrest, ensure your plan covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation.
Level of Coverage
Determine the level of coverage you require. This includes understanding the coverage limits, deductibles, and whether the plan is primary or secondary coverage. Primary coverage allows you to file a claim with your travel insurance company first, while secondary coverage requires you to submit a claim to your primary insurance provider first, which may result in delays. Choose a plan that offers sufficient coverage for emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and other benefits like trip cancellation or lost baggage protection.
Cost and Budget
Travel medical insurance plans vary in cost, and it's important to select one that fits within your budget. Consider the premiums, deductibles, and coverage limits to ensure you're getting the best value for your needs. Remember that the cost of the plan should be weighed against the potential expenses you could incur without insurance.
Remember, the right travel medical insurance plan will provide you with peace of mind and allow you to focus on enjoying your trip, knowing that you're protected in case of any unforeseen events or medical emergencies.
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What to do if you have a pre-existing medical condition
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it is important to be transparent when applying for travel insurance. Not declaring your medical conditions could result in your policy being voided, and any claims you need to make being rejected.
A pre-existing medical condition is any injury, illness, or medical concern that has included examinations, treatments, or a change in prescribed medication within 60 to 180 days of purchasing a travel insurance policy. This does not have to be a formally diagnosed condition, and it could be an ongoing condition or one you have been treated for in the past. It is important to note that different insurance companies have different definitions of pre-existing medical conditions, so always check with your insurance provider.
To ensure you are covered, you will need to select a plan that offers a Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver and meet the specified conditions. This waiver lifts the exclusion of pre-existing conditions for travel insurance medical claims and related coverage. With the exclusion waiver, a travel insurance company cannot examine your recent medical records when reviewing a medical-related claim.
To qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be medically fit to travel when you purchase the policy.
- You must insure your full non-refundable trip costs, including airfare, hotel reservations, tour bookings, and any other non-refundable costs.
- You must buy coverage at the time of your first trip deposit or within 14 to 21 days of making your initial deposit. The timeframe varies by company, so check the fine print on the insurance provider's website.
- The amount of coverage must be equal to all prepaid, non-refundable costs.
If you meet the eligibility requirements for a waiver, the insurance company will not charge extra for it, and there is typically no age limit for getting the exclusion waiver.
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What to do if you get sick while travelling
Falling ill while travelling can be a scary experience, especially if you are in a foreign country. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for and handle such a situation:
Before Your Trip:
- Get Travel Medical Insurance: This is essential, as it provides coverage for emergency medical expenses and evacuations while abroad. Some countries even require travel health insurance for entry. Check with your current insurance provider about your coverage while travelling, as it may be limited or non-existent. If necessary, purchase a standalone travel medical insurance plan or a comprehensive travel insurance plan that includes medical coverage.
- Know Your Blood Type: Knowing your blood type is crucial, especially when travelling to countries with unreliable blood screening systems. In such cases, blood transfusions can increase the risk of infections like hepatitis B or HIV.
- Carry Essential Documents: Bring your health insurance ID card and a claim form. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, carry a letter from your doctor describing the condition and any prescription medications you require. Also, ensure your passport has the contact information of an emergency contact.
- Bring Medications: Pack enough medications for your trip, and keep them in their original, clearly labelled containers. Be aware that some medications may be considered illegal in certain countries, so check with the foreign embassy before travelling.
- Enroll in STEP: Consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service provided by the Bureau of Consular Affairs. This program can provide assistance and support if you encounter problems while abroad.
During Your Trip:
- Contact Your Insurance Provider: If you fall ill or encounter a medical emergency, contact your insurance company immediately. They can advise you on the next steps, direct you to appropriate medical facilities, and coordinate any necessary evacuations.
- Seek Medical Assistance: Depending on the severity of your illness, you may need to visit a local clinic or hospital. Consular officers at the US embassy or consulate can also help you find medical assistance and notify your family or friends if needed.
- Understand Common Health Risks: Be aware of potential health risks associated with your destination, such as infectious diseases spread by insects, food or water-borne illnesses, sun exposure, or accidents. Taking preventive measures and understanding the risks can help reduce the likelihood of illness or injury.
- Practice Good Hygiene and Safety: To minimize the risk of illness, maintain good personal hygiene, wash your hands frequently, and avoid close contact with sick individuals. When engaging in adventure activities, wear protective gear, and always be cautious around water.
- Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about the local area's health risks and natural disasters. The CDC website offers valuable information and tips for travellers, helping you prepare for potential health hazards and emergencies.
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Frequently asked questions
Travel medical insurance provides reimbursement for emergency medical expenses incurred while travelling. These include emergency medical and dental costs, medical evacuations, ambulance or airlift services, and prescription medications. It is meant to protect you in case of an emergency and does not provide coverage for routine expenses.
Travel medical insurance is important because many domestic health insurance plans do not cover you when you are travelling abroad. Even if they do, the coverage is often limited and requires you to pay upfront, collect receipts, and file for reimbursement upon returning home. This can result in high out-of-pocket medical expenses, especially in the case of an emergency.
Before selecting a travel medical insurance plan, carefully read the terms of the insurance policy to make sure it fits your needs. Check that the plan includes coverage for emergency medical services, medical evacuations, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Additionally, ensure that the insurance company has a 24-hour contact line for easy accessibility while travelling.
