Have you read the fine print on your health insurance policy? In many cases a health insurer will not pay for foreign physician treatment, or have strict exceptions. That is why it may be an extremely wise investment to purchase travel insurance for your trip out of the United States.
Health Insurance Limitations
It seems like it would be an inherent right that your health insurance should cover you wherever you need health treatment. But that is not always the case. Check your health insurance policy, or call if you are not sure, and determine if overseas health care is excluded as a paid benefit. You might be surprised to find out that only domestic health treatment is all you are getting.
Not all Coverages are Created Equal
Additionally, even some health insurers that do cover physician treatment overseas will require that you pay all expenses upfront out of pocket, and send in a claim for a partial reimbursement. Other exclusions may be a refusal to pay for pre-existing conditions, or your age may exclude you from coverage.
With a simple and inexpensive travel insurance plan you may pay only $4 to $8 per day, depending on your age, which would include up to $100,000 of medical insurance coverage. Usually there is a minimum 7-day coverage plan, but even if you are planning to travel for four weeks, your total cost would be $112 to $224. For that price you would receive care coordination, doctor’s fees, hospital expenses, and even emergency evacuation if you are injured or become sick while traveling.
Whether for business or pleasure, overseas travel comes with a bigger risk for medical treatment due to high stress situations, civil unrest, or even food or water contamination. Make sure you have the right health coverage when you take that risk overseas.
Tags: care coordination, doctor's fees, foreign physician treatment, health insurance, healthy insurance policy, hospital expenses, medical insurance coverage, overseas health care, overseas travel insurance