Health Insurance and Travel - Are You Covered?:
Before taking off on your next vacation it is important to find out if your health insurance will provide you with coverage while you are away. Don't wait for an accident or illness overseas before finding out that your insurance company doesn't provide coverage in all areas.
Whether you are traveling to another state or another continent, here are some important points to consider before you leave:
1. Have you checked with your health insurance company six months before you plan to travel?
If you do find out that your current health insurance company does not provide coverage in other countries, you will need to allow yourself plenty of time to either purchase supplemental insurance or a new health insurance policy. Six months will allow you enough time to go through the application and approval process, as well as any waiting periods that may be required.
2. What kind of procedures are covered for travel?
If your health insurance company only provides coverage for specific procedures, it is important to find out your options ahead of time. For example, will a trip to the emergency room, transportation to a hospital or emergency surgery be covered?
3. Do you have a copy of your insurance policy to take with you?
Before traveling, make sure that you have a current copy of your insurance policy and any necessary documentation with you. These documents will need to make the trip with you, just in case something should happen. You will also need to make sure that you have your insurance cards available as well. It is also a good idea to leave copies of this information with a relative or friend who will not be traveling with you.
4. Does your insurance company require notice before travel?
You will need to see if your insurance company requires pre-authorization for procedures that occur overseas. Keep in mind time differences, as this can be a hindrance in many countries. You do not want to have to wait for your insurance company to respond when you need an emergency operation.
5. Do you have an HMO?
If you are covered by an HMO health insurance plan, this means that you are required to stay within your network of physicians. This network may not exist in your country of destination, which means that any procedures you may need may not be covered. This can also affect you even if you are traveling to another state.
6. Do you have Medicare?
Medicare coverage is only effective while you are in the United States. If you have a Medigap policy, you may be able to get coverage while traveling, but there may be time limits, depending on the health insurance company.
By taking the time to make sure you will be covered in the event of an accident or illness, you can fully enjoy your vacation free of worry about your health insurance coverage.