We asked our health insurance expert, Erika Buck, to answer the question, “Is travel medical insurance really necessary?”. Here’s her answer!
When helping someone choose a health insurance plan, I am often asked if this coverage will extend to them when they travel abroad. The answer is usually either “maybe a little, depending on the situation” or “absolutely not”.
If you have a limiting HMO plan, coverage only extends out of network in a medical emergency in the territory. There is no coverage outside of the US.
If you have a PPO plan, the territory might (depending on the carrier) extend outside of the US, but if it does, you would need to pay the doctor or hospital out of pocket and that time, and then submit for reimbursement. The reimbursement would only apply after your out-of-network-out-of-pocket maximum was reached. This could range from $10,000-$40,000 per person depending on the plan.
I always recommend purchasing a travel medical plan in these situations, whether it be for a vacation, a student traveling abroad, or a missions trip, there are a variety of different plans tailored to protect you in your specific situation.
Travel medical plans are very inexpensive with a variety of deductible and maximum limit options. Some also offer special riders for things like evacuation coverage and coverage for extreme sports and adventures.
When an emergency happens in a country that doesn’t speak your language, panic sets in. Travel medical plans come with a dedicated customer service department to direct you in case of an emergency. They can direct you to doctor or hospital that speaks your language and practices Western medicine.
Purchasing a travel medical plan will give you invaluable peace of mind when traveling and is available for all ages. Have questions about what travel medical insurance might look for you? Contact us! Or purchase travel insurance online yourself here through our online portal.
A little more about Blue Marsh Insurance…
When he founded Blue Marsh, Tom Davenport wanted to create a different kind of insurance company. One that’s built on personal relationships and a local presence. One where you, the customer, feel more like a friend.
As an independent insurance agency, Blue Marsh Insurance represents a carefully selected group of financially strong, reputable insurance companies. Therefore, we are able to offer you the best coverage at the most competitive price.
If you’re interested in starting a quote online or having us take a look at your current policies, click here!