Alarming Data On Health Care Abroad For American Travelers, What You Need To Know.

A surprising number of Americans are unclear about the cost of medical care when traveling. A 2017 survey from InsureMyTrip, the authority on travel insurance, found  that many travelers are unclear whether their domestic health insurance works  outside the US.  Thirty-five percent polled were not sure whether their domestic health  insurance plan would cover any doctor or hospital visits while traveling  out of the country. Thirty-five percent said it would provide coverage, while thirty percent  believed their domestic health insurance plan would offer no coverage.  So, what's the right answer? It's complicated. Big insurance providers like Blue Cross and Blue Shield,  Cigna, Aetna may provide emergency and urgent care coverage abroad. However, the definition of emergency varies. Medicare will rarely pay for inpatient hospital, doctor, or ambulance services  you get in a foreign country. Travelers can request clarification of coverage prior to departure. Here’s how: Call your medical insurance provider Ask to review your certificate of coverage for explanation of benefits Ask for hospitals and doctors in area of travel (see a full list of detailed questions) What about emergency medical evacuations? According to the US State Department, very few health insurance companies will  pay for a medical evacuation back to the United States, which can easily cost  up to $100,000, or even more, depending on your condition and location. Travel smart In addition to seeking proper medical protection, travelers can also reduce health risks by learning about destination-specific medical concerns, including required vaccinations.  The US State Department is a helpful resource. The US Federal Consumer Action Handbook also provides travel insurance recommendations for travelers (Source: USAGov in Technology Transformation Service, General Services Administration).