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Why Travel Insurance?
Your Current major medical plan may not provide the special coverage you need when traveling, especially overseas. For instance, the companies presented on this website offer "repatriation of remains" in some of their policies. That is, if the covered insured dies while the policy is in force, the benefit will
return the decedent's body to the country of origin. Your standard health insurance probably won't provide for repatriation, because that is not its intent.
Also, a student or employee planning to stay outside the U.S. for 6 months or longer will need international health coverage for an extended stay on foreign soil.
The insurance companies presented here have the experience and knowledge to provide the coverage needed when illness or injury suddenly strikes. Are you prepared to find a physician, clinic, drug store, or hospital in another country in a foreign language? You know how difficult it can be getting care in your own language at home. With an international travel plan, and often a single phone call, you have a silent travel companion ready to help you get the medical attention needed. But, insurance is one of those things in life which you have to buy before you need it. So, be certain your trip insurance plan's effective date is prior to your departure date.
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What About Medicare
A Medicare beneficiary covered under parts A and B, (and as of 01/01/2006, Part D), has limited coverage in Canada and Mexico. Most Medicare coverage stops at the U.S. border. Even a Medicare supplement plan offers little, if any coverage, because such plans pay based only on what Medicare pays. In other words, you're going to need an international travel plan to fill the gap in coverage. The insurance companies represented here have designed policies to provide the coverage needed for those over age 65. I realize the premiums are higher in that age bracket. So, consider selecting a higher deductible with the shortest benefit period to meet your needs. |
 | Which Plan Is Best For Me?
You, your employer, or group's leader, have plenty of plans from which to choose. It depends on how clearly you have determined your type of coverage, length of benefit period, risk exposure and premium budget. Review the products and plans available, download the brochure, or get a quote online for the coverage which most closely matches your needs. If you are a young, healthy person enrolled to work or study overseas, your biggest risk is probably an accident. So, look for a plan with a high deductible which may be waived for an accident. Even though you're healthy, be certain there is sickness coverage just in case it's needed. |
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OK. I'm Sold. What Now?
First, assure yourself the company selected has a good financial rating. The companies represented here are rated B or better. Second, study the brochure and plan details to determine its suitability for your needs. Third, read the policy exclusions and note pre-existing condition limitations. Fourth, be certain you meet age and residency eligibility requirements. Fifth, verify website security by looking for "s" in the https: url and a padlock icon on the screen. Complete the application online and answer all questions fully. Provide details on health history where requested. Be sure to note effective date rules. Remember to sign as the applicant/insured, and include spouse and over-age dependents signatures where required. Sixth, calculate the premium including policy fees, rider costs, and extra pro-rata daily coverage, if applicable. Note billing options and billing address. Finally, submit the application online. Include premium only if permitted in the application instructions.
In Conclusion
It's a big world out there, but it doesn't have to be scary. Obtain some peace of mind for yourself by using my services and this website to assure yourself the integrity of your health and well being. Presented on another page are some links to travel resources on the Internet. Whether or not you get coverage via my agency, please send me a postcard from your destination.
Here are my Travel Rs:
Respect laws, customs, and cultures of the lands you visit. Repay acts of kindness with those of your own. Remember who and what you have seen. Record your travel experience in photos and words to share with others. Review all your insurance coverage with me for its adequacy to protect you against loss. Relax and enjoy. Reset your watch from time to time. Return safe and sound.
Be safe. Travel Safely.
Robert M. Coleman, The Insurance Man
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