The universal healthcare debate occurring in the United States often raises questions about similar programs employed internationally. But what Americans traveling abroad may not realize is that the coverage available to citizens of other countries may not also be available to them. Additionally, U.S. citizens living abroad or traveling internationally may find that their current insurance policy has many limitations in regards to what sort of coverage they’re allowed overseas. With that in mind, it’s a great idea to buy an international insurance policy whenever living internationally or traveling abroad for an extended period.
The health insurance programs offered in the country you’re visiting may be robust for citizens of that country, but the same level of coverage may not be available to you. If you’re traveling for a short period of time, contact your medical insurance representative to see how your current plan may be modified or supplemented to cover your international insurance needs.
But if you’re planning to live internationally, you’ll want to look into a special policy. To ensure you can receive the best possible medical care during your residency abroad, you may want to purchase a plan like the Citizen Secure Insurance plan. With the backing of Lloyds of London, travelers can feel secure in the knowledge that no matter what may occur on their trip or short-term residency, they’ll have access to all the medical care they may need.
Check with your insurance plan representative for specifics regarding plan eligibility for your international health insurance policy, as each plan has its own rules and regulations. For example, the Citizen Secure International plan will allow anyone aged– days to 74 years to be eligible for coverage, and it also dictates that the policyholder be residing internationally for at least a six month term.
These types of plans offer more comprehensive coverage, often including issues like mental health and even transplants. Additionally, when selecting plans for longer-term stays, you may want to consider the area you’re residing in, as supplemental evacuation coverage can be added to these policies. International health insurance can be the difference between getting the high-level care you deserve during a personal or national emergency.
Other considerations include travelers assistance features like locating lost luggage, establishing communication with family and colleagues in the event of a catastrophe, and obtaining emergency fund transfers. These are significant value-adds to these very comprehensive insurance policies.
The more actively-inclined policyholder will also be able to obtain sports coverage as a part of the program. Extreme sports activities like hang-gliding carry significant risk, but these insurance policies offer some degree of peace of mind when participating in them.
For short-term travelers, international health insurance should be a strong consideration. If you’re going to live abroad for a period exceeding six months, it’s a necessity. Think about where you?ll be staying, for how long, and what sort of activities you’ll engage in, and you?ll be well-prepared to find the perfect plan.
Ray Sondeo often writes about international insurance.