You’re dancing under the stars on a cruise ship in the Mediterranean. You slip on the dance floor and break your leg. You wake up in a foreign hospital. You’re fine, the leg is OK, but the pain is about to get worse. Like most Seniors you didn’t realize that Medicare doesn’t cover all that much when you’re outside the United States. Now that is Pain!
The basic rule of thumb is that Medicare and your Medicare Drug Plan stops at the ocean’s edge. That is why it is not a bad idea to consider medical travel insurance for seniors if foreign travel is something you love. Here are a few key things to keep in mind when purchasing travel insurance for seniors:
Coverage for pre-existing conditions: Make sure that the travel insurance policy you purchase covers any pre-existing medical conditions you may have. Some policies may have exclusions for certain conditions, so be sure to read the policy carefully and ask questions if you’re unsure about anything.
Medical coverage: Look for a policy that provides adequate medical coverage in case of illness or injury. This can include emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and evacuation if necessary.
Age limits: Some travel insurance policies have age limits, so make sure that you purchase a policy that covers your age.
Trip duration: Consider the length of your trip when purchasing travel insurance. Some policies have limits on the length of time they will provide coverage, so make sure that you have coverage for the entire duration.
Destination: Some policies may have exclusions or limitations for certain countries, so make sure that your destination is covered under the policy.
Claims process: Find out what the process is for making a claim under your travel insurance policy, and make sure that you understand it before you travel.
Overall, it’s important to carefully consider your individual needs and circumstances when purchasing travel insurance. It’s a good idea to contact your Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan provider to understand what is covered and what isn’t. If you travel frequently or spend extended time abroad, you might want to consider additional insurance specifically designed for travelers. Always read the fine print to understand what’s covered and the process for reimbursement if you need care.
Bon Voyage!
