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A Buyer's Guide to Medical Insurance
Buying travel health insurance can be a complex
task. There are so many different plans - each with different benefits
and restrictions.
It is important to shop wisely for trip
insurance. Many people buy coverage that seems inexpensive only to find
out that they are not adequately covered when a medical emergency
occurs. Below are a few key questions you should ask your insurance
provider before purchasing trip insurance:
 | What is not covered by the policy?
Insurance companies call these "exclusions," and every
policy has them. |
| Are there specific
exclusions relating to sports or other activities? |
| Does the plan have a
deductible that you must pay each time you file a claim?
|
| Does the plan deny benefits if
your medical emergency arises because of a "pre-existing
condition or health problem”? |
Knowing the answers to these questions can help
you avoid unpleasant surprises when you make a claim. Make sure you
understand exactly what your trip insurance plan covers. When in doubt,
call your insurer. A reputable insurance company can give you straight
answers to your questions. Most offer toll free numbers so you can call
them directly from wherever you are.
If you find that a plan has too many
restrictions and complications, or that your questions are not being
answered satisfactorily, do not hesitate to look somewhere else.
A comprehensive travel health insurance plan
usually covers the following emergency medical expenses:
| Hospital accommodations
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| Medical bills such as those for a physician,
surgeon, and anesthetist
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| Ambulances
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| Diagnostic services such as laboratory tests
and x-rays |
| Private registered nurses
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| Medical aids such as slings or splints, and
the temporary rental of wheelchairs or walkers |
| Prescription drugs
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| Cost of returning a deceased back home
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