Medicare typically does not cover healthcare or prescription drug costs while traveling outside the United States. There are certain exceptions and tips to ensure your safety.
Medical Emergencies Outside of the Country
If you find yourself in a medical emergency while traveling outside of the U.S. or its territories, always go to the nearest hospital and take care of yourself. Depending whether you have a Supplement Insurance Plan, an Advantage Plan, or just Original Medicare, you have some coverage for emergency services.
Supplement Insurance Foreign Coverage
For those who have Medigap Plan like Plan G, emergency medical expenses during international travel are covered for the first 60 days. After meeting a $250 annual deductible, this plan will cover 80% of Medicare-approved services, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20%. It’s important to note that foreign travel emergency coverage under Supplement Insurance policies has a lifetime limit of $50,000.
Medicare Advantage Plans Foreign Coverage
Some Medicare Advantage plans include coverage for international travel, but the extent of this coverage can vary significantly by plan. Some plans may cover emergency services, urgent care, and certain ambulance services. It’s essential to check with your provider to understand your specific coverage, including any restrictions or guidelines.
Original Medicare Parts A and B Foreign Coverage
Original Medicare typically doesn’t cover medical care outside of the United States. It is recommended that you purchase a Supplement Insurance Policy or an International Travel Health Insurance policy if you plan to travel abroad and you are worried about your emergency healthcare options.
Purchasing International Travel Health Insurance
When traveling abroad, it’s important to consider purchasing international travel health insurance. While Medicare and many domestic health plans offer limited or no coverage outside the U.S., international travel health insurance provides protection against unexpected medical expenses while you’re away. This type of insurance typically covers emergency medical care, evacuation services, and sometimes even trip cancellations or interruptions due to health issues. Investing in a travel health insurance policy can give you peace of mind, ensuring that you’re covered no matter where your adventures take you.
Keaton Marks is the owner and CEO at HealthyMarks including the medicare team. Keaton was born and raised in Encinitas. He often rode his bike through town and to the local beaches like Moonlight. Keaton knows it is important to have a local resource, someone who understands the area, the hospitals and networks of doctors. Keaton is proud to be a local Medicare broker who is able to assist the people in his town when selecting medicare plans.
Keaton believes one thing above all else: “Medicare is confusing… but it doesn’t have to be! That is where HealthyMarks Medicare comes in” Please contact me with any questions.