Common Questions about Travel Health Insurance

A Health Care Article Contributed by Lisa Stanley

Common Questions About Travel Health Insurance

There are many reasons to purchase Travel Health Insurance. Even though it is yet another cost to budget along with getting passports, booking accommodations and packing, purchasing this type of insurance brings peace of mind in case of any unforeseen event, accident or illness that might happen before or during your trip. Without this type of coverage, you are exposing yourself to enormous financial liability that you likely can not afford.

Why Should I Purchase Travel Health Insurance?

Travel Health Insurance is very important to consider when planning a trip abroad. An unexpected illness at the last minute could force you to cancel your trip, even after its been paid for.

This type of coverage protects people from losing all the money they have paid so far, for tickets, tour packages, etc. A death in your family after you arrive at your destination is not only an upsetting event but without insurance coverage could force you to have to pay out of pocket return flight fare, and the risk of losing money already paid out in preparation for the trip.

In case of an injury or illness at your destination, emergency medical travel insurance and medical evacuation insurance is covered in this plan. If you are too ill or injured to travel alone, and require medical attendants,you are covered. Prescription drugs and medical translation, accidental death and dismemberments,emergency dental,inpatient and outpatient medical costs,and repatriation are usually covered as well, depending on the carrier.

Can I Buy Travel Health Insurance For My Children?

Any one from newborn up is able to be included in a travel health insurance plan, as long as they are a U.S resident or are residing in the United States at the time of purchase. Many plans allow children under 16 years of age who have parents that have already purchased travel insurance to be covered for free. Most medical coverage, though, has provisions that require those traveling to be in good health at the time of travel.

When Should I Buy Travel Health Insurance?

Travel Insurance can be purchased any time. Remember that to be covered for a pre-existing condition, some providers have specific requirements. Most coverage will begin upon your purchase date or on your planned departure date, depending on the provider.

Why Is Trip Interruption/Cancellation Coverage Important?

Trip interruption and cancellation coverage is important because its purpose is to reimburse you for your monetary loss, should you have to cancel or interrupt your trip for any reason.

I Have Medical Insurance, Won't That Cover Me?

Many medical plans have very strict penalties when using non network doctors and facilities. Review your policy and see if there are any provisions about traveling abroad and to what extent, if any, the provider will cover. Homeowners Insurance and Rental Insurance policies have high deductibles if personal items or luggage is lost or stolen when traveling. Travel insurance has comprehensive coverage that protects you before and during your travels.