Recently a member of our Client Advisory Board suggested that we inform you about some of the pitfalls and problems of medical insurance coverage while traveling abroad. As travel season has arrived, we hope this is useful information. These sites provide more information: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1470.html

http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1215.html

Insurance, Medicare & Medicaid, Medical Evacuation
U.S. medical insurance is generally not accepted outside the U.S., nor do Social Security Medicare programs provide coverage for hospital or medical costs abroad. Obtaining medical treatment and hospital care abroad can be expensive, and medical evacuation to the U.S. can cost more than $50,000. 

Short-term travel policy
If your insurance policy does not cover you abroad, consider purchasing a short-term policy that does. There are health insurance policies designed specifically to cover travel.  Many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations. Some of the companies offering short-term health and emergency assistance policies are listed on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website (http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1470.html).

Help in an emergency
If you or another American citizen you are traveling with becomes seriously ill or injured abroad, a U.S. consular officer can assist in locating appropriate medical services and informing family or friends. If necessary, a consular officer can also assist in the transfer of funds from the United States. However, payment of hospital and other expenses is the responsibility of the traveler.

Find out what medical services your health insurance will cover overseas. If you do have coverage outside the U.S., carry both your insurance policy identity card as proof of such insurance and a claim form. Although many health insurance companies will pay "customary and reasonable" hospital costs abroad, very few will pay for medical evacuation back to the United States.

Also, be certain to complete the information page on the inside of your passport providing the name, address and telephone number of someone to be contacted in an emergency.

U.S. embassies and consulates abroad maintain lists of hospitals and physicians. Visit U.S. Embassy and Consulate web sites around the world at http://usembassy.state.gov/

Bon Voyage! Enjoy the summer and travel safely!