Senior travelers reach all corners of the globe on leisure, business and educational trips. But, they need to know that Medicare DOES NOT cover them outside the U.S. Some Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans do include some coverage outside the country, but it is limited.  That’s why a Travel Medical policy is important.

Those on Medicare should be extra cautious to select a travel insurance plan that offers full coverage while they are away from home, particularly if they have pre-existing conditions.

Differences in senior travel insurance policies

The best travel insurance plans cover physician office visits, hospitalization, surgery, ambulance services, and prescription medications for urgent care, as well as emergencies. The premier plans make it a point to cover sickness or injury resulting from a pre-existing medical condition. Some policies even pay medical providers overseas on a direct basis so you can avoid having to pay the bill and deal with filing a claim.

By contrast, the Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans that offer foreign travel benefits only cover emergency care. They have a $250 deductible, and you pay 20% coinsurance up to a $50,000 lifetime maximum. That is very little for hospitalization or surgery in many cities.

Some policies have limits on coverage for those over certain ages. There are policies that offer seniors better protection and better pricing. Contact us to find out more.