The universal healthcare debate occurring in the United States often raises questions about similar programs employed internationally. But what Americans traveling abroad may not realize is that the coverage available to citizens of other countries may not also be available to them. Additionally, U.S. citizens living abroad or traveling internationally may find that their current insurance policy has many limitations in regards to what sort of coverage they’re allowed overseas. With that in mind, it’s a great idea to buy an international insurance policy whenever living internationally or traveling abroad for an extended period.
Even if the country you’re visiting has a superior nationalized healthcare program, you may not be able to participate in it as a visitor. For trips lasting less than a few months, be sure to educate yourself on what sort of international insurance coverage you’ll need to ensure that you’ll be secure in the event of an unforeseen medical event.
If you’re planning to live in a foreign country for six months or more, you’ll definitely want to buy a special insurance policy like the Citizen Secure Insurance plan. A plan like this one, which is backed by Lloyds of London, ensures that your international medical care needs will be covered in most any situation.
Every international insurance policy has its own guidelines regarding eligibility, so it’s a good idea to have a conversation around that topic with your provider. For example, the Citizen Secure plan mentioned in the prior paragraph offers insurance coverage to people from ages– days to 74 years, and it also carries with it the stipulation that the bearer must reside abroad for a six month minimum.
Because these plans approach your coverage needs from a long term perspective, they tend to be more comprehensive, even offering coverage for items like transplants and mental healthcare. Another benefit you may want to include in your plan, depending on where you’ll be residing, is supplemental evacuation care. If you’re living in an area that is at risk for violence or natural disasters, then your investment in international health insurance may be the deciding factor in securing the best medical care.
The Citizens Secure International policy and others like it offer additional features beyond medical assistance. These may include features like travelers assistance, which includes help with locating baggage lost during your travels, wiring funds electronically and contacting family, friends, and colleagues should communication be hindered by an emergency.
You can also tailor your plan to meet the nuances of your lifestyle. For example, supplemental sports coverage is offered through the Citizen Secure insurance plan, so that if your stay involves high-risk sports activities like mountain climbing, you can purchase additional superior coverage.
Short-term travelers would be wise to consider investing in international health insurance, and people living internationally for periods lasting six months or up should consider it an essential purchase. A number of plans are available with the right specific coverage features for you, so determine the length of your stay, the activities you’ll participate in, the region you’ll stay in, and you can find the perfect plan.
Ray Sondeo often writes about international insurance.
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