Does Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO cover international travel?

Asked by: Zoie Zemlak  |  Last update: January 5, 2026
Score: 4.9/5 (27 votes)

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan has you covered worldwide. If you need medical care outside the U.S, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands you can rest assured that the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan offers worldwide coverage.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover you in another country?

As a Blue Cross and Blue Shield member, you take your healthcare benefits with you when you are abroad. Through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core program, you have access to doctors and hospitals around the world.

Does my health insurance cover me when I travel internationally?

Generally, most domestic health insurance policies are not accepted abroad, so there is a benefit to purchasing travel medical insurance as a supplement to your health insurance coverage. The travel medical coverage is only valid while you're traveling.

Does Anthem Blue Cross PPO cover international travel?

**Note: Global coverage is available to HMO and PPO members for urgent and emergency services ONLY! You will have to pay out of pocket and then be reimbursed once you file a claim when you return home. If you have any questions, please contact SISC Anthem Customer Service at 800-825-5541.

How does Blue Cross Blue Shield Global work?

Through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core program, you have access to doctors, hospitals and other health services in nearly 200 countries and territories around the world. Call the Service Center in these situations: You need to locate a doctor or hospital or need medical services.

How GeoBlue Works - Why International Trips Need True International Coverage

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Where does Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance work?

BCBS understands and answers the needs of local communities, while providing nationwide health care coverage for 115 million members in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Nationwide, more than 1.7 million doctors and hospitals contract with BCBS companies — more than any other insurer.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan cover international travel?

Through the Overseas Assistance Center, members are covered when working or traveling overseas. We have more than 13,000 providers who participate in our overseas network, including hospitals, clinics, doctors and specialists.

Does Federal Blue Cross Blue Shield cover international travel for international?

If you need medical care outside the U.S, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands you can rest assured that the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan offers worldwide coverage. Through the Overseas Assistance Center, you're covered when working or traveling overseas.

Is there international travel insurance?

Protect your Trip with Allianz Travel Insurance Now!

Allianz travel insurance covers many incidents, whether you're travelling domestically or internationally. The convenience of online purchases for Allianz Travel Easy makes this comprehensive protection just a few clicks away.

What is the difference between travel insurance and international health insurance?

International health insurance is designed to provide a comprehensive level of health care to those relocating from their home country for a sustained period of time, whereas travel insurance provides cover for emergency treatment while you are in another country for a shorter space of time.

What happens if I get sick in a foreign country?

Special care if you become ill or injured while traveling

Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a list of local healthcare providers and medical facilities. If your illness is serious, consular officers can help you find medical assistance. If you want, they can inform your family and friends.

Do I need to tell insurance about going abroad?

Your motor insurance certificate. Your insurer may ask to be told when you're going abroad and only provide third party cover when you do. An International Driving Permit when necessary.

What countries are not covered by travel insurance?

Excluded Countries
  • Afghanistan.
  • Belarus.
  • Burkina Faso.
  • North Korea.
  • Crimea.
  • Cuba.
  • Haiti.
  • Iran.

Can I use my US health insurance abroad?

U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas. Private U.S. insurance policies also might not cover any or all expenses. Check with your insurance before traveling to see if it provides coverage overseas. More information is also available on the CDC insurance page.

Is Blue Cross Blue Shield across the US?

With 33 independent, community-based and locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) health insurance companies, we offer personalized health care across the country.

How do I get Blue Cross Blue Shield to approve Wegovy?

Prior authorizations (PAs) are required by some prescription insurance plans to cover certain medications. Your health care provider will need to submit a form to your insurance company to seek approval for Wegovy®. You can reach out to your health care provider's office and request that they initiate a PA.

How much does international travel medical insurance cost?

International Travel Medical Insurance Premium Plans

The Atlas Travel Premium® travel medical insurance policy from WorldTrips starts as low as $0.70* per day, or $4.90* for one full week of coverage. The maximum possible premium is $30.71** per day, or $214.97** for a full week of coverage.

Do I need my insurance card when traveling internationally?

Carry your insurance card and a claim form if your policy covers you outside the United States. Medicare does not cover medical care when you travel the United States. Visit Medicare.gov for more information. Some health insurance companies pay for “customary and reasonable” hospital costs abroad.

What is international travel insurance plan?

International Comprehensive Plan

Travel cover for overseas medical and dental emergencies, plus inclusions for unforeseen cancellations and lost/stolen valuables. 24-hour emergency assistance. 21 day cooling off period1. Overseas medical/dental expenses. COVID-19 benefits.

Can I use my Blue Cross Blue Shield in another country?

As a Blue Cross and Blue Shield member, you take your healthcare benefits with you when you are abroad. Through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core program, you have access to doctors and hospitals around the world.

Is Blue Cross Blue Shield Basic a PPO?

The Basic plan from BC Life & Health is a PPO that covers you for hospital care and other expensive health services.

How do I know if I have international health coverage?

So, the best way to find out whether your health insurance covers international travel is to contact your insurance provider.

Does BCBS Basic cover overseas travel?

Am I covered overseas? Yes, your Service Benefit Plan coverage protects you around the world. Benefits for covered services under FEP Blue Focus®, FEP Blue Basic™ and FEP Blue Standard™ are paid at the Preferred level.

Does Blue Cross cover medical travel?

The Blue Cross Global Traveler Plan is provided by GeoBlue and designed to keep you safe and healthy when you are outside the U.S. Your plan provides you access to global medical expertise with responsive, multi-channel service.