What happens if I need medical care in another country?

What to do if you need help in another country?

Getting Help in an Emergency

If you are overseas and in need of emergency assistance contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. If you are concerned about a loved one overseas, please call: From the U.S. & Canada - 1-888-407-4747. From Overseas - +1 202-501-4444.

What happens if you don't pay a hospital bill from another country?

If no action is taking on your medical bill and you do not pay what is owed, additional charges can be added to your account balance in the form of late fees and interest. Additionally, the healthcare provider can move your balance into international debt collection or file a lawsuit against you.

What happens if I get sick in a different country?

The U.S. government does not pay overseas medical bills. The patient must pay all hospital and other expenses. You can find lists of doctors and hospitals in the country you are visiting. Check the website of the U.S. embassy in the country you are visiting.

Does medical cover emergencies abroad?

Emergency medical coverage is included within some comprehensive travel insurance policies but can also be purchased on its own. Even if you have a primary U.S. insurance plan, including Medicaid or Medicare, odds are it will help very little (or often not at all) while out of the country.

What happens if an American goes missing in a foreign country?

As concerned relatives call in, Consular officers use the information provided by the family or friends of a missing person to locate the individual.

What happens if an American goes to the hospital in Europe?

Be aware that you will likely have to pay out of pocket for any medical treatment, even if your insurance company provides international health care coverage. A visit to the emergency room can be free or cost only a nominal fee, or it can be expensive, depending on where you are and what treatment you need.

Can a tourist go to the hospital?

If you require medical care while visiting the U.S., there are several options for seeking treatment. You can visit an urgent care center, walk-in clinic, or hospital emergency room for immediate medical needs.

Can I see a doctor in another country?

Consult Your Embassy or Consulate

Another useful resource for finding a doctor abroad is your embassy or consulate. For example, U.S. citizens can often find a list of international hospitals and doctors under the "American Citizens Services" section of their embassy's website.

How much does overseas medical insurance cost?

With rates starting as low as $1 per day, cheap travel medical insurance is an affordable way to get insured while away.

Does Medicare cover me if I am out of the country?

Medicare does not pay for medical services you receive outside the United States.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover internationally?

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.

Can I use my US health insurance in another country?

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.

What happens if an American gets sick in Canada?

Canada does not pay for hospital or medical services for visitors. You should get health insurance to cover any medical costs before you come to Canada.

What if an American gets sick in France?

In Case of Medical Emergency

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please contact French Emergency Services. For life or death emergencies, dial 112 for immediate assistance.

What happens if an American gets sick in Italy?

In Italy, patients are free to choose between public hospitals and private hospitals. Public hospitals normally provide both emergency and non-emergency services. At public hospitals, patients may receive emergency services at no cost or upon payment of a limited contribution, depending on the public hospital's policy.

What country gets sick the most?

How to see a doctor when traveling?

What happens if you need medical care in another country?

Some countries have government run hospitals and private hospitals. Care at facilities may vary, so it may be wise to determine a hospital you would prefer to be taken to in the event of a medical emergency. Some countries may also have hospitals that are more able to care for tourists (the staff may speak English).

What happens if you ignore hospital bills?

If you do nothing and don't pay, you could be facing late fees and interest, debt collection, lawsuits, garnishments, and lower credit scores.

What to do if you get sick in a foreign country?

Seek Medical Help Immediately

Go to the hospital right away if you need emergency medical care. Ignoring a seemingly common ailment like a fever, chest pain or animal scratch can have serious consequences. If the situation is minor, a local clinic or student health services may be better than a hospital visit.