Will my health insurance cover me in another country?

Asked by: Ms. Lysanne Yost MD  |  Last update: July 30, 2022
Score: 4.8/5 (10 votes)

Unfortunately, most domestic health insurance policies dont provide coverage outside your home country. In general, domestic plans limit their coverage to specific geographic areas.

How do I know if my health insurance covers me internationally?

Call Your Health Insurance Company

The first step is to contact your health insurance company to verify whether your emergency medical coverage extends outside the U.S. Contact the customer service department and ask these kinds of questions: If I get sick or injured abroad, will my policy cover me?

Does health insurance cover you while traveling?

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.

Can I use my US health insurance in Europe?

While many US citizens think that they have excellent health coverage and may not need to purchase anything separate for Europe, you must be aware that domestic US insurance plans have very little or no coverage outside US national borders.

Can I go to another country for free healthcare?

As a tourist in a foreign country, you should have travel health insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses or you may have to pay out of pocket. That's because there is no “free” healthcare anywhere; every health system is funded either by taxes or other contributions by the residents of that country.

Should you get medical insurance when traveling?

35 related questions found

Can I see a doctor in another country?

How Do I See a Doctor in a Foreign Country? If you have an international health insurance plan, or travel insurance, they should provide you with an emergency medical assistance number you can call to help you arrange for a doctor visit. To schedule an appointment, first contact your insurance company.

Can I go to the hospital 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 an American gets sick in Europe?

In most countries, you can call 112, the European Union's universal emergency number for ambulance, fire department or police. Most countries also have a 911 equivalent that works as well. Or you can ask a hotelier, restaurant host, or whoever's around to call an ambulance or taxi for you.

Can United Healthcare be used internationally?

Purchase travel medical insurance

There are several advantages to an international travel medical insurance policy. For example, a SafeTrip international travel insurance plan, along with travel assistance services, available through UnitedHealthcare Global, can help you: Find a pre-screened, quality medical provider.

Do US citizens get free healthcare in Europe?

Every citizen is enrolled in the national healthcare system and a good portion of medical services are provided free of charge by doctors who are employed by the government.

How does health insurance work when traveling abroad?

If your insurer does provide coverage for medical treatment you get in another country, the care is typically reimbursed at an out-of-network rate, which means higher out-of-pocket costs.

How much is international travel health insurance?

The average cost of travel insurance is 5% to 6% of your trip costs, according to Forbes Advisor's analysis of travel insurance rates. For a $5,000 trip, the average travel insurance cost is $228, and the range of rates is from $154 for a basic policy up to $437 for a policy with generous coverage .

Does Medicare cover if you are out of the country?

Yes. Because Medicare has limited coverage of health care services outside the U.S., you can choose to buy a travel insurance policy to get more coverage. An insurance agent or travel agent can give you more information about buying travel insurance.

Is Blue Cross Blue Shield valid in other countries?

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.

Do I need travel insurance?

If you're going overseas, travel insurance is as important as a passport. Without it, you or your family could suffer financially if things go wrong. No matter who you are, where you're going and what you're doing, get insurance. Some international travel insurance policy providers may cover COVID-19-related claims.

What countries does UnitedHealthcare cover?

UnitedHealthcare Global - serves 6.2 million people with medical benefits, residing principally in Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Peru but also in more than 130 other countries.

Does Medicaid cover international travel?

In general, Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas.

What is a travel insurance policy?

Travel insurance is coverage designed to protect against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling. The risks range from minor inconveniences such as missed airline connections and delayed luggage all the way to more serious issues including injuries or major illness.

What to do if you have a medical emergency abroad?

The nearest US embassy or consulate can help travelers locate medical services and notify your friends, family, or employer of an emergency. They are available for emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, overseas and in Washington, DC (888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444).

Can I get free medical treatment in Europe?

Apply for a GHIC

A GHIC lets you get medically necessary state healthcare in Europe at a reduced cost or sometimes for free. If your EHIC is still in date, you do not need to apply for a new GHIC .

What to do if you are stranded in a foreign country with no money?

The U.S. Department of State's Office of Overseas Citizens Services (888) 407-4747 (or from overseas +1 202-501-4444) can assist U.S. citizens who are temporarily destitute abroad.

What happens if you don't have health insurance and you go to the hospital?

However, if you don't have health insurance, you will be billed for all medical services, which may include doctor fees, hospital and medical costs, and specialists' payments. Without an insurer to absorb some or even most of those costs, the bills can increase exponentially.

Do you have to pay for surgery 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.

How do I see a doctor when traveling?

Just dial 111 - the service is open 24 hours per day - and you can speak to someone who will assess your condition and advise what the best course of action is.

What countries recognize US medical license?

14 Countries Where American Physicians Can Practice Medicine Abroad
  • Australia. American training inclusive of medical school, residency, USMLEs, and board certification is recognized by the Australian Medical Board. ...
  • Belize. ...
  • Bermuda. ...
  • Canada. ...
  • Cayman Islands. ...
  • China. ...
  • India. ...
  • Israel.