Travel Medical Insurance: Staying Safe While Abroad
Studying abroad is an exciting adventure, but it’s also important to stay prepared and protected while exploring a new country. One of the best ways to ensure a safe and stress-free experience is by having travel medical insurance, which covers unexpected health issues, emergencies, and other situations that could arise while you’re away from home.
Many study abroad programs require students to submit medical forms and have travel medical insurance as part of the enrollment and visa process. At StudyAbroad.com, travel medical insurance is included in your tuition, so you can focus on your journey knowing that you’re covered in case of an emergency!
Why Is Travel Insurance Important?
No one plans to get sick or injured while abroad, but having the right coverage ensures you won’t have to deal with unexpected medical costs alone. Here’s why travel medical insurance is essential:
- Your regular health insurance may not cover you abroad. Many U.S. health plans don’t extend coverage to international locations, leaving you unprotected in case of an illness or injury.
- Even if you have some coverage, it might be limited. Some plans cover international healthcare costs at a reduced rate, meaning you could end up paying a significant portion out of pocket.
- Medical evacuations are expensive. If you need emergency transportation back home for treatment, costs can exceed $25,000—something most standard health insurance policies don’t cover.
Universities and host countries often require medical insurance as part of the study abroad process. But beyond being a requirement, having proper medical coverage is essential for your peace of mind (and your parents’!) and financial security while living in a foreign country. Healthcare systems vary significantly worldwide, and medical expenses can quickly add up without insurance. Even a minor illness or injury could result in substantial medical bills in some countries. Proper medical insurance ensures that you have access to necessary medical care without the burden of excessive costs.
What Does Your Travel Insurance Through StudyAbroad.com Cover?
Every StudyAbroad.com program includes a comprehensive travel medical insurance plan from a provider called VolunteerCard for the duration of your program. It supplements your regular health insurance, ensuring you have medical coverage while you’re away from home, even if your primary insurance doesn’t extend internationally.
During your enrollment process, your StudyAbroad.com advisor will book your plan for the duration of your program and share the insurance card and plan details with you. Your travel medical insurance will include the following:
- Accident Medical Expense
- Dental
- Illness Medical Expense
- Emergency Evacuation
- Security Evacuation
- Repatriation of Remains
- Accidental Death & Dismemberment
- Missed Connection
- Trip Delay
- Baggage & Personal Effects Loss
- Baggage Delay
These plans are included in tuition for all students on StudyAbroad.com programs, ensuring peace of mind as you embark on your international adventures!
What to Do If You Need Medical Care Abroad
Despite careful planning, you may find yourself needing medical care while abroad. Knowing what to do in these situations can help you manage the experience with less stress.
If you need to see a doctor, contact your insurance provider for a list of approved medical facilities in your area. Your plan will have a network of preferred providers where your coverage will be fully accepted. For non-emergency situations, calling your insurance provider’s helpline is a good idea. They can advise you on the best course of action, like visiting a local clinic or scheduling an appointment with a specialist.
In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or clinic immediately. Most insurance plans will reimburse emergency care costs, even if the facility is not in their network. Be sure to keep all receipts and documentation for your insurance claim.
Ensuring a Safe and Healthy Study Abroad Experience
With the right preparation, you can focus on making the most of your enriching experience abroad, knowing that your health and safety are well taken care of!
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