International travel insurance

Q1. What is international travel health insurance?
International travel health insurance is a specialized insurance policy that covers medical expenses for illnesses or injuries incurred while traveling outside your home country. It helps travelers access necessary care without facing overwhelming out-of-pocket costs.

Q2. What does international travel health insurance typically cover?
Most plans include:

• Emergency Medical Coverage: Hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, and treatments for illnesses or injuries.
   
• Medical Evacuation & Repatriation: Emergency transportation to the nearest medical facility or back home if medically necessary.
   
• Trip Interruption for Medical Reasons: Reimbursement for non-refundable travel costs if a trip is cut short due to a medical emergency.
   
• Prescription Medication: Covers prescriptions needed during travel for covered conditions.
   
• 24/7 Assistance Services: Access to medical advice, provider referrals, and emergency transport coordination.
   

Q3. Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Some policies may offer limited coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, but this often requires additional premiums or special provisions. Travelers should carefully review policy terms to confirm eligibility.

Q4. Why is international travel health insurance important?
Most domestic health insurance plans don’t fully cover medical expenses abroad. Travel health insurance ensures that travelers are financially protected and can access quality care, including emergency evacuation if needed.

Q5. Who needs international travel health insurance?
It’s recommended for:

• Vacation travelers and business travelers
   
• Students or workers living abroad temporarily
   
• Anyone traveling to countries with limited or expensive healthcare options
   

Q6. What should travelers check before buying a policy?
Travelers should review:

• Coverage limits and exclusions
   
• Network of providers abroad
   
• Whether medical evacuation and repatriation are included
   
• Provisions for pre-existing conditions and trip interruption benefits