Healthy Travel
Don’t assume that your medical insurance policy covers medical care you receive outside the United States. To protect yourself against unforeseen-and perhaps costly-medical charges, take these steps.
* Check with your insurance carrier to see if you’re covered when abroad, or if they offer health insurance for travelers.
* If your insurance doesn’t fully cover you away from home, you may be able to purchase traveler’s health insurance through a major credit card company.
* If you’re traveling with a package tour that offers a health insurance option, consider purchasing it.
* Find out if your policy places any restrictions on coverage. Some insurance companies do not cover chronic illness, complications during the third trimester of pregnancy, or sports-related injuries.
Some plans also cover the cost of returning home in case of an emergency.
© American Institute for Preventive Medicine