Traveling This Summer? Here’s What You Need to Know About Medicare Coverage
Are you planning to travel within the U.S. this summer? The good news is that most doctors and hospitals accept Original Medicare. If you experience a sudden illness or injury, Medicare Part B typically covers emergency medical care while you’re away.
However, if you’re heading abroad, there are a few important details to consider. Medicare does not cover medical expenses incurred outside the U.S. This includes not reimbursing for prescription medications you purchase while overseas. That said, Medicare may cover certain services abroad, such as inpatient hospital care, ambulance services, or dialysis in foreign hospitals, but coverage is often limited.
For additional protection when traveling internationally, Medigap (Medicare Supplement insurance) can be a lifesaver. Medigap is designed to work alongside Original Medicare, helping to cover costs that Medicare doesn’t pay, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Importantly, some Medigap plans offer emergency medical coverage for situations that occur outside of the United States. This is a huge benefit for anyone who plans to travel abroad and wants peace of mind knowing they’re covered if an unexpected health issue arises.
Not all Medigap plans offer this benefit, so it’s essential to choose the right plan based on your travel needs. Medigap Plan C and Plan F, for example, offer foreign travel emergency health coverage, but you’ll need to check with your provider to ensure it’s included in your specific plan.
In addition to offering overseas protection, Medigap helps cover costs not included in Original Medicare, such as:
- Deductibles: Medigap can help you pay for the out-of-pocket costs associated with Medicare Part A and Part B deductibles.
- Coinsurance and Copayments: Medigap covers some or all of the coinsurance and copayments that Original Medicare doesn’t cover.
- Extended Hospital Stays: If you require additional hospital days beyond what Medicare covers, Medigap can pick up the cost.
If you’re concerned about medical expenses while traveling or want to reduce your out-of-pocket costs at home, Medigap can provide extra peace of mind.
Still unsure which plan is right for you? Reach out to a live insurance expert at Health Plans of America to discuss your options and get the coverage you need today!