Medicare Supplements & Foreign Travel
Many of our clients are curious about what they can expect from the Medicare supplement policies that cover the Foreign Travel Emergency Benefit.
There are only 6 Medicare supplements offered today that fill in this gap, but it’s important to understand this benefit has some limitations.
Plans C, D, F, G, M & N all cover Foreign Travel Emergency. There are no other Medicare supplement plans sold today that fill in this gap. If you travel extensively, then you may want to consider one of these six options or at the very least, High Deductible Plan F as it would cover this gap once the deductible has first been met.
Plans E, H, I & J also cover this benefit, but they are no longer for sale. If you purchased once of these four plans before June 1, 2010, then you are covered. Fortunately, these 10 total plans are the most commonly purchased Medicare supplements, so most people have this gap covered.
What Does Foreign Travel Emergency Actually Cover?
That is a good question. First, you have a $250 deductible. After the deductible has been met, then Plans, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J M and N pay 80% of medically necessary emergency care received outside of the U.S.
These 10 Medicare supplement plans only cover medical care if it begins during the first 60 days of your trip and if the billed charges weren’t already covered by Medicare. (In other words, Medicare does already cover some planned care received outside of the U.S., but this benefit it strictly for emergencies.)
It is also important to note that their is a $50,000 lifetime limit on the amount this benefit will pay. This limit is something to be mindful of if you travel abroad frequently.
Should I Purchasing Health Insurance For Travel Abroad?
Maybe. If your trip will be longer than 60 days, it might be a good idea. Foreign Travel Emergency does not pay after day 60. You might also consider a separate short term health policy for travel abroad if you live outside of the country for more than a couple of months at a time.
You might also consider a separate policy if you are close to reaching the lifetime $50,000 limit. Or you might consider additional insurance if you travel frequently and just want piece of mind.
On the other hand, if you only take the occasional trip abroad once every year or so, then the above mentioned Medicare supplement plans should be fine. The benefits provided should be enough to get you on the mend and home again where you can receive care in the U.S. if needed.
Contact Us for Medicare Supplement Insurance Coverage
Hyers and Associates is a full service, independent insurance agency. We specialize in plans that supplement Medicare as well as health insurance coverage for those who travel abroad. We can help you find the plans that will best fit your needs and budget. Contact us today for quotes and information.
Category: Medicare Supplements
Last updated on January 23rd, 2017