Health Care Supplemental Insurance

Posted on December 24, 2011 by Admin
Health Care Supplemental Insurance

Health Care Supplemental Insurance

Travel health coverage can protect travelers of any age from the financial consequences of a sudden illness or injury. For those over 65, though, this kind of insurance may be even more important. Seniors are more likely to need medical care while traveling, and there are some special considerations for those covered by Medicare.

Before a Trip: Tips on Travel Insurance

Before investing in a separate travel health insurance policy, travelers should review their homeowner's policies and current health insurance plans. These policies may already offer some coverage for the potential misfortunes of travel. It’s important for seniors to remember that Medicare does not pay the cost of hospital or physician services obtained outside of the United States, and the U.S. government will not pay for a medical evacuation.

With that said, seniors who have a Medicare supplement plan — a private health insurance policy designed to cover some of the costs that Medicare does not pay — that plan may cover some services obtained abroad. Again, read the policy's fine print before traveling. Most of these policies require the subscriber to pay for medical services up front and apply for reimbursement after returning from the trip. So it’s also important to have plenty of funds on hand in the form of traveler’s checks or an emergency credit card.