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INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL & IMMUNIZATION CLINIC

(509) 336-7354

For an appointment, please call (509) 336-7354 and leave a message. The nurse will call you back to schedule an appointment. Monday-Thursday, 10:00am-3:00pm.

Before You Travel

It is important to note that all visits to the clinic are by appointment only. Travelers should contact the clinic at least 6-8 weeks before departure as some immunizations require a series of injections. It takes time for antibodies to rise to the most optimum level for immunity.

We also have two tropical medicine trained physicians who can consult with and assist you if you pick up an illness while visiting another country.

Referral from your physician is not necessary to receive a consultation. Travel Clinic consultations cost $50 per patient. We will gladly send immunization costs to insurance; however, other costs must be covered by the patient. Many insurance plans will pay for routine vaccinations.

Even if you are not traveling, it may be necessary to receive vaccinations for work or other reasons. These vaccines include rabies pre-exposure, Tuberculosis tests, or simply staying up to date with immunizations. 

Anyone who experiences a fever and illness post-travel should let their physician know or contact the hospital for further instructions. Patients seeking care at their physician’s office or at the hospital should let their physician know that they have been out of the country.

Vaccines & Tests

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis AB
• MMR - Measles, Mumps, Rubella
• Meningococcal Meningitis - Menactra or Menveo
• Meningococcal Meningitis - Menomune
• Meningococcal Meningitis B - Trumenda or Bexero
• Pneumococcal vaccine - Prevnar 13
• Pneumococcal vaccine - Pneumovax 23
• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
• varicella (chicken pox)
• zostavax - shingles
• Gardisil-HPV 
• Immune globulin
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Typhoid-oral and injectable
• Yellow Fever 
• COVID-19 travel tests
• Tuberculosis (TB) skin tests (done on Mondays and Tuesdays)
• Quantiferon Gold Tuberculosis (TB) tests (takes 1 week to get lab results back)
• Rabies Antibody Titer Test (takes 4 weeks to get results back)
• Rabies - pre-exposure and post-exposure
• Haemophilus B

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! All visits to the Travel Clinic are by appointment only. You can call (509) 336-7354 to schedule an appointment. 

The Travel Clinic does not accommodate walk-ins. 

If you are unable to make your scheduled appointment time, please call (509) 336-7354 to cancel or reschedule. 

This allows us to schedule other patients during this time, as spots fill up quickly. Thank you for helping us be accessible and available to all!

Results generally take 24-48 hours, though some tests take as long as 72 hours. 

If you got tested at the Travel Clinic: Results are sent to patients via an encrypted email. Patients can also stop by the Emergency Department to pick up test results. 

If you got tested at your primary care provider's office:  Contact your primary care provider to receive results. Results of tests conducted at other facilities are not accessible by the Travel Clinic or other hospital departments. 

Through the Travel Clinic: The Travel Clinic can provide pre-travel testing only. The cost of a test is $250 paid at time of test. No insurance is required. Results are available 24-48 hours after testing. All results are communicated through an encrypted email.

Through your primary care provider's office:  Contact your primary care provider's office to order a COVID-19 test.

Know Before You Go

Shari Larsen, Travel Clinic Consultant, discusses necessary immunizations and recommendations before you travel internationally.

Seek pre-travel advice at least 6 to 8 weeks prior to your scheduled departure. 

Zika Virus and Pregnancy

Learn what you need to know to protect yourself and your baby.

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What Happens If A Tourist Goes To The Hospital In The US

Published: November 8, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Constantina Spellman

• Safety & Insurance

Introduction

Traveling to the United States can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, unforeseen circumstances such as accidents or illnesses can occur during a trip, requiring medical attention. If you find yourself in need of medical care while visiting the US, it’s essential to have an understanding of how the healthcare system works and what to expect.

The US healthcare system is known for its advanced medical facilities and world-class healthcare providers. However, it operates differently from many other countries. In this article, we will explore what happens if a tourist goes to the hospital in the US, including medical insurance coverage, the cost of treatment, emergency care, and language and cultural considerations.

Having a basic knowledge of the US healthcare system can help alleviate any anxiety or confusion that may arise when seeking medical treatment as a tourist. Whether you have a minor injury or require more extensive medical care, understanding the process will ensure a smoother experience and enable you to focus on your recovery.

Understanding the US Healthcare System

The US healthcare system is a complex and multi-faceted system. Unlike many other countries that have universal healthcare systems, the US operates on a predominantly private healthcare model. This means that individuals are responsible for obtaining and maintaining their own medical insurance coverage.

Medical care in the US is provided by a combination of private healthcare providers, such as hospitals and clinics, as well as government-funded programs like Medicare and Medicaid. Healthcare services can range from routine check-ups and preventive care to specialized treatments and surgeries.

When seeking medical care as a tourist in the US, it’s important to understand that you will typically be accessing healthcare services in a hospital emergency room or urgent care center. These facilities are equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies and injuries.

In order to receive treatment at a hospital, you will likely need to provide some form of identification, such as a passport, and may be required to fill out paperwork and provide information about your medical history. It is also important to note that while emergency care is available to everyone, non-emergency treatment may not be provided without proof of insurance or payment arrangements.

The US healthcare system is renowned for its advanced medical technology and highly trained healthcare professionals. However, it is also known for being expensive. It is essential to have adequate medical insurance coverage to mitigate the high costs associated with medical treatment in the US.

Now that we have a basic understanding of the US healthcare system, let’s explore what to expect when going to the hospital as a tourist.

What to Expect at the Hospital

When visiting a hospital in the US as a tourist, there are a few key things to expect. Firstly, you will likely be required to provide your identification, such as a passport, and may need to fill out paperwork regarding your personal information and medical history. This helps the hospital staff gather necessary information to provide you with the appropriate care.

Once you have gone through the administrative process, you will be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the nature and severity of your condition. This evaluation may involve a physical examination, diagnostic tests such as blood work or imaging scans, and discussions about your symptoms and medical history.

Based on the evaluation, the healthcare professional will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may include medications, procedures, or referrals to specialists for further evaluation and treatment.

It is important to note that communication at the hospital may primarily be conducted in English. While healthcare providers strive to provide appropriate interpretation services, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of English or bring someone who can help with translation if you are not fluent in the language.

Throughout your hospital stay, you can expect to receive comprehensive medical care. The healthcare professionals will be attentive to your needs and will work to ensure your comfort and recovery. They will regularly monitor your condition, administer medications, provide necessary treatments, and address any concerns or questions you may have.

Depending on the severity of your condition, you may receive treatment as an outpatient, where you visit the hospital for specific procedures or follow-up appointments, or as an inpatient, where you stay overnight or for an extended period for more intensive treatment or recovery.

Remember to keep records of all medical documentation, including test results, diagnoses, and treatment plans, as this information will be useful for any follow-up care or insurance claims you may need to make.

Now that we have discussed what to expect at the hospital, let’s explore the topic of medical insurance coverage for tourists in the US.

Medical Insurance Coverage for Tourists

When it comes to medical insurance coverage for tourists in the US, it’s important to be proactive and plan ahead. The US healthcare system does not provide free healthcare for visitors, and medical expenses can be exorbitant without proper insurance coverage.

Before traveling to the US, it is advisable to check with your home country’s insurance provider to see if they offer any coverage for medical emergencies abroad. Some insurance policies may have limited coverage for emergency medical treatment in the US, while others may require you to purchase additional travel health insurance.

If your existing insurance does not provide coverage in the US, it is strongly recommended to purchase a travel health insurance plan that specifically covers medical expenses in the United States. These plans can provide coverage for emergency medical treatment, hospital stays, medications, and even emergency medical evacuation if necessary.

It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the insurance policy, including coverage limits, deductibles, and any exclusions. Some insurance plans may also require you to pay upfront for medical services and then seek reimbursement later, so it’s essential to understand the claims process and keep copies of all relevant medical documents.

Having valid medical insurance coverage can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected financial burdens in the event of a medical emergency during your trip to the US. It is recommended to research and compare different insurance plans to find the one that best suits your needs and offers adequate coverage.

Now that we understand the importance of insurance coverage, let’s explore the cost of medical treatment for tourists in the US.

Cost of Medical Treatment for Tourists

The cost of medical treatment for tourists in the United States can vary significantly depending on the type and extent of treatment needed. It is no secret that healthcare in the US is notoriously expensive, and medical bills can quickly add up.

Without proper insurance coverage, the cost of medical treatment can be overwhelming. For example, a visit to the emergency room can cost several thousand dollars, and more complex procedures or surgeries can easily reach tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

It’s important to note that medical providers in the US often charge higher rates for services provided to uninsured patients compared to those covered by insurance. This means that having insurance coverage can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for medical treatment.

If you do require medical treatment as a tourist without insurance coverage, it is essential to discuss payment options with the hospital or healthcare provider before receiving care. They may offer payment plans or discuss other arrangements to help manage the expenses.

However, it is crucial to be aware that, ultimately, you are responsible for the cost of your medical treatment. Therefore, securing adequate insurance coverage before your trip is highly recommended to protect yourself financially.

Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that the cost of medical treatment can vary depending on the location within the US. Major cities and popular tourist destinations may charge higher rates compared to rural areas. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to research and consider the potential costs when planning your trip.

Lastly, it is worth mentioning that the US healthcare system lacks price transparency, making it challenging for patients to determine the exact costs of medical procedures upfront. This can sometimes lead to unexpected expenses. It is advisable to ask for a detailed breakdown of costs and keep track of all medical bills and documentation.

Now that we’ve discussed the cost of medical treatment, let’s explore emergency medical care for tourists in the US.

Emergency Medical Care for Tourists

Emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s crucial for tourists to know how to access emergency medical care when visiting the United States. If you find yourself in a medical emergency, call 911 immediately for assistance.

When you dial 911, an emergency operator will guide you through the necessary steps and dispatch appropriate medical personnel to your location. Emergency medical services (EMS) teams in the US are highly trained and equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, providing immediate care and transportation to the nearest hospital.

It’s important to note that emergency medical care is available to everyone in the US, regardless of their citizenship or insurance status. The Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) requires all hospitals in the US to provide emergency medical care to anyone who seeks treatment, regardless of their ability to pay.

Once you arrive at the hospital, you will receive the necessary medical attention and evaluation. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the provision of non-emergency medical care may be limited without insurance coverage or payment arrangements.

In cases where the medical emergency requires specialized care beyond what the local hospital can provide, you may be transferred to a higher-level facility for further treatment. This is done to ensure that you receive the appropriate level of care based on the severity and complexity of your condition.

It’s important to remember that the cost of emergency medical care can be significant, and having valid insurance coverage is vital to help mitigate these expenses. However, in a life-threatening emergency, immediate medical care should be the priority, and discussions about insurance and payment can be addressed later.

It’s wise to keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including your insurance provider’s contact information, with you at all times. This will ensure that you have the necessary information readily available in case of an emergency.

Now that we’ve covered emergency medical care for tourists, let’s move on to discuss language and cultural considerations when seeking medical treatment in the US.

Language and Cultural Considerations

When seeking medical treatment as a tourist in the United States, it’s important to be aware of language and cultural considerations that may arise during your healthcare experience.

The primary language spoken in the US is English, and most healthcare providers communicate primarily in English. While efforts are made to provide interpretation services, it is beneficial to have a basic understanding of English or bring someone who can assist with translation if you are not fluent in the language.

In some areas of the country, especially in popular tourist destinations, healthcare providers may have access to interpreters or staff members who speak multiple languages. However, this cannot be guaranteed everywhere. It is always wise to inquire about language services when seeking medical care, especially for non-emergency or specialized treatments.

Additionally, understanding and adapting to cultural differences can also enhance your healthcare experience. In the US, healthcare providers strive to provide patient-centered care and respect cultural beliefs and practices. However, it’s important to communicate any specific cultural or religious preferences to your healthcare providers to ensure that your care aligns with your personal values.

If you have specific dietary restrictions or require accommodations for religious practices during your hospital stay, it is advisable to inform the healthcare staff beforehand. Many hospitals in the US offer options for diverse dietary needs and can make necessary arrangements to accommodate cultural practices to the best of their ability.

Being mindful of cultural differences and effectively communicating your needs and preferences will contribute to a more inclusive and comfortable healthcare experience.

Now that we’ve explored language and cultural considerations, let’s conclude our discussion on what happens when a tourist goes to the hospital in the US.

When a tourist finds themselves in need of medical care in the United States, understanding the healthcare system, insurance coverage, and what to expect at the hospital is crucial. The US healthcare system operates on a primarily private model, and tourists are responsible for obtaining their own medical insurance coverage.

By being proactive and securing appropriate insurance coverage, tourists can protect themselves from the high costs associated with medical treatment in the US. It’s important to research and compare different insurance plans to find one that best suits your needs and offers adequate coverage for emergencies.

Understanding what to expect at the hospital, including the administrative process, evaluation and treatment procedures, and language and cultural considerations, will ensure a smoother healthcare experience. While emergency medical care is available to all in the US, the provision of non-emergency treatment may require proof of insurance or payment arrangements.

Tourists should also be aware of the potential costs of medical treatment, as the US healthcare system is known for its high expenses. It is recommended to have a basic understanding of English or bring someone who can assist with translation, as communication with healthcare providers may primarily be conducted in English.

Finally, being aware of language and cultural considerations and effectively communicating your needs and preferences will contribute to a more inclusive and comfortable healthcare experience.

In conclusion, as a tourist in the United States, it is essential to have a basic understanding of the healthcare system, obtain adequate insurance coverage, be prepared for the potential costs of treatment, and be mindful of language and cultural considerations. By doing so, you can navigate the healthcare system with confidence and ensure that your medical needs are met during your time in the US.

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How to Deal With Illness and Injury While Traveling

One of the contingencies I never really planned for before COVID while traveling is the possibility of illness and injury while traveling. It didn’t feel like an urgent matter that needed to be addressed every time I went somewhere, because in all my travels, nothing bad has ever happened to me… until it did.

Now with a global pandemic going on, and having been hurt while traveling, I’m convinced that it is necessary to make sure you’re covered financially in case of an emergency while traveling, and to make sure you absolutely know what to do when injuries and sickness happen. Because they do happen!

Here’s the story. Nick and I were traveling in Cuba . Never before have either of us been really sick or injured on a trip, so we were clearly not prepared when the worst happened. We were walking across a bridge that was in a pretty bad state of disrepair.

A few of the wooden slats were missing. I wasn’t really watching where I was going, as is typical when we’re on vacation and admire the scenery, so imagine my surprise when my foot landed directly in one of the holes.

My left leg got scraped up pretty bad, but my right foot twisted under the pressure and my ankle bone snapped. Sitting on the bridge, trying to assess the situation, the first thing I worried about was how to get help.

Here we were in a Spanish-speaking country with no cell phones and very little language skills. Even if we managed to get to a doctor, would we be able to communicate. Lucky for us, medical insurance is required when entering Cuba. The one time in our entire travel career that we actually bought medical insurance was this trip, because it was mandatory.

Later in the same trip, I developed a high fever due to a viral infection I picked up, most likely due to my immune system being weakened by the bone fracture. As I watched the thermometer numbers climb above 103 degrees, we became worried. Two hospital/doctor visits in the same trip?

We learned during this trip that there are actually three aspects to being prepared for a medical issue or injury while traveling:

• Having proper medical insurance to cover you in any scenario
• Knowing when it’s necessary to get help
• Knowing how to get help

Table of Contents

1. Get Proper Emergency Medical Travel Insurance

As frequent travelers, we often care more about lost luggage or a cancelled flight than we do about injury. If you are like me and have never broken a bone or had any other major injury before, you might feel like you’re immune to it, or that there’s no way anything bad is going to happen to you while you’re out of the country, but that’s a dangerous way to think.

Let’s say the unthinkable DOES happen. How will you pay for care? How will you get home in case of a real emergency? It’s true that your regular health insurance may cover you while traveling overseas, but do you know exactly what it covers?

You want to be sure that it covers the major expenses like health care from an out-of-network doctor or facility and emergency medical evacuation, if necessary. You’ll also want to know if your insurance provider will assist you in finding a doctor, a translator and anything else you might need in an emergency.

Check out  Consumers Advocate  for reviews of health insurance plans and providers that might be available to you.

While it might not seem necessary to purchase extra overseas travel medical insurance , especially if you know you won’t be participating in any extreme activities that might provide an opportunity for injury, is that accidents happen – and they are always unplanned. You will probably survive the bungee jumping, but you might break your ankle while walking across a bridge.

Travel medical insurance will fill in any gaps you might have in your domestic coverage. It also gives good peace of mind because you won’t have to do any prior research on doctors or coverage because your insurance will come with 24/7 assistance.

So, if you’re in Cuba when you break your ankle and you don’t speak the language and don’t know how to get to the nearest hospital, you can call that number and receive immediate assistance. They can help with almost every aspect involved in an injury or illness.

I recommend purchasing at least the minimum coverage for the duration of your trip. You might be surprised to learn that the cost of the coverage is typically very affordable. You’ve already paid a lot to go on this vacation. If you don’t purchase insurance, you could be left with a medical bill that is astronomical.

Be aware that even travel medical coverage does not usually cover emergency evacuation or the costs of altered itineraries . You might have to purchase specific policies to cover these expenses. One company that I trust for travel medical insurance is Allianz , but you can find a million different companies who offer travel, medical and evacuation coverage at varying levels of cost.

You just need to shop around until you find one that fits you. If you’re booking a travel package, often you will be offered to add insurance to your purchase for a smaller upfront cost. Since you will obviously be treated in a facility outside of your domestic health insurance network,  you may be responsible for 100% of the cost .

On my medical plan, I am covered for most International health costs, but I have to pay for it upfront and be reimbursed by it later. If you have travel medical insurance, you may be reimbursed for your costs or the insurance company might pay the hospital directly.

If you’re unable financially to cover large medical bills upfront, be sure to look for coverage that will pay the medical bill directly. Be aware that you will need to provide copies of all bills and invoices to the insurance company to make a claim for reimbursement. Keep everything!

2. Know When It’s Necessary to Get Help

There are a number of scenarios where it might be necessary to seek medical help. The obvious one are:

• when you’ve been in a car accident
• when you’ve been seriously injured
• if you’ve been sexually assaulted
• you have a dental emergency

Some of the less obvious reasons to seek medical attention are the times when you might be second-guessing whether you really need help or not. These include:

• when you have a fever of 103° F or above
• when you have bloody diarrhea or vomiting that lasts longer than 2 days
• when you are visiting a country with a known infectious disease, such as malaria, and you become sick
• when you’ve been scratched or bitten by an animal, or punctured your skin, like stepping on a nail

When I broke my ankle on the bridge, we went back and forth over whether it was necessary to have it checked out. It didn’t feel broken. I just felt badly sprained, and I was able to walk on it, so to me that indicated that it wasn’t broken. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution, especially if you’ve purchased medical insurance – you have nothing to lose from seeking medical advice (except your time).

3. Know How to Get Help

To me, one of the most important things to know is how to get help when you need it. In the United States and many other countries, you can call emergency services with an easy to remember number like 911, but if you’re in a developing nation, calling might not be an option.

If you’re in a remote location and no one is around, you may find it difficult to get help. Before traveling, you should always consider how you would access health care during your trip should a medical problem arise . Here are some things you should know:

• Where is the nearest medical facility to where you’re staying
• Does the hotel you plan to stay at have an English-speaking doctor on call
• Have the numbers for your domestic insurance and travel medical insurance carriers handy and know which number you should call in an emergency.
• Find out exactly what services would be available to you in case of emergency, and how to invoke them.

If you have purchased travel medical insurance, the easiest way to get help is to contact the toll-free number on your plan and speak with a representative who can tell you where the closest medical facility is, contact your family and others, and follow up to ensure you are getting the care you need.

They can also help you find an English-speaking doctor or translator, book emergency flights home and cancel travel plans.

If you don’t have travel medical insurance, but you’re staying in a modern hotel, it’s likely the hotel will have a doctor on call who will make a visit to your room for a fee .

When I developed a high fever while we were traveling in Mexico City, we first called the concierge for a thermometer, then asked them to send the doctor. We also borrowed crutches from the hotel so I could still get around on my broken ankle. The hotel concierge will become your best friend if you have an emergency. They can do many things for you to help out.

If you don’t speak the language , it will obviously be more difficult to find a doctor who speaks your language. I needed an x-ray of my ankle to see if it was fractured, but the clinic where we sought help had no English-speaking staff.

We were lucky enough to have our English-speaking tour guide along with us so she could translate for us. Sure, it cost us some money to have her along, but without her we wouldn’t have been able to communicate with the doctor.

Of course, no one wants to admit that an injury or illness could happen on their vacation. After all, accidents are supposed to happen with in five miles of your home. But no matter what the situation is, you should always know when and how to seek emergency help while travelling.

I’ve definitely learned my lesson about having travel medical insurance. I hope you will consider getting coverage too before you leave the country again.  

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

28 thoughts on “ How to Deal With Illness and Injury While Traveling ”

Wow! I’m leaving for my next vacation on Thursday, so this article was very informative and I’m glad I read it beforehand! I agree, you never really know what will happen on vacation and its better to plan ahead! Thank you for sharing your story of your trip to Cuba, and I appreciate you helping fellow travelers plan better!

You’re welcome, Melissa. I do hope nothing ever happens to any of us while traveling, but that’s just not reality.

Interesting article. Still haven’t purchased travel insurance, but you can kick me if I ever end up needing it!

This is a FANTASTIC article and something that so many people don’t think about!

Thanks for the article. I should probably purchase travel insurance when I backpack Europe this summer.

Great suggestions. I agree, travel insurance is a must! So many people take for granted they will be happy & healthy the whole time traveling.

So sorry to hear about that bridge accident! You’re lucky you had travel insurance for sure! Great to see some good tips in here and to remind us all to cover our asses.

That accident sounds nasty, hope you’ve recovered fully. Yeah it really is a good idea to get travel insurance as you never know what’s around the corner.

So sorry that happened. I’m heading out on a solo trip for 10 days and need to make sure I have travel insurance. Thanks for the reminder.

I still travel without medical insurance but it really is a mistake. I’m going to be sure to get it for my next international trip.

You should consider at least a small amount of coverage if you can. It’ll be worth it if only one time you actually need it.

I just wrote a piece about travel insurance. We have had to use it to make a claim before because we needed to return home for a family emergency! If you have to make large deposits for reservations, bookings etc. You should definitely think about insurance if something happens and you can’t go, you may lose all of your money! And always read the fine print on the insurance policy and think about what might happen! Would you be covered. We use World Nomads and have been quite happy with them.

That’s a very good point, Elizabeth. You may not have even left on the trip when you need to invoke your policy. A lot of things can happen.

Great tips! You should definitely always travel with insurance and know the numbers of emergency services in the country you are visiting. It also helps to know some basic phrases in the local language and if not, have the most typical medical terms written on a piece of paper, just in case you need to seek help.

Luckily, my insurance covers me wherever I am. However, I am always worried about if that “something” happens. Like you, my first worries would be 1) Where do I go? 2) How do I communicate and always wonder about the medical attention/ cleanliness! Luckily, 40 countries down and nothing yet (knock on wood!!!!)

Glad to hear you got through your injuries and hope you’re healing well. Some great trips. It’s true it’s something I don’t really prepare for when I’m traveling. Even just where to go when you need help. Should start making a better habit of that.

Thanks Megan. It was actually the where to go for help part that threw us the most. We just weren’t quite sure what to do.

When I first started traveling I never bought travel insurance and always thought of it as an unnecessary expense. That has changed after a strange foot infection in Vietnam and now I always cover myself for medical emergencies- you never know when you might need it and you’ll only end up thanking yourself in that case.

very informative… i think this is a good thing to know. especially if your somewhere in a different language. medicine and doctors can get quite complicated

True. Even at home, it’s sometimes difficult.

Far out, being injured when in a strange place is scary af! I do hope you’re getting better super quick. 🙂 I appreciate your tips. I guess I don’t really prepare for the worst as it’s not something we think to do, I will defs make a point of ensuring I do for all future travels.

Yes, at least know what to do in case of an emergency. I wish we had – then we wouldn’t have spent so much time worrying about it.

I also never thought about the risk of traveling, in fact I always skip the travel insurance part whenever I book a flight. But your post made me realize so many things. I may not always be lucky, it’s not that I am anticipating for disaster to happen but it’s still better to be prepared. Thanks for the tips.

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My wife broke her ankle in a recent car accident and we’ve been working on helping her heal correctly and everything so she can walk normally again soon. I like what you said about knowing when it’s necessary to get help. We’re looking into it now seeing that she still can’t walk on her foot at all even after all the healing that has already taken place. Hopefully, we can find a clinic that could heal her ankle to an operable state again.

Burt, I’m sorry to hear about your wife’s ankle. I definitely commiserate! It can take some time to heal. I wish you all the luck in finding someone to help!

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Travel Medical Insurance: Emergency Coverage While You Travel Internationally

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Table of Contents

What is travel health insurance?

Travel insurance vs. travel medical insurance, what does travel medical insurance cover, different types of travel medical insurance plans, how to purchase travel medical insurance, credit cards with travel medical insurance, who needs travel health insurance, how much does travel medical insurance cost, medical only travel insurance, how do i use my travel health insurance, what else you need to know, final thoughts on international medical insurance plans.

Travel medical insurance provides protection against unexpected illnesses or injuries during travel abroad.

Premium travel credit cards may offer limited coverage, making stand-alone travel medical insurance necessary.

In case of a medical emergency, contact the insurer, pay expenses and file a reimbursement claim.

Primary vs. secondary coverage: Primary allows direct claims, secondary requires filing with primary first.

If you’re looking for a policy that protects you in the event of an unexpected illness or injury while traveling abroad, then you need to learn about stand-alone travel medical insurance. This type of insurance can be provided by the benefits of certain premium travel credit cards , but the coverages can be both limiting and low in value.

Emergency medical coverage is included within some comprehensive travel insurance policies but can also be purchased on its own. Even if you have a primary U.S. insurance plan, including Medicaid or Medicare, odds are it will help very little (or often not at all) while out of the country.

Checking all the different sources of information can get confusing, and it's easy to misunderstand what type of medical insurance you have when traveling or accidentally duplicate your coverage by purchasing a policy when you already have those benefits covered from another source. Here’s everything you need to know about travel medical insurance so you can choose the best option for your trip.

Travel medical insurance provides reimbursement for emergency medical expenses, including medical evacuations, while you’re traveling. These policies do not provide coverage for routine expenses.

So, if you break your leg while you're on vacation internationally, emergency medical coverage will protect you. However, if you decide to get a teeth cleaning while you’re abroad, you will not be covered. Travel medical insurance is meant to protect you in case of emergency.

Expats, frequent business travelers or individuals who spend significant periods of time living outside the U.S. can purchase a comprehensive travel health insurance policy meant for long-term travelers (more on this below). These policies offer routine medical coverage for those living abroad (generally for one year or longer) rather than vacationers. Long-term international travel health insurance policies should not be confused with travel medical insurance.

Travel medical insurance products and comprehensive policies may also include coverage for family members who are traveling with you, or coverage for a family member to visit you if you become hospitalized. The definition of "family" can vary, but it commonly includes your spouse, children, siblings, parents, grandparents and more. So if your travel companion gets sick or injured during the trip, trip cancellation benefits may kick in. Or if you get hospitalized in a foreign country, the insurer could pay for a flight and hotel accommodations for a designated family member to visit you.

Although natural disasters that impact your plans are usually covered, travel medical insurance policies often exclude pandemics from coverage or those countries that have a ‘Level 4 Do Not Travel’ advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State . If U.S. citizens travel to those countries, travel medical insurance services may not be available. It's important to check the fine print of your policy to determine what may or may not be covered.

A comprehensive travel insurance policy will include more protections than stand-alone travel medical insurance.

Travel medical insurance plans will have protections related to emergency medical events, while comprehensive trip insurance policies cover everything from medical care to trip cancellations.

Here are how those differences generally shake out.

With travel medical insurance, there are no trip cancellation benefits, so the cost of the trip is irrelevant. This makes the policy cheaper compared to purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, where you’ll need to include the entire nonrefundable cost of your vacation when calculating your quote.

Although travel medical plans can include coverage for benefits like trip interruption, the covered amounts will usually be limited.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

You will be reimbursed for unplanned, emergency medical costs that you incur during your trip. We reviewed several travel medical insurance plans on InsureMyTrip and found that they offer the following protections:

Since we reviewed several policies in the chart above, these limits show a wide range.

» Learn more: Does travel insurance cover medical expenses? Kinda.

Both the type of trip and type of coverage determine which travel medical policy makes the most sense. You’ll need to become familiar with four terms: primary coverage, secondary coverage, single trip and multi-trip.

Primary vs. secondary coverage

Travel medical insurance plans will refer to medical coverage as primary or secondary.

Primary means that you can submit a claim to your travel medical insurance company before submitting to any other insurer.

When the policy is secondary , you will need to submit your claim to your primary insurance provider before you can submit a claim to the travel insurance provider.

For example, say you break your leg on vacation and have to go to the emergency room right away. If your travel health insurance is primary, you can pay your medical bill with your credit card and then submit a claim directly to the travel insurer.

However, if your travel medical coverage is secondary, you will first have to submit this claim to your U.S.-based medical insurer even though they may deny the claim (because the policies limit coverage abroad). You may even be required to include the refusal notice from your primary insurance along with your claim to your secondary travel health insurer.

Single-trip vs. multi-trip

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or go on vacation only once a year, you can choose a policy that is tailored to your travel needs. You can purchase either single- or multi-trip coverage, and it's important to know the difference between the two types.

Single-trip medical travel insurance: You leave home, travel internationally and return home. You can visit as many countries as you like while traveling, but when you return home, the coverage ends. These plans are purchased for each trip, whether you’re gone for four days or four weeks.

Multi-trip coverage: You can leave, travel and return home as many times as you want during the covered period. You can, for example, leave home, travel to France for a week, return home for a month, travel to Panama for three weeks and return home. The coverage continues no matter how many times you return home as long as each trip does not exceed the allowable period (usually 30 to 90 days). These plans must be purchased on an annual basis, and they require you to have health insurance in the United States.

Multi-trip coverage makes sense (and is usually more cost effective) if you travel frequently and do not want to purchase a single policy each time you go on an international trip. However, if you do not have medical insurance in the U.S., you will not be covered under multi-trip plans.

Do I need to have primary health insurance in the U.S. to be eligible for travel medical insurance?

The answer to this question is: maybe. It depends on the type of coverage you have. If your single-trip plan refers to your medical coverage as primary, you don’t need another health insurance policy. However, if the coverage provided under your single-trip plan is secondary, then you must have primary health insurance.

As noted above, all multi-trip plans require that you have primary medical insurance coverage in the U.S.

» Learn more: What to do if you get sick while traveling overseas

You can search for medical travel policies on insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner), InsureMyTrip or Travel Guard . Policies differ by state, and availability may change during or after the pandemic, so verify that the state you reside in offers travel medical insurance in light of coronavirus.

You might already have some travel medical insurance from an existing credit card in your wallet. If your limits are sufficient for your risk tolerance, you might forego purchasing a separate travel medical insurance policy or plan.

Let's take a look at the Chase Sapphire Reserve® coverage, for example. It offers emergency medical coverage up to $2,500 (maximum $10,000 per trip) with a $50 deductible. This card has an annual fee of $550 .

In contrast, the policies we've discussed above, offer medical coverage from $50,000 to $2,000,000. That's significantly more coverage from the third-party option.

So if you want a higher limit — even if you have a premium travel credit card with existing medical coverage — purchasing a complementary plan may make sense.

This can be especially true if you are traveling in a country with expensive healthcare, will be traveling in remote or rural areas, or will be participating in higher-risk adventures.

Credit card travel medical insurance coverage doesn't always include pre-existing conditions. Check your terms.

If that $550 annual fee makes you cringe, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve® 's 'little sibling' card, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card has similar, but fewer, benefits but for a more moderate annual fee of $95 . It offers identical travel medical insurance.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

If you plan on traveling and your existing medical insurance will not cover you in the country you are traveling to, buying a travel medical insurance plan could make sense. You could either purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy or one that only provides medical coverage.

Purchasing a policy strictly for travel medical insurance is a good idea for those who want emergency coverage while traveling but:

Have a premium travel card that already provides trip cancellation and trip delay coverage the individual deems sufficient.

Do not need trip cancellation, trip delay or the other benefits provided by a comprehensive policy because the traveler will remain in one location for a while and is not worried about a canceled trip.

If you do not have a travel card with trip cancellation benefits and you also want emergency medical coverage, then you’re better off with a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

The cost of the policy varies based on a number of factors including:

The country you’re going to.

The state you’re from.

Coverage provided.

NerdWallet conducted a full analysis of medical travel insurance costs and found that it’s typically 7% of your overall trip cost. For example, travel insurance will cost you an additional $140 (roughly) for a $2,000 trip.

Here's a closer look at medical benefits provided by some standalone travel insurance providers. Note that these plans typically include other non-medical only travel insurance benefits.

Travelex: Travel Select

The Travel Select plan from Travelex breaks its medical travel insurance into two separate categories:

Emergency medical expense : $50,000 (with a dental coverage sublimit of $500).

Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains : $500,000 (with an escort coverage limit of $25,000).

If you purchase the plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment, your coverage will also include a pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver.

Seven Corners Trip Protection Choice

The Seven Corners Trip Protection Choice plan includes more coverage than its Basic counterpart.

Emergency accident and sickness medical expense: Up to $500,000 Primary Coverage.

Emergency dental: Up to $750.

Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains: Up to $1 million. This includes emergency medical evacuation, medical repatriation and repatriation of remains coverage.

If you encounter a medical emergency while traveling, contact your travel insurance provider about how to proceed.

You will likely need to pay for your medical expenses using your credit card and subsequently file a claim for reimbursement with the insurer.

Some coverage (e.g., emergency evacuation) may need to be arranged by your travel medical insurance provider to be eligible for reimbursement.

In all instances, it's best to contact your insurance provider before making any arrangements or paying any bills.

Terminology

Similar to your regular health insurance, travel medical coverage also comes with limits, exclusions and deductibles.

Exclusions are specific events that are excluded from coverage. For example, some plans may exclude coverage for activities (e.g., skydiving) that are deemed risky. Check the policy to make sure that the activities you plan to partake in are not excluded.

Limits are monetary caps on coverage. For example, the policy may cover emergency dental treatment but only up to $500 worth. Anything over that maximum you would be responsible for paying.

A deductible is an amount you need to pay before your policy will reimburse. For example, if you have a policy with a $250 deductible and you submit claims for eligible expenses totaling $400, the insurer will reimburse you only $150. Policies can often be customized to increase or decrease the deductible.

The lower the deductible, the more expensive the policy and vice versa.

Long-term travel medical insurance options for expats

Individuals who live or work abroad and spend a considerable portion of the year living outside the U.S. are eligible for a travel health insurance plan that provides coverage for routine medical care. These policies are different from travel medical insurance, which is meant to cover only emergencies.

Long-term international travel health insurance plans usually have higher limits than travel medical insurance policies and are available on a long-term basis only (one year or more).

The policies are only available for one year or longer and have high maximum limits of $1,000,000 to $8,000,000. The plans are customizable and allow you to receive worldwide medical treatment.

For the most part, your U.S.-based medical insurance provider will not cover your medical treatment when you’re abroad. If you want peace of mind while you’re on a trip away from your home country, a travel medical insurance plan is your best bet.

Anytime before your trip begins.

Generally, the emergency medical insurance coverage on credit cards offers fewer protections and lower limits than a stand-alone policy. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers emergency medical coverage up to $2,500 with a $50 deductible. The policies we looked at above offered medical coverage from $50,000 to $2,000,000. If you want a higher limit, you may want to purchase a travel medical insurance policy.

It depends on the type of coverage you’re looking for. Generally, if you’re only concerned with emergency medical benefits and don’t need trip cancellation, trip delay, rental car coverage or any of the other benefits provided by a comprehensive travel insurance plan, a medical plan should be enough for you. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and your particular circumstances determine which policy is most suitable.

Yes. Travelers can purchase medical-only travel insurance coverage, and on the bright side, this type of plan is often more affordable than comprehensive policies. In 2023, travelers spent an average of $96 on medical-only travel insurance, versus over $400 on average for comprehensive plans, according to Squaremouth.

Generally, the emergency medical insurance coverage on credit cards offers fewer protections and lower limits than a stand-alone policy. For example, the

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

offers emergency medical coverage up to $2,500 with a $50 deductible. The policies we looked at above offered medical coverage from $50,000 to $2,000,000. If you want a higher limit, you may want to purchase a travel medical insurance policy.

Travel health insurance can protect you if you experience an unexpected medical emergency during a trip. Although this is a topic no one wants to think about, it's important to know your options.

Depending on the coverage you’re looking for, you can either pick a stand-alone medical policy or get a comprehensive travel insurance one. Deciding what policy is best depends on your situation and any additional protections you may already have through your premium travel credit card.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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Travel Clinics of America is your best choice for receiving high-quality pre-travel care, sound travel advice, and peace of mind.

Traffic accidents are the leading cause of death and injury among travelers. Follow these steps to stay safe:

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Save time, money and stress with our telehealth travel consult service starting at $59 / person, meet with a travel health expert online.

Make an appointment to talk to a travel health expert online at a time and place that are convenient for you. You will get personalized advice specific to you and your trip as well as answers to your questions. 

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Travel medicine

When you’re traveling abroad, you want every aspect of your trip to go well. Unfortunately, each year as many as 25 percent of Americans who travel abroad experience some type of illness during their trip. On a typical two-week trip, travelers can lose an average of three days because of illness.

The Edward-Elmhurst Health travel medicine specialists can help you take proactive steps to stay healthy and make most of your experience. Contact our travel medicine specialists at least six weeks before your departure , and we’ll customize a plan that prepares you for every place on your itinerary.

What to expect at the travel medicine clinic

When you visit our travel medicine clinic, you’ll consult with one of our specialists about your trip. The discussion will cover:

• All the places you’re visiting, the purpose and timing of your travels, and how long you plan to stay
• Activities you’re planning on your trip, such as mountain climbing or mission work
• Your vaccination and medical history, including allergies
• Your current medications

Travel medicine tailored to your needs

Based on your consultation, we will recommend the appropriate vaccines and prescriptions for your trip. Recommendations will be customized to your unique needs. For example, you may need medication to limit altitude sickness during a climbing expedition. You’ll also learn how to plan for water and food safety, protect yourself from disease-carrying mosquitoes, and deal with traveler’s diarrhea and other common ailments.

We carefully consider the risks and benefits of vaccines and medicines and, in some cases, provide an explanatory waiver rather than a vaccination. This document explains the decision not to give a vaccine, typically due to a person's age, medical condition or current medications.

Vaccines and immunizations

The Edward-Elmhurst travel medicine clinic offers the following vaccines:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Japanese encephalitis
• Yellow Fever*

*CDC Certified Yellow Fever Immunization site.

Certain vaccinations may require more than one dose and/or a follow-up consultation.

Make an appointment six weeks in advance

Travel medicine consultations must be scheduled in advance. A 4-6 week lead time is strongly recommended for most vaccinations, as there may be a waiting period before the vaccine becomes effective. Payment is due at the time of service. Most insurance companies do not reimburse for this service.

Services offered at:

Edward Hospital Campus 100 Spalding, Suite 212 Naperville, IL 60540

To schedule an appointment, call 630-527-7299 .

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Accessing Emergency Assistance

Rescue or evacuation services may not be available in some very remote locations. All travelers — especially those going to remote territories — should develop an emergency action plan in the event they encounter unforeseen circumstances. The U.S. Department of State may assist you in an emergency, but you will have to pay your travel and accommodation expenses. 16  

Your emergency action plan should include emergency contact numbers and details about what services may be available at your destination. Make extra copies of your passport and travel documents to keep with you, and provide copies to someone back home. 

A benefit of DAN membership is to assist with all three stages of emergency medical assistance for travelers: rescue, evacuation and repatriation.

The process of locating travelers in need of assistance, retrieving them and getting them to someone who can provide initial medical care is defined as the rescue phase of assistance. DAN’s ability to help with the early stages of a DAN member’s rescue in a remote wilderness area or far out at sea may be very limited. Sometimes a traveler is unable to alert DAN due to poor communications, or search-and-rescue teams may be out of range or unavailable in that region. Even with good communications, contacting DAN might not be the most expedient way of accessing rescue assistance; local rescue organizations may offer the best service. 

Travelers who are going to remote locations should have an emergency action plan that includes the contact information for a remote rescue service in that region. These services could include local emergency medical services, the nearest search-and-rescue team, the country’s coast guard or even the local police, whatever might be applicable. Verify that they would be available to assist you in the event of an emergency. Contact the local service first if the need for a rescue arises. 

Search-and-rescue operations can be quite expensive, so travelers to remote areas should have insurance that will cover such assistance. Even policies that cover rescues generally limit the reimbursable amount and typically pay only organizations that are trained and approved to undertake search-and-rescue missions. 

The three stages of emergency medical assistance for travelers are: rescue, evacuation and repatriation.

While DAN members hope to never need the emergency medical assistance benefit that DAN membership provides, they are glad to have it available if the need arises.

Below is a list of emergency numbers from around the world. Some countries have different numbers for different types of emergencies. Research the emergency numbers for your destination before traveling.

000   –  Australia 106   –  Australia for text/phone/TTY 110 – China, Korea, Japan (different numbers for ambulance and fire) 112   –  European Union, Russia and on GSM mobile networks across the world Also, the National Sea Rescue Institute in South Africa uses 112 from within South Africa. 100   –  India, Greece, and Israel 108   –  India (22 states) 119   –  Jamaica and parts of Asia 111   –  New Zealand 911   –  North America, Philippines, and most countries in Central America and South America 999   –  Number used in many other countries 122   –  Specific services in several countries

Medical Evacuation

A medical evacuation (medevac) is the transportation of an injured or sick person from one medical facility, such as a small hospital that provides an initial assessment and primary care, to another facility that can provide more comprehensive and sophisticated care. A medevac begins after medical personnel at the nearest medical facility have evaluated the patient’s condition and when resources to evacuate the individual are available. Transportation is usually by land or air, but a boat might be the only available evacuation method in some remote areas. 

Travel assistance organizations optimize the evacuation process by balancing several factors: the type and urgency of the medical need, the available means of evacuation and the proximity of facilities that can provide care. An evacuation may be delayed due to factors such as inclement weather or the unavailability of transportation at night. Patients will not necessarily be returned to their countries of origin but instead will be moved to the closest, most appropriate medical facility before they can move on to the next level of care. 

A medical evacuation sometimes can cost more than $100,000 if it includes several stages or requires the use of a specialized air ambulance. Insurance that covers evacuation is essential if you plan to travel to a remote area. 

Repatriation

Transportation of ill or injured travelers back to their home countries is called repatriation . Insured travelers who are injured or fall sick while traveling and require hospitalization will be returned to their home country at the insurer’s expense if their condition warrants medical travel, if they are stable enough to travel and if the travel does not pose any additional risk to their condition. 

For DAN members, DAN TravelAssist makes all such medical determinations in consultation with the treating physicians and then makes all travel arrangements if they deem repatriation is advisable. 

While DAN members hope to never need the emergency medical assistance benefit that DAN membership provides, they are glad to have it available if the need arises. To ensure coverage, members MUST contact DAN to arrange for and coordinate ALL emergency medical assistance.

DAN Customer Service

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In event of a dive accident or injury, call local EMS first, then call DAN.

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June 1, 2020

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with travel dates on or after

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Use this tool to calculate all purchases like ski-lift passes, show tickets, or even rental equipment.

Why Buy Emergency Medical Travel Insurance?

Why Healthy Travelers Need Emergency Medical Travel Insurance

Travelers who are fit and generally healthy often think they don’t need emergency medical coverage. They’re wrong. Each year, our emergency assistance hotline receives more than 4,000 calls from people who are experiencing a medical crisis during their trip. The most common emergencies we see are fractures from falls ; traumas (often from car accidents, scooter/moped accidents, and assault); cardiovascular problems , such a heart attack or stroke; and pulmonary/respiratory problems , such as a collapsed lung. These things can happen to any traveler, even someone without a history of health problems. Without travel insurance, you’ll have to seek treatment and pay for medical care on your own.

Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Emergency Medical Travel Insurance

Even if you have a chronic illness or other pre-existing medical condition, you can still benefit from having emergency medical coverage while traveling. We define a pre-existing medical condition as an injury, illness, or medical condition that, within the 120 days prior to and including the purchase date of your policy:

• Caused a person to seek medical examination, diagnosis, care, or treatment by a doctor;
• Presented symptoms; or
• Required a person to take medication prescribed by a doctor (unless the condition or symptoms are controlled by that prescription, and the prescription has not changed).

The illness, injury, or medical condition does not need to be formally diagnosed in order to be considered a pre-existing medical condition.

Certain travel insurance plans include the Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver . If your policy includes this waiver, you can be covered for losses due to a pre-existing medical condition if you meet all of the following requirements:

• Your policy was purchased within the time frame specified in your plan (usually 14 days of the date of the first trip payment or deposit.)
• You were a U.S. resident when the policy was purchased.
• You were medically able to travel when the policy was purchased.
• On the policy purchase date, you insured the full non-refundable cost of your trip with Allianz Global Assistance. This includes trip arrangements that will become non-refundable or subject to cancellation penalties between the policy purchase date and the departure date. If you incur additional non-refundable trip expenses after you purchase your policy, you must insure those expenses with us within 14 days of their purchase. If you do not, those expenses will still be subject to the pre-existing medical condition exclusion.

Do you have questions about how emergency medical travel insurance benefits work, or which plan is right for you? We can help! Get a quote for your next trip to compare available plans and costs. Or contact us anytime — we’re happy to advise you.

Related Articles

• Travel Insurance 101: Covered Illnesses
• When Does Travel Insurance Cover Existing Medical Conditions?  
• Travel Insurance with Emergency Medical Benefits
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Flu vaccines : Available on Wednesday afternoons from 1:30 to 4 p.m., with a “Flu Express” line for a quick and easy experience.

Yellow fever vaccines : Currently available.

The International Travel Clinic provides a full range of vaccinations necessary for international travel. Medical counseling is required and includes the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• Hours: walk-in clinic every Wednesday afternoon from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m., excluding holidays
• Cost: medical counseling fee in addition to the immunization charges
• Payment: cash or credit cards (we do not accept checks)
• Additional information: if you need more information prior to your visit, contact the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta. Their web address is www.cdc.gov/travel or you may reach them by phone seven days a week, 24 hours a day. For information in English, please call 1-877-394-8747 . For information in Spanish, please call 1-800-232-4636 .

To speak with a representative at the Center for Health Promotion about specific pricing information, please call:

Please note, vaccine recommendations are not given over the phone. 

We’re Stronger Together

With your help, we can make ambitious innovations in clinical care and education for our community.

Did you complete your Medicaid and CHIP renewal? Renew your benefits on COMPASS .

Travel Medicine

Offering vaccinations recommended or required for travel to many overseas locations..

Our Travel Immunization Service provides vaccinations recommended and required for travel to many overseas locations. Patients often include missionary workers, business executives or business travelers, vacationers, adventure travelers and students studying abroad.

Travel Vaccines

The most frequently given vaccines are:

• Hepatitis A
• Tetanus and diphtheria
• Yellow fever
• Hepatitis B

To ensure immunization effectiveness, please contact us as soon as you have established your travel plans.

Pre-travel Medical Advice

We also provide pre-travel advice on a wide range of topics including:

• Food and water precautions
• Safe travel guidelines
• Malaria prevention
• Injury prevention and treatment
• Other illness prevention and treatment

We do not treat post-travel ailments.

Need Help? We're here.

For questions and assistance, please call the Tower Health helpline.

Accident & Emergency - Tourist Clinic

Emergency care service in Korčula

Accident & Emergency - Tourist Clinic is located in Korčula (Town in Croatia), Croatia. It's address is 20260, Korcula Old Town, Korčula, Croatia .

Questions & Answers

Where is accident & emergency - tourist clinic.

Accident & Emergency - Tourist Clinic is located at: 20260, Korcula Old Town, Korčula, Croatia.

What are the coordinates of Accident & Emergency - Tourist Clinic?

Coordinates: 42.9494678, 17.1359058

Accident & Emergency - Tourist Clinic Reviews

Suffering from ear infection from sea water. Clinic is only a 5min taxi from the marina. Taxi driver said it was closed on a Sunday, but that the A&E for locals was open and I could try my luck. I was greeted a few minutes after arriving by the nurse at reception. She kindly informed me that the clinic for tourists was closed on Sunday however encouraged me to come back 8am Monday to be seen by Dr Nenad Rkman. She even walked me to where i needed to go the next morning. I taxied back to the clinic at 7:30am the next morning assuming that there would other people wanting medical attention too. Sure enough, there are several locals sitting outside Dr Rkman’s door. He came out within a few minutes to call in another patient. It was at the time that he acknowledged me and noted that the nurse (from yesterday) had informed him that I was coming in at 8am that day. I was impressed with that! The doctor called me in 5-7 minutes later. Asked me where I was from (New Zealand), said his favourite rugby team was the All Blacks and how he played rugby when he was younger. Checked my ears, gave me a prescription, prepared paperwork for my insurance claim and took payment of 60 euros (cash). I was out of there by 8:15am and off the pharmacy. All-in-all a positive and straight forward experience.

Our local tour leader called these guys out as my wife had been vomiting all night and it wouldn’t stop. They came quickly and transported her back to emergency rooms to provide meds and fluids. We have travel insurance so tfr was covered (cost 195 euro) and so was treatment (cost 65 euro). Gave us some extra meds for later if she was still having issues. It is 10 euro taxi ride from Old Town so better option if you can do it. My wife was very sick so wasn’t for us. Very caring and thorough in the service they provide.

I had ear plugged with water and was there, the examination went quickly and in a very nice way, the doctor and the nurse waited for me despite the end of the day, regards respect

The best professional assistance you can dream of if you need medical help in Korcula. The staff is very kind and has a great approach to children.

I was here in July 2020 and I can deem for sure that I’ve never been medically treated so well like here. The doctor Lea Peretić was extremely professional, painstaking, diligent, patient, kind and available to listen to my doubts and to pay attention to my concerns about my health. It was a pleasure to be examined and nursed by her and her assistant (Katarina, if I remember correctly the name). Direct message: I wish you and your assistant the best for your professional and personal future, you definitely deserve it! Thank you very much again for having saved my holidays.

Friendly and Efficient doctors Helped immediately

Thanks for your help!

Sve pohvala doktorici Lindi Vobner i medicinskoj sestri Ani Zlokić. Vrlo strpljive, tople, stručne i nježne ruke

Eccellente servizio per professionalità e gentilezza. Siamo andati per mio figlio di 3 anni che lamentava male all’orecchio. Attesa giusta in relazione alle persone presenti. La Dottoressa che lo ha visitato è stata molto accurata e molto carina (gli ha anche messo le canzoni per bambini). Diagnosi e cura corrette. Davvero complimenti!

Изглежда чисто. Не ни извадиха морски таралеж, а не ни предписаха ихтиол.

Very unprofessional and unfriendly service, no information in english, although it is tourist clinic, as you can see in the front of it. I absolutely do not recommend this place. They were annoyed that we came and ask us to live, because no one is allowed during pandemic to go in. It's an absurd.

Write a review of Accident & Emergency - Tourist Clinic

Accident & emergency - tourist clinic directions, about korčula.

Korčula is a town on the east coast of the island of Korčula, in Croatia, in the Adriatic. source

Top Rated Addresses in Korčula

Konoba Maslina

Konoba "Andiamo"

Port of Trpanj

Trstenica Beach

Hotel Faraon

Konoba Škojera Trpanj

Old Captains Restaurant

Car ferry terminal

Port Orebić

Addresses near korčula.

STUDENAC MARKET

Korčula.

Curzola Store

• Insurance Categories
• Visiting the US without Medical emergency insurance

Medical emergency without US visitor insurance

Compare and buy us travel insurance, what does visitor travel insurance cover.

Covers hospital expenses for sickness or accidents.

Insures Doctor visits for sudden injury or sickness.

Doctor prescribed eligible pharmacy drugs expenses.

Some plans insure acute onset of pre-existing conditions.

Medical evacuation expenses to nearest facility included.

Repatriation of remains to home country included.

Where can a tourist without US visitor insurance go in case of emergency?

Is travel insurance required to enter the united states, how much does visitor health insurance cost.

Testimonials - From Our Customers

After rigorous searching for suitable student health insurances online, I stumbled upon the American visitor Insurance. Know more »

We really thank American insurance team for providing great assistance in taking the insurance. We were successfully. Know more »

Thank you American Visitor Insurance customer service for meticulously following through. I truly appreciate it. Know more »

Different types of US Visitors travel insurance

Fixed benefit vs Comprehensive plans

Fixed benefit travel health insurance.

A fixed benefit overseas travel insurance plan is the cheapest travel insurance plan option. Fixed benefit travel insurance is cheap because it has a fixed limit of coverage for different medical benefits. Fixed benefit plans work well in case of small ailments but can be inadequate in the event of a serious medical ailment or hospitalisation

Comprehensive travel health insurance

Comprehensive overseas travel insurance plans provide exhaustive coverage for health expenses up to the policy medical maximum amount. In contrast to fixed benefit plans there are so limits for each benefit. Comprehensive travel insurance is more expensive when compared to fixed benefit plans but provides significantly better coverage in case of a medical emergency or hospitalisation.

Steps to buy US travel insurance online

Find best US Visitors medical insurance Complete the visitors insurance quote request form by providing travel & insurance requirements.

Compare different visitor health insurance plans Compare different visitors health insurance prices and benefits that satisfy your specific requirements.

Buy the travel medical insurance you like best Buy the plan that fits your requirements best using a credit card to make an informed decision.

Review the visitors insurance documents Review the visitors insurance documents for all relevant details & download the visa letter if required.

Factors that determine the cost of US travel insurance plans

Age of the traveler.

The cost of travel insurance is directly proportional to the age of the traveler. The older the traveler and greater will be the cost of the visitors health insurance.

Type of travel insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance which provide exhaustive coverage are more expensive than fixed benefit travel insurance.

Medical maximum coverage and deductible options

The price of visitors medical insurance is directly dependant on the maximum medical coverage and inversely proportional to the deductible of the plan chosen.

Region of coverage

Travel insurance depends on the coverage region. The cost for visitor health insurance for the United States is most expensive.

Duration of travel insurance

The longer the duration of visitor medical insurance required, the higher will be the cost.

Any add on benefits

Additional add-on benefits like adventure sports coverage … will increase the cost of coverage.

Best Seniors travel insurance with Pre-existing Conditions Coverage

Pre-existing condition is a medical ailment that existed before the travel insurance became effective. Another term that we come across more frequently in insurance policies is "Acute onset of pre-existing condition" .Acute onset of pre-existing condition is a sudden relapse of the pre-existing condition without advance warning which requires medical attention within 24 hours.

Travelers with pre-existing conditions always find it hard to buy travel health insurance. Some of the common conditions that are considered as pre-existing conditions are asthma, food & drug allergies, environmental allergies, heart related issues, high blood pressure, kidney disease, cancer, and diabetes. Typically all insurance providers have their terms and conditions for the pre-existing condition coverage provided. Most do not cover anything related to a pre-existing condition. Travelers can buy a travel insurance policy without a medical check, however chronic illnesses like cancer, parkinson's disease, Amnesia...which cannot be cured are not covered by the travel health insurance policies. With the pre-existing condition there is a "look back" period of 60-180 days to determine the claim. Most of the Insurance providers consider the age of the individual as a factor for providing this benefit. Most of the policies do not provide coverage for pre-existing conditions at the age of 70 and more.

Some US insurance providers offer senior citizen travel insurance for pre-existing conditions above the age of 80 with fixed or limited coverage. The Safe Travels USA, Safe Travels USA Cost Saver, and Safe Travels USA Comprehensive all offer $1000 coverage for pre-existing conditions without limitation to chronic illness. If travelers have a medical condition they are concerned about, it is very important for them to buy a policy that includes the illnesses in the coverage and to be aware of the terms of pre-existing condition coverage.

INF is one of the few companies which offers travel insurance plans for travelers with flexible coverage for pre-existing ailments. They define pre-existing conditions differently and do not exclude chronic illness. First of all, if the person has had no flare up or change in their condition, even if they take medication for it (as long as there has been no change in medication) for 12 months prior to the start of the plan, then the plan does not consider it as a pre-existing condition. If there has been a flare up or change in the condition, then it is covered but at a lower maximum than the overall maximum of the plan and may be subject to a higher deductible.

They have two plans which have this coverage: INF Premier and INF Elite. The Premier plan is a fixed plan which has limitations on the coverage of each medical expense. The Elite plan is an 80/20 comprehensive plan (the plan pays 80% and the insured 20% after the deductible). INF offers the best travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions but the difference is reflected in the cost, particularly in the Elite plan. Note that regularly needed maintenance medications or treatments are still not covered with these plans, only if there is a new problem will there be coverage. However, the problem does not need to be life-threatening or acute. Travelers with pre-existing conditions should weigh these options to reduce their risk of high medical costs should they suffer from one of their conditions while traveling. Note that the plans need to be purchased for at least 90 days, so these are more suitable for longer term stays in US, Canada, and/or Mexico. Also, the plans may be purchased by green card holders as long as they have a non-US residence address. The Elite plan has several variations: INF Elite , Elite Plus and INF Elite 90 .

To compare the best travel insurance for seniors visiting USA for flexible pre-existing conditions plans offered by INF, use this link: INF Premier & INF Elite best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions.

Pre-existing conditions visitors insurance

Tips for travelers with pre-existing conditions.

Here are some travel insurance tips for travelers with pre-existing conditions

• Choose a travel medical insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage.
• Read the policy carefully to understand what is covered and what is not.
• Be aware of look back period for coverage of pre-existing conditions.
• Consider buying an US travel health insurance plan with higher medical coverage.
• Keep a copy of your medical records and list of medications when you travel.
• Take your Doctor's prescription and medications during your trip.
• Learn how to access healthcare at your destination.
• Contact your US traveler insurance provider immediately in case of a medical emergency.
• Disclose all pre-existing conditions when purchasing visitor health insurance.
• Follow all procedures while submiting a claim.

What is visitors insurance for pre-existing conditions?

There are many health insurance for us visitors options for international travel. However, many usa travel insurance for visitors plans exclude pre-existing conditions. Hence the traveler insurance will not cover the costs of treating a pre-existing medical condition. However at American Visitor Insurance, we offer some travel medical insurance plans that have coverage for pre-existing conditions and the policy clearly states what is covered for a pre-existing conditions, as well as specifying a limit to this coverage.

Some travel health insurance plans like Atlas America , Patriot America Plus offer coverage for an acute onset of a pre-existing conditions, ie, when there is a sudden medical emergency without any prior symptom that needs to be treated immediately. This typically includes emergency medical treatment, hospitalization and evacuation expenses related to the acute onset of the pre-existing condition. INF insurance however has the INF Elite insurance which covers pre-existing conditions going beyond the acute onset coverage. It is important to compare visitors insurance for pre-existing conditions on American Visitor Insurance both for the price as well as pre-existing conditions coverage before making a decision.

How does travel insurance for pre-existing conditions work?

The travel health insurance plans which cover pre-existing conditions have clear definitions of what is a pre-existing condition, the look back period for pre-existing condition, whether the travel insurance coverage is limited to acute onset of pre-existing conditions, and if it provides full coverage for pre-existing conditions the coverage limit within the policy for pre-existing conditons. Any travel health insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions will depend on all these.

Factors to consider while purchasing visitors health insurance for pre existing conditions?

The following are important factors for buying travel insurance for pre-existing conditions

• The definition of pre-existing conditions and the look back period under the policy.
• The eligibility age limit for pre-existing conditions coverage.
• Whether pre-existing condition coverage is limited to acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
• The coverage limit for pre-existing conditions which is different from the policy medical maximum.
• The deductible and out of pocket expenses for pre-existing conditions coverage.

Why is health insurance for travel to USA with pre-existing conditions coverage important?

Traveling anywhere outside worldwide is supposed to be an eye opening, special and a relaxed trip experience. Traveling with a health condition brings in more challenges in order to get covered for the unexpected medical expense in case of odd surprises during the trip. This calls out for an insurance plan that covers the pre-existing conditions that will relieve the unnecessary stress of taking extra care of yourself during your most memorable travel experience.

The plans also will be expensive considering the risks involved to cover pre-existing conditions. Many of the travel insurance plans exclude pre-existing conditions. At American Visitor Insurance we offer plans that cover acute onset of pre-existing conditions as well as some cover full pre-existing conditions.

Pre-existing conditions coverage - FAQ's

01.  how do i know if my pre-existing condition is covered by travel insurance.

Unfortunately, this simple question has a fairly complicated answer. The answer is: it depends. Firstly, it depends on whether you are a US resident traveling outside the US or a visitor to the US. US residents can purchase trip cancellation insurance that can cover pre-existing conditions and even plans that are travel medical only without cancellation often are more generous in their coverage of pre-existing conditions. These plans may have specific requirements in order to waive the usual exclusion of coverage for pre-existing conditions (like purchase them within a certain number of days of your initial trip deposit or that you have a primary domestic insurance plan in the US), so you should check these details carefully if this is important to you.

Non-US residents or US residents traveling into the US have much more limited options to insure their pre-existing conditions are covered. Some plans offer coverage for "acute onset" of pre-existing conditions. However, this is misleading, since a careful look at their definition excludes chronic or congenital disorders from such coverage. Chronic illnesses are those that worsen over time and congenital disorders are issues one is born with. They exclude emergencies due to chronic illness because they will say that is not "acute" it is simply a worsening of your condition. There are only two policies we know of that offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. They are INF Premier and INF Elite plans.

Firstly, they define pre-existing conditions in the following way: A pre-existing condition is a condition for which the insured received treatment or took medication for in the previous 12 months before the start of the policy. If the medication dosage has not changed and is taken as a maintenance medication, this would NOT count as a flare up or treatment of the condition. In that case, very stable conditions that have no flare ups in the past 12 months are not even excluded as pre-existing conditions. Conditions that have had flare ups or doctor recommended treatment or change in medication, are still covered by the plans but with a higher deductible and a lower maximum.

INF Elite (also INF Elite 90 ) are comprehensive plans offering fairly complete coverage. INF Premier is a fixed plan. Find details on these plans here.

The above plans must be purchased for at least 90 days and can be quite pricey for seniors, but they offer the only real coverage for chronic conditions.

The other option, of course, is to take a plans with little ($1K) or no coverage for pre-existing conditions and take a risk that that condition will not flare up during the trip.

02.  What does full coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions mean?

INF plans boast they offer "full" coverage for pre-existing conditions. This can be a little misleading. Firstly, any regular treatment or medication that is required by the condition is never covered. The main advantage to the INF Elite and INF Premier is that they cover sudden illness/injury regardless of whether it is pre-existing or not. The only difference is that a pre-existing condition will be covered with a higher deductible at at a lower maximum than any other "new" illness or injury. However, coverage is not limited to an emergency or life-threatening situation.

03.  What does "acute onset of pre-existing conditions" mean?

The "Acute Onset of a Pre-Existing Condition" is a sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence of a pre-existing medical condition which occurs without any advance warning either in the form of physician recommendations or symptoms and requires immediate care (within 24 hours of first symptoms). A Pre-Existing Condition that is a chronic or congenital condition or that gradually becomes worse over time will not be considered acute onset.

The acute onset coverage benefit does not include coverage for known, scheduled, required, or expected medical care, drugs or treatment existent or necessary prior to the effective date of coverage. An example of this might be someone who has a food allergy or bee allergy and is unknowingly exposed to their allergen and requires immediate medical attention.

04.  What is the difference between Full Pre-Existing & Acute Onset Insurance?

Acute onset of a pre-existing condition can be defined as the sudden & unexpected occurrence of a pre-existing condition which requires in-patient, emergency hospitalization within 24 hours of exhibiting first symptoms. The main difference between acute onset & full pre-existing is that with Full Pre-Existing coverage, is that one is covered for all pre-existing conditions and associated medical costs and this includes follow up visits, hospitalizations and doctor’s visits, etc. The acute onset coverage will only cover the in-patient hospitalization expense.

05.  What are the limits of Full Pre-Existing plans under INF travel insurance?

Full Pre-existing means we will cover any issue regarding a pre-existing condition, however, if one is traveling to the United States solely for medical treatment, that will not be covered. INF plans do not cover any medical tourism related claims. Pre-existing conditions under the INF plans are covered with a higher deductible and a lower maximum than other illnesses or injuries. These are chosen or specified when you purchase you plan.

06.  Do INF travel insurance plans really cover all pre-existing conditions?

Yes, the INF policies will cover any pre-existing issue that the traveler may have during their stay in the United States. This includes blood pressure, diabetes, kidney related issues and arthritis, all of which are covered by the INF Premier , INF Premier Plus , INF Elite , INF Elite Plus and INF Elite 90 Plans.

07.  Why are Full Pre-Existing plans more expensive than other visitor medical insurance usa plans?

The insurance company takes on an enormous risk by insuring individuals and including coverage for pre-existing conditions without any prior medical examination. Under the INF plans, you are paying more, but you are getting the full value for the money you pay given the very high cost of US healthcare. With the INF Premier , INF Premier Plus , INF Elite , INF Elite Plus and INF Elite 90 Plans, even though it is expensive, you can have the comfort of knowing that you are covered for any emergency or contingency. This peace of mind given the expensive US healthcare expense is what makes INF plans worth it despite being expensive.

08.  What services are covered under best travel insurance for usa visitors with full pre-existing coverage?

The list of covered services under Visitors insurance full pre-existing conditions coverage can be found on the American Visitor Insurance website of the INF Premier , INF Premier Plus , INF Elite , INF Elite Plus and INF Elite 90 Plan pages. INF plans are open to green card holders

What is the best US visitors insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage?

The best US visitors insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage is listed here :

• The INF Elite plans are designed for travelers who need coverage for full pre-existing medical conditions up to age 99 years. INF Elite plans are comprehensive plans available for people traveling to the US and provide flexible coverage. Minimum Purchase of 90 days is required on the plans.
• Safe Travels USA Comprehensive offers coverage for acute on set of pre-existing conditions up to 89 years. For persons under 70 covers medical treatment to policy maximum (cardiac-related treatment up to $25,000). For persons above 70 Acute Onset benefits is reduced to a maximum of $35,000 (cardiac-related treatment up to $15,000).
• Atlas America Insurance is a comprehensive visitor insurance for acute on set of pre-existing conditions that covers Non-US citizens and Non-US residents while visiting the US up to age 79 years. The plan provides acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions coverage..
• Patriot America plus is Comprehensive travel insurance covers acute on set of pre-existing conditions up to chosen maximum limit aged up to 70 years. This plan is available for Non US citizens travelling to the USA and US citizens and Non US citizens living abroad can buy this plan for visiting the US for short while. Plan is suitable for Green Card holders as long as they reside outside the US.
• Visitors Protect is Comprehensive visitor medical insurance offers pre-existing conditions up to age 99 years. Minimum Purchase of 90 days is required on the plan. It is an affordable plan for visitors visiting the US.
• Safe Travels USA is a cheap travel medical insurance plan that covers sudden, unexpected recurrence of a Pre-existing Condition for Non-US Citizens and Non-US Residents while visiting the USA up to 89 years.

Get quotes for visitor insurance!

Review and compare the best visitor health insurance

Medical emergency without US visitor insurance frequently asked questions

01. what travel insurance covers the usa.

There are many travel insurance plans offered by reputed US insurance providers with several medical maximum coverage and deductibles options as well as differing coverage for acute-onset of pre-existing conditions.

02. Can I still get travel insurance for the USA?

03. do i need medical insurance to travel to the us.

No, the US authorities do not mandate travel insurance for visiting on the tourist visa. However insurance is mandatory on certain visa’s like the J Visa. Irrespective of whether travel insurance is made compulsory, it is essential to have medical insurance when traveling to the US. Health Care in the US is very expensive and is available only for US citizens and residents living in the US. People going to the US must purchase travel medical insurance as it can be financially catastrophic if you visit and US hospital without any insurance..

04. Can I travel to the USA without travel insurance?

Definitely, one can travel to the US on a tourist visa without travel insurance, however it is very important to have travel medical insurance as it can be financially suicidal being admitted to an US hospital without any insurance. The healthcare costs in the US are extremely high and good travel insurance will put your mind at ease during your international travel.

05. Does travel insurance work in the US?

Yes. These travel insurance plans are from the reputed and popular private insurance companies in the US. These companies have been used for international travel for a long time now and has served many travelers over the years and have excellent rating and popularity. They are associated with the provider networks in the US which are popularly known as PPO networks such as First Health network, United Healthcare, Coventry healthcare...to name a few.

06. What is Visitor Insurance USA?

07. can a visitor get health insurance in usa.

Yes. Visitors, tourists, students, and others can all purchase health insurance in the US. We recommend the insurance be purchased from the day they leave their home country until they return, however, most companies allow you to purchase it even after the traveler has already started their journey.

08. How much travel insurance do I need?

The maximum of the plan that you purchase will depend on where you are going. For example, if you are headed to Europe or the Philippines, $50,000 may be enough for your trip. If you are going the the US or Canada, you may opt for a much higher maximum ($500,0000 or $1 million) if possible due to the higher potential cost of care in those countries.

09. Why do tourists need to buy medical insurance for visiting USA? What happens if a tourist gets sick in USA?

The above are common concerns of tourists visiting the United States. It is extremely important for US tourists to know that healthcare in the US is very expensive and that most US residents have health insurance to cover their medical expenses. Given this situation, it is important for US tourists to have the best travel insurance for US as they are fully responsible for any medical expenses that they incur in the country. Being forced to get medical treatment in usa without insurance can be financially catastrophic, and the best way to shield oneself from this situation is to buy US travel insurance for the entire duration of one’s visit to the country.

10. What happens if a tourist goes to the hospital in the US? Can a tourist get medical treatment in usa?

This is a common concern of foreigners traveling to the USA. Healthcare in the United States is very expensive and most US residents have health insurance to cover their medical expenses, hence it is important for US tourists to have the best travel insurance for USA to cover any medical expenses while in the country. Being forced to visit an US hospital to get medical treatment without insurance is financially catastrophic. The only way to shield oneself from unplanned medical expenses is to buy US travel insurance for the entire duration of one’s visit to the country.

11. How are tourist emergency hospital bills handled? What is involved in seeing a Doctor in the US as a tourist? How is the medical treatment for foreigners in USA handled?

This is a very important concern for all visitors to the US. US tourists should know that healthcare in the US is very expensive and that most US residents have health insurance to cover their medical expenses. Given this situation, it is important for US tourists to have the best travel insurance for US as they are fully responsible for any medical expenses that they incur in the country. Being forced to get medical treatment in usa without the best travel insurance can be financially catastrophic, and the best way to shield oneself from this situation is to buy US travel insurance for the entire duration of one’s visit to the country.

Visitors insurance blogs and articles

Affordable travel insurance buy online.

Fixed benefits US travel insurnace have specific benefit limits for different covered medical expenses.

Best international travel insurance

We also offer international travel insurance plans covering pre-existing conditions which many older travelers look for.

Compare US travel insurance online

Compare quotes online for best travel insurance and comparison of travel insurance from top rated insurance providers.

Importance of US travel insurance, US travel insurance cost

Common us healthcare terms of travel insurance.

Deductible is the amount that insured travelers need to pay for coverage before the travel insurance actually starts to pay for the healthcare services along with the co-pay or coinsurance. Travelers will need to pay the medical fees up to the amount of deductible and along with coinsurance and co-pay.

For example if the deductible amount is $1,500 then travelers need to pay up to $1,500, it is only after this amount is paid that the insurance plan stays paying. The Deductible is introduced to prevent frivolous claims.

Coinsurance is similar to co-pay in domestic US health insurance. Here the insured needs to pay a percentage of the total cost of the medical fee instead of paying a fixed amount. If you have 10% of coinsurance that the insured will have to pay 10% of the total cost of the bill .Co-insurance is paid on top of the Deductible. Typical Co-insurance ranges from 10% to 20%. The higher the co-insurance, the lower will be the cost of travel insurance.

Travelers can review the insurance glossary for travel to the USA to understand other terms and also check our travel insurance guide for easy understanding.

Riders – Riders are additional benefits that a traveler can purchase within the insurance policy. These are benefits that are usually not covered under the standard insurance policy. Depending on the need of the traveler, customers can add rider benefits at additional cost while buying the policy.

Copay or copayment is the fixed amount that the insured will have to pay for the medical service availed. The amounts would usually differ depending on the service availed.

Network and Out of Network - In US most hospitals have PPO networks .In the PPO network there are selected doctors and hospitals that have a working agreement with the insurance providers who charge the insurance provider directly and work out cheaper for the travelers. If the insurance provider is in the network they will provide a list of in network facilities so that the insured finds it easy to use the provider who can offer services.

Out of network insurance is literally when the customer goes to a healthcare facility outside of the covered network provider. In this situation, the insured will have to pay for the treatment themselves and then file a claim, this process might be confusing and sometimes out of network doctors and hospitals are more expensive and may even not be covered.

Pre-existing Conditions Coverage

Pre-existing condition is a medical ailment that existed before the start of the travel insurance cover. Acute onset of a pre-existing condition is a sudden relapse of the pre-existing condition without advance warning which requires medical attention within 24 hours.

Travelers with pre-existing conditions always find it hard to buy travel health insurance. There are various conditions that are considered as pre- existing diseases but some of common ailments in this category are Asthma, heart related issues, high blood pressure, kidney disease, cancer, diabetes etc. Typically all insurance providers have their terms and conditions for the pre-existing condition coverage provided. Travelers can buy a travel insurance policy without a medical check, however most insurance providers only provide coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions. With the pre-existing condition there is a "look back" period of 60-180 days to determine the claim. Most insurance providers offer health insurance coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions with fixed or limited coverage

If any of the travelers has one of these conditions it’s very important for them to buy a policy that includes the illnesses in the coverage and to be aware of the terms of pre-existing condition coverage.

INF is one of the few companies which offers USA travel insurance plans for visitors to the US with full coverage for pre-existing ailments. INF offers best travel insurance for pre existing medical conditions with full Pre-Existing conditions coverage. This means INF visitors insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage insures any in-patient, out-patient, urgent care, specialist, doctor visits, anything related to pre-existing conditions. INF insurance will cover any pre-existing conditions ranging from blood pressure, diabetes, to kidney complications and arthritis. All of these issues are covered by the INF Premier insurance and INF Elite Plan . Compare the best travel insurance for pre existing conditions.

Affordable insurance for visitors above 70 years of age

Senior Citizens who are 70 years of age are vulnerable to illness and are at high risk for travel sickness and injuries. While most insurance providers refuse or severely reduce coverage for travelers who are 70 years, there are a US insurance providers who insure older traveler’s . IMG in their Patriot America Plus Insurance offers coverage for up to $50,000 - $1000, 000 and World Trips in their Atlas America Insurance offers $50,000 - $2,000,000 coverage.

State Limitations on Travel Insurance

The US there are no federal policies that set the rules for the whole country, however different state have specific rules regarding travel insurance. There are few states with restricted rules like in Colorado Maryland, New York, South Dakota and Washington. These states prevent its residents and individuals with mailing address in these states from buying insurance plans from some companies. Travelers can check insurance restrictions of their insurance providers while buying the insurance.

Pre-approvals for medical treatment and Hospital Visits

Pre-approval commonly known as pre-authorization is a sanction provided by the insurance provider to obtain the medical treatment and hospital visits. The healthcare service workers like network providers, hospitals or doctor’s offices often choose to inform the insurance provider and get a pre-approval. In a case where the insured is using an out-network provider the insured will need to notify the insurance provider to get pre approval or pay and then apply for a reimbursement.

In situations like an admission at the hospital for overnight stay, Major Surgery, Prescription of expensive drugs, Medical appointment to a behavioural, physical, speech or occupational therapist for treatment all of this would typically require pre-approvals from the insurance provider.

Resourceful insurance for travellers benefits information to look out for while buying travel Insurance

Travelers can check if it’s covered while buying the insurance

• Acute onset of Pre-existing conditions, look back period
• Dental care for dental emergencies
• Skin care and dermatological problems
• Vision care except for treating eye injuries
• Preventative or routine health care coverage
• Injuries and illness due to terrorism or war
• Childbirth, pregnancy, and maternity
• Injury from high-risk sports
• Mental health care
• Injuries related to drugs and alcohol

Renewability and Deductible in an extended /renewed Travel insurance

Not all plans are renewable, so check on the renewability of the travel insurance plan. Most travel insurance plans can be extended based on the traveler’s requirement. When the policy is extended, the deductible is usually reset.

Multi-trip travel insurance

Regular or frequent travelers visiting the US can buy the annual multi-trip travel insurance plan. Here the traveler is insured for a whole year from the start of the plan, but each trip is limited to a certain length of stay outside the home country and are required to have a domestic health insurance.

Best health insurance for visitors to USA, Medical care for visitors in USA – Highlights

Us visitor healthcare cost.

High health care costs in US could be burdensome to a short term visitor.

Travel medical insurance

Offers coverage of sudden & unexpected illness while traveling away from your home country.

Pre-existing condition coverage

Find insurance plans providing comprehensive coverage for pre-existing conditions/ailments.

Senior citizens Insurance

A fall/illness could become more serious for the older traveler. Be sure you have good coverage.

International visitor travel health insurance resources

Visitor insurance resources

Travel insurance resources for emergency while outside your home country.

Factors for travel insurance

Factors to consider while deciding on the best visitor medical insurance.

Types of visitor insurance

Types of US visitor health insurance, fixed benefits vs comprehensive coverage.

Claims procedure

Insurance claims process for using insurance and getting healthcare in a hospital.

Healthcare for tourists in USA, Healthcare for visitors to USA

Travel insurance faq.

Commonly asked questions about travel insurance for visitors to the USA.

Travel Insurance Blog

Read insurance blogs related to best health insurance for visitors to USA.

Travel Insurance Forum

Customer queries and answers about insurance plans for visitors insurance USA.

Travel Insurance Claims

Helping travel insurance online claims process for getting medical care in a hospital.

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International Medical Insurance

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