Medicare Doesn't Travel With You. Here's What Actually Happens If You Get Sick on a Trip Abroad
Many retirees dream of traveling more often the moment they stop working. But if any of those trips include overseas destinations, it’s important to remember that Medicare won’t travel with you.
For the most part, Medicare doesn’t cover costs incurred by an illness or injury when you are out of the country. Here’s what to know, and how to keep yourself (and your wallet) safe.
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What Medicare covers abroad, and what it usually doesn’t
Original Medicare typically does not cover health-related incidents that take place outside the U.S. and its territories. That means you need different coverage for most foreign countries. There are some exceptions, such as certain emergencies near the U.S. border or care in Canada while traveling between Alaska and another state.
Even when Medicare may cover something that takes place outside of the U.S. or its territories, you may still have to pay the bill yourself and file a claim later. This can come as a big shock to retirees who expected Medicare to cover all of their health-related expenses for the rest of their lives, including those when traveling.
What happens if you need care overseas
If you get sick or injured overseas, you will likely have to pay the hospital or other medical expenses out of pocket. The total costs will vary significantly based on where the health issue takes place and the severity of your condition.
If you need medication, make sure you pack enough with you before your trip. Medicare Part D does not cover drugs purchased outside the U.S., so you may end up with higher bills if you need to purchase anything outside of the country.
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Medigap, Medicare Advantage and travel insurance
You don’t have to go on an international trip uninsured. While Medicare won’t be enough, there are options. Some Medigap plans included limited foreign travel emergency coverage, with the total coverage varying for each Medigap plan, as outlined by Medicare.
Medicare Advantage can also offer some coverage, but you should check the plan’s Evidence of Coverage before leaving. Travel medical insurance can fill in gaps. However, this is a different policy from trip cancellation insurance. If you are an older traveler, it may be worth paying the extra premiums for medical evacuation coverage.
Travel health insurance will vary based on your policy and provider, but it will often cover medical emergencies abroad, including visits to the doctor, hospital stays and medications.