Travel Medical Insurance 101
What is the average cost of travel medical insurance?
The cost of travel insurance varies based on several factors including length of trip, number of trips per year, as well as the age, gender, and smoker status of the person being insured. The best way to find out about the cost is to request a quote to account for your specific circumstances.
Is it mandatory to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is not mandatory. However, it is recommended because your health insurance may not cover the costs of care and treatment outside of your home province and country. Travel insurance can also provide extended benefit such as COVID-19 coverage, which includes hotel quarantining costs.
What happens if I travel without travel medical insurance?
If you travel without travel medical insurance and you become ill or get into an accident while abroad, you will be personally responsible to pay all medical care costs. If you are travelling in the US, these costs can be substantial, and you may even be refused care if you are not able to pay.
Does travel medical insurance cover COVID-19?
Yes, it is possible to buy travel medical insurance which includes covering the costs related to the treatment and care relating to COVID-19 infection. It may not automatically be included in your plan, so make sure to ask if this coverage is included and if not, request to find an insurer who will provide it.
Healthcare Access Insurance 101
What does healthcare access insurance cover?
Healthcare access insurance is insurance that facilitates and pays for the treatment of an illness or condition outside of Canada. For example, if you are diagnosed with cancer, you can elect to be treated by any of the top-rated hospitals in the United States. The policy pays the medical expenses for you, and travel expenses for you and a travel companion. They will also assist in identifying the appropriate care facility for your specific condition and make all necessary arrangements to ensure a worry-free trip.
Does my health insurance cover me in another country?
Yes, it does. However, it will only cover you to the extent of the cost of providing that care in Canada and you will have to apply to your provincial plan for reimbursement once you have paid the full cost. You will never know how much you will get back until they approve or decline your claim.
Is healthcare access insurance the same as travel medical insurance?
Healthcare access insurance is different from travel medical insurance. Travel medical insurance only covers you while you are travelling outside of your province. Healthcare access insurance covers you 24/7 wherever you are and allows you to seek treatment outside of the country if you choose to do so. Healthcare access coverage has a deductible and covers all conditions. Travel medical insurance does not have a deductible and covers only those conditions which arise while travelling outside of your home province.
Can I get health insurance if I live abroad?
Yes, however it will vary country by country.
Does healthcare access insurance cover COVID-19?
Yes, it does cover COVID-19 when travelling abroad. However, it will not provide a benefit if COVID-19 is contracted in your home province as you will not be able to travel to any other jurisdiction for treatment due to travel restrictions related to COVID-19.
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