Traveling to the United States can be an exciting experience, but unexpected medical situations can arise. Having visitor insurance can provide essential coverage for medical expenses during your stay.
In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about using visitor insurance, including seeing a doctor in the U.S. as a tourist, understanding coverage, and navigating the claims process.
Quick Summary
- Understanding what visitors insurance is and why it's essential for travelers to the U.S.
- Where to seek medical care in the U.S.
- How to use your visitors insurance card when seeking treatment
- How to submit an insurance claim and get reimbursed for medical expenses
What is Visitors Insurance?
Visitor insurance provides coverage for medical expenses incurred during a temporary stay in the United States.
Coverage can include emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and other medical care related to newly incurred illnesses or injuries during your trip.
Why Do Visitors to the U.S. Need Visitors Insurance?
For travelers who prioritize access to medical care while abroad, visitors insurance is essential. It offers comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, ensuring that you receive necessary treatment without worrying about exorbitant costs.
By investing in travel medical insurance, you can travel with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that you're protected in case of a medical emergency.
What Does Visitors Insurance Cover?
Before purchasing travel medical insurance, it's essential to understand what the policy covers and any limitations or exclusions.
Travel medical insurance typically covers:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization
- Prescription medications
- Emergency medical evacuation
However, it's important to note that travel medical insurance may not cover pre-existing conditions or routine medical care. Additionally, coverage limits and deductibles vary depending on the policy, so it's crucial to review the policy details carefully.
How to Find a Doctor or Hospital in the U.S.
If you require medical care while visiting the U.S., there are several options for seeking treatment. You can visit an urgent care center, walk-in clinic, or hospital emergency room for immediate medical needs.
For non-emergency issues, you may choose to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician or specialist. Many insurance providers offer online directories or mobile apps to help you find in-network doctors and hospitals in your area.
What Should I Do If I Need Emergency Care?
In the event of a medical emergency, it's essential to know how to seek help promptly.
Emergency 9-1-1
If you encounter a life-threatening situation or require immediate medical attention, dial 9-1-1 to contact emergency services. Emergency medical responders will assess the situation and provide assistance as needed, including transporting you to the nearest hospital for treatment.
Using Urgent Care Facilities
For non-life-threatening medical issues that require prompt attention but are not emergencies, urgent care facilities can provide convenient and timely care. Urgent care centers typically treat conditions such as minor injuries, infections, and illnesses that require medical attention within 24 hours but do not pose an immediate threat to life or limb.
Should I Choose 9-1-1 or Urgent Care?
It is essential to understand when to opt for 9-1-1 or to visit urgent care. When deciding whether to call 9-1-1 or visit an urgent care facility, consider the severity of your condition and the level of urgency. If you believe your condition requires immediate medical attention or if you are experiencing symptoms of a medical emergency, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, call 9-1-1 immediately.
If your condition is not life-threatening but requires medical attention sooner rather than later, consider visiting an urgent care facility. Urgent care centers offer walk-in appointments and shorter wait times than emergency rooms, making them a convenient option for non-emergency medical issues.
How to Use Your Visitors Insurance Card
When you visit a doctor's office or hospital, be sure to bring your insurance card and any necessary identification, such as a passport or driver's license.
Present your insurance card to the front desk or admissions staff, who will verify your coverage and proceed with scheduling your appointment or providing treatment. If you have a deductible or co-payment, be prepared to pay this amount at the time of service.
How Do I Submit an Insurance Claim?
After receiving medical treatment, the healthcare provider will typically bill your insurance company directly for the services provided. In some cases, you may need to pay for services upfront and submit a claim for reimbursement.
Pay the bill they ask you to and make sure to file a claim with your insurance to get reimbursed for the areas of the bill under your coverage plan. Be sure to keep copies of all medical bills, receipts, and other documentation related to your treatment to expedite the claims process.
Where Can I Find the Best Visitors Insurance?
Visitor insurance can provide invaluable peace of mind during your trip to the United States by offering coverage for unexpected medical expenses. By understanding your coverage, knowing where to seek care, and navigating the claims process effectively, you can ensure a smooth experience and focus on enjoying your time in the U.S.
If you feel like you still need help, rest assured that VisitorsCoverage is here to help in any way we can to secure the best visitors insurance. Feel free to reach out to our Customer Success Team to help clarify any questions or concerns you may have. We are always happy to help.
- Medical care in the United States is not free for visitors, making insurance essential to avoid high costs.
- When seeking medical treatment, always bring your insurance card and identification documents.
- Keep copies of all medical bills and documentation to facilitate the claims process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visitors Insurance
What is the best visitors insurance plan for visitors to the USA?
The best visitors insurance mostly depends on the coverage you need when visiting the U.S. Many of our customers’ testimonies have recommended that CoverAmerica-Gold is the best insurance plan for visitors to the U.S. because of its affordability, strong coverage limits, and benefits.
However, when you are comparing visitors insurance plans, it is always best to contact the insurance provider to discuss your coverage needs so they can help find the best plan for you.
How much is visitors insurance for the U.S.?
The cost of visitors insurance is based on age, coverage amount, plan type, trip duration, and deductible. Here is a general estimate for a 30-day trip to the U.S.:
- Ages 20-40: $50-150
- Ages 41-60: $80-250
- Ages 61-70: $150-400
- Ages 71+: $300+
Comprehensive coverage costs more than limited plans but offers better protection. Getting a personalized quote is recommended for accurate pricing.
Are pre-existing conditions covered under visitors insurance?
Sometimes. While standard visitor insurance won't cover routine care for pre-existing conditions, there are specialized plans that will cover medical emergencies due to pre-existing conditions. We suggest that the best travel medical insurance for pre-existing conditions is INF Elite X.
Can I buy visitors insurance after arriving in the U.S.?
Yes, you can. While it's not recommended, you can get travel medical insurance even if your parents' trip has already started or they are in the US already. However, insurance coverage will start 24 hours after you have purchased the plan.
What happens if a visitor gets sick in the U.S. without insurance?
Without insurance, visitors to the U.S. can experience paying out-of-pocket for potentially high medical bills. Since the U.S. does not provide universal healthcare, bills, prescriptions, and follow-up care are the visitor’s responsibility. However, an insurance plan can help cover the cost of the majority of your medical treatment.
Can my parents use visitors insurance even if I bought it for them?
Yes. If you purchase a visitors insurance plan for your parents, they can absolutely use the plan as long as their names are attached to the policy.
How to get blood work done for a foriegn visitor in the US?
With travel insurance, if you go to urgent care or visit a doctor and they order blood work or refer you to a blood test clinic, your plan can cover your blood work costs. Just make sure you hold onto the official doctor's notes and orders so you can submit them during your claims.
Can visitor insurance for parents be extended?
Typically yes, as long as you request the extension before your current coverage expires and you haven't filed any claims or aren't currently being treated for something. Most plans let you extend online or by calling customer service. Just don't wait until the last minute. Request it a few days before your coverage ends to avoid any coverage gaps.
