Traveling as a senior, especially in your retirement years, can be an exciting and relaxing experience. However, U.S. seniors who are traveling abroad may have concerns about their health and insurance coverage abroad.
Many seniors over 65 in the United States may be insured through Medicare, which generally doesn’t offer coverage abroad.
However, Medicare Advantage can offer some level of emergency medical coverage internationally, although it is limited and may not be adequate for certain situations.
Paired together, Medicare Advantage and travel insurance can offer comprehensive coverage for seniors traveling outside the United States for the ultimate peace of mind.
What Is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Part C, is an alternative to traditional Medicare (Part A and Part B). Medicare Advantage consists of coverage provided by private insurance companies that are approved under the Medicare program.
Medicare Advantage combines the benefits of both Part A and Part B, and often includes additional coverage such as medications, vision, dental, hearing, and wellness programs.
It is typically an option for seniors looking for more comprehensive coverage, additional benefits, and lower out-of-pocket costs.
Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cover International Travel?
Medicare Advantage plans generally do not offer coverage for medical expenses incurred internationally. However, there are some Medicare Advantage plans that offer limited coverage for medical emergencies outside of the U.S.
Even for Medicare Advantage plans that do offer emergency medical coverage outside of the United States, it is important to note that this coverage is often very limited, with low coverage maximums and restrictions.
Medicare Supplemental coverage is another option for those under Medicare Advantage if they want to add international coverage to their plan. However, this can heavily increase your monthly premium, so it may not be suitable for individuals who don’t travel internationally frequently.
For individuals on Medicare Advantage, it is highly recommended to supplement your insurance with a travel medical insurance policy for any trips outside of the United States to ensure that you have no gaps in coverage abroad.
What Is Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is a form of short-term medical coverage that can protect U.S. travelers as they venture outside of their home country.
It can offer coverage for emergency medical expenses incurred from an unexpected illness or injury abroad, including hospitalization, surgery, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation, and much more.
Many travel insurance plans offer excellent policy maximums and benefits that are best suited for US seniors who are traveling internationally.
Senior travel insurance can ensure that you have a safeguard when venturing beyond the borders of the United States in the event that you fall ill or have an accident and need medical attention, without having to worry about whether or not Medicare Advantage will cover you.
Travel Insurance Can Supplement Medicare Advantage
Considering the low coverage limits of international medical expenses for many Medicare Advantage plans, relying on this protection alone can leave seniors vulnerable to an overwhelming financial burden if something goes wrong during your trip.
Although no one wants to think the worst when planning a vacation, accidents do happen, and can increase in probability as we age.
Travel insurance can act as supplementary insurance to a Medicare Advantage plan that offers limited international coverage, providing benefits for any eligible expenses not covered by your Medicare plan.
You’ll also receive the many added benefits of a senior travel insurance plan, such as:
- Repatriation of remains
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Travel assistance and translation services
- Lost checked baggage
- Border entry protection
- Accidental death and dismemberment
What Is the Best Travel Insurance for Seniors?
When choosing a senior travel insurance plan, it is best to consider certain factors like your overall health, age, benefits you desire, and your budget.
The best travel insurance plan will include a good overall policy maximum and the right coverage for your specific needs. For example, if you are worried about pre-existing conditions, you may opt for a plan that offers this benefit.
The following plans may be a good fit for US seniors on Medicare who are traveling abroad.
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