In the travel insurance industry, claims are denied based on the terms of the agreement outlined in the insurance plan documents. A claim denial can be disappointing to a traveler counting on getting their money back, but here’s something you may not know – just because your claim was denied doesn’t mean that’s the final answer.
There are many simple reasons a claim may be initially denied: clerical mistakes, miscommunications, etc. A traveler facing a travel insurance claim denial has two options: accept the loss, or file an appeal. The appeal process is a valid part of claims handling for any reputable travel insurance provider.
When a traveler wants the claim to be re-examined by the insurance company, it’s important to act quickly and communicate your legitimate reasons for filing an appeal.
Start by Understanding Why the Claim was Denied
When an insurance claim is denied, you receive some formal communication explaining the denial. Often, when you read the reason, you understand what you need to do to fix the situation.
Sometimes, claims are denied for lack of documentation and in that case, you can obtain the appropriate documents and send them with the appeal. In some cases, the insurance company has trouble getting the documents they need from a foreign medical provider. This is why it’s important to obtain good quality copies of any documents you need to make a claim when you are in the hospital or doctor’s office.
If you submitted all the documentation requested and your claim was denied, you will need to review your travel insurance plan documents. These outline the contract between you and the insurance company. If the document says pre-existing conditions are not covered (and most do unless you buy additional coverage) and your claim was the result of an acute onset of a pre-existing medical condition, then the claim denial is correct according to the terms of your contract.
Additional Reading: Top 5 Reasons Why Travel Medical Insurance Claims are Denied
What is an Appeal in Terms of Travel Insurance?
An appeal is a formal request issued in writing to the travel insurance company asking for the claims to be re-considered. To successfully file an appeal, the traveler should re-submit copies of the supporting documents (invoices, receipts, doctor’s notes, etc.) with the appeal. The travelers should also carefully outline the reason they are making an appeal; point to specific sections of their travel insurance plan’s description of coverage and a specific request that the denial be reversed and the claim be paid.
What is the Appeal Process – How Do You File an Appeal?
The appeal process depends on the reason for the claim denial. If, for example, your claim was denied for lack of supporting documentation you can obtain that documentation yourself and submit the claim again for reevaluation. If you don’t understand the reason for denial, call the international travel medical insurance company and ask for an explanation. In some cases, this can clear up the situation and help the insurance company process the claim.
It’s important to find the best travel medical insurance for travelers visiting the U.S. since medical costs can be financially devastating. Visit our best visitors insurance for the U.S. section to find the right coverage for you. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact our award-winning Customer Service Team.
