Traveling to the US? Here’s why you shouldn’t skimp on travel insurance!

Flying to the US without insurance coverage can startle you with exorbitant medical bills and harassment if anything goes wrong.

By Chiranth Nataraj

If there is one reason to get an insurance plan while traveling to the US is to cover sky-high medical expenses. It is not a surprise that a trip to the doctor’s office in the US can cost hundreds of dollars. Although the US is a great holiday destination globally, it can financially crush you if you are not protected by a travel insurance plan.

Visitors must carry insurance that can safeguard them from unforeseen events like medical emergencies, sudden evacuations, hospital stays, contracting COVID-19, and more. Flying to the US without insurance coverage can startle you with exorbitant medical bills and harassment if anything goes wrong.

So, here are a few reasons why you should not skimp on travel insurance.

1. You are financially protected.

Travel insurance provides financial protection in case of unexpected medical incidents. Without insurance, you may be responsible for covering these costs out of pocket, which can be substantial and potentially ruin your travel budget. You may have to cut short your trip and return to your home country. Some plans can also cover trip-related expenses, which you can find out in the plan’s brochure.

2. You do not have to worry about medical emergencies.

Travel insurance offers coverage for medical emergencies that may occur during your trip. Having a travel insurance plan ensures that you have access to quality medical care without incurring overwhelming costs. The plan typically covers the expenses associated with hospitalization, including room charges, medical procedures, nursing care, and necessary medications. The coverage ensures that you can receive the required medical attention without incurring significant out-of-pocket expenses.

3. You can access doctors and other healthcare professionals.

Travel insurance often includes coverage for visits to doctors or specialists during your trip. Whether it is a routine check-up or a consultation for a new, unexpected illness or injury, the insurance will reimburse the cost of the visit, ensuring that you have access to the required medical care. If you require prescribed medications while traveling, travel insurance can cover the costs of these medications. In some cases, your chosen policy may also cover the expenses for necessary follow-up care or treatments related to a covered medical emergency that occurred during your trip. This can include post-hospitalization care, rehabilitation services, or subsequent medical visits.

4. You get the benefit of an emergency evacuation.

Emergency medical evacuation refers to the transportation of an insured member to the nearest qualified medical facility in case of a severe illness or injury that cannot be adequately treated at the current location. This coverage ensures that you receive prompt and appropriate medical care by facilitating your transportation to a facility with the necessary expertise and resources. It may involve ground transportation, such as an ambulance, or air transportation, such as medical air ambulances. The mode of evacuation will depend on the severity of the medical condition and the chosen plan. In certain cases, the coverage may also include repatriation benefits. Repatriation refers to the transportation of the insured’s mortal remains back to the home country.

5. You get 24/7 assistance in a foreign country.

Coverage for 24-hour assistance is a valuable feature included in many travel insurance plans. It provides access to a dedicated helpline that operates round-the-clock, offering immediate assistance and support to travelers in various situations. The service is available to travelers whenever they need help, regardless of the time zone or location. Whether it is a medical emergency or a travel-related question, you can contact the helpline to seek guidance and support.

The 24-hour assistance service can connect you with healthcare professionals who can provide guidance over the phone. They can help assess your situation, offer recommendations, and provide referrals to local medical facilities or doctors, ensuring you receive proper care. Plus, they can provide guidance and support for various travel-related issues, including assistance with lost passports or travel documents, guidance on embassy or consulate contacts, advice on navigating disruptions or delays, and assistance in arranging alternative travel methods.

Conclusion

When it comes to traveling to the US, do not let excitement blind you and leave your home without a comprehensive travel insurance plan. By shielding yourself from mishaps, you will be well prepared to handle whatever comes your way in an unfamiliar land. With travel insurance being more accessible and customizable nowadays, there is no reason to skimp on it and fly off to an international destination like the US. Buy one and have safe travels!

Read more from the author:

7 things to know before visiting the US in 2023 (January 23, 2023)

What are benefits of choosing visitor insurance plan with a PPO Network? (January 26, 2022)

Bringing parents to the US from India for a visit? Here are the 5 things you should consider (December 26, 2022)

What does Visitor insurance cover? (November 8, 2021)

Why is visitor health insurance recommended for travel to USA? (October 7, 2021)

How to buy the best health insurance for Indian students in the US (October 16, 2022)

Is health insurance mandatory for international students in the US? (September 11, 2022)