Retirees who travel should take certain precautions to ensure nothing goes wrong and they can enjoy the trip to the fullest. They have worked long and hard for companies, putting in their time to help the company. Now, they have the chance to venture out into the world, making their dreams come true. But what if someone falls? Would Medicare step in to cover the costs?
Retirees and Travel Worries
Don’t hope that your employees have medical assistance. Know what policies handle and discuss the impact of international and domestic travel. Not all medical care works the same, so understand what is available and how the coverage works.
Medicare Coverage During Travel
Medicare plans assist customers 65 and over. This federally-funded program offers several options that help with emergencies, regular appointments, and prescription costs. The basic policies, unbeknownst to most recipients, are not internationally accepted.
Foreign nations do not often accept U.S. government-based insurance. Expect to pay if you break a bone, suffer a heart attack, or lose your medications. For instance, policies A and B work within the United States as long as providers accept the plan. Naturally, retirees might expect their insurance to work from anywhere since other insurances may. However, government-issued care is just that–for territories of or within the U.S. Cruises to Mexico or a quick trip to Canada fall outside the coverage zone.
A few exceptions exist. Patients may receive care under a couple of circumstances. Insurance may kick in if you’re on a cruise traveling and need assistance within 6 hours of the port. In addition, those moving between states can relocate the foreign territory and receive coverage. Other than that, people may find themselves without help unless they take proactive steps before leaving.
Why Retirees Should Check Medicare Coverage Before Traveling
Retirement offers ample time to see new places and venture to other territories. After years of working, people finally have the chance to see the world, try new cuisines, and cross borders. However, before boarding a cruise or airplane, check your insurance coverage to see what it does and doesn’t cover. Vacations don’t want to return to fall massive medical bills.
Retirees should call the provider and discuss upcoming travels. Discover if insurance can help if illness or injury occurs. They can look into several options to bridge the gap if the plan cannot. Retirees may want to enroll in Medigap, a policy that works overseas for many emergencies.
In addition, they can purchase travel insurance or an Advantage plan. Keep in mind that these may not automatically pay. Instead, patients might pay upfront for service, seeking reimbursement from the insurer later. Retirees should consult with specialists before they leave and know their responsibilities. For example, they should always ask for an itemized receipt to validate medical claims.
Employees shouldn’t feel landlocked. Work with them to understand how Medicare functions overseas and how they can find ways to bolster their care when traveling.
About Brooks, Todd & McNeil
Since 1839, the independent agents at Brooks, Todd & McNeil have been pleased to offer our community the best and most affordable policies from a variety of providers. Our dedicated facilitators are ready to put their 75 years of combined experience to work on your claims. To learn more about our products and services, contact us today at (800) 448-4567.