What you need to know about Health Insurance in Europe
What do you mean my health insurance doesn’t work in Europe (that includes some medicare recipients)?
Check your policy. You may have emergency coverage but not routine care. Be aware of deductibles and know the process for getting care before you go. Also, you may have to pay out of pocket for the coverage and then seek reimbursement.
Medicare parts A and B do not cover overseas travel. Some Medicare Advantage or Medigap supplemental plans may offer coverage however check before you leave.
In addition to emergency coverage you may want evacuation coverage if you are going to be on a cruise, in a remote location or need medical services that are not available in the local area (think air ambulance, transportation to larger, better equipped facilities, etc.)
TIP: if your health insurance is not as robust as you would like for overseas travel obtain a Travel Health Insurance Policy that will cover your trip, possibly one that includes evacuation coverage to the US or Canada.
TIP: When on a cruise medical attention while onboard the ship is not free. Also, Travel Insurance should cover evacuation from the ship to a land-based facility.
TIP: Be sure to carry information regarding medications, allergies and any specific health issues that a medical team may need to know. Your smart phone may be a great resource for a medical team unfamiliar with your medical history. Research available functionality and populate the phone with the critical data.
Review the following websites for useful information:
Traveling Outside the US with Medicare
How to place a call within Europe to a European phone number
