By Trish Pearson
Insuring Your Future
Trish Pearson
Learning to live with COVID now includes making travel plans. People are scheduling travel that was planned two years ago, including trips out of the country. As a result, several questions have arisen regarding what travel insurance will cover.
Airlines and many countries are requiring proof of vaccination, and some countries are requiring a negative test within a certain timeframe. Both of these expenses are covered by health insurance. COVID-related cancelation is covered under most travel insurance policies. In other words, if you have to cancel/postpone a trip because of a positive COVID diagnosis, any non-refundable costs would be covered.
The cost of medical care due to COVID is covered the same as any other illness that requires medical attention during the course of the trip. Some countries are requiring proof of “COVID” coverage. Because we are still considered to be in a pandemic situation, they can require such proof as it relates to that specific condition. In most cases, a person’s regular health insurance will cover expenses for treatment in another country, including COVID-related illnesses. The challenge is that the facility may not have a way to process a claim, so they will require payment up front. The traveler may then ask to be reimbursed by their insurance carrier after returning home. Always keep receipts for any payment to a doctor, hospital, clinic or pharmacy.
Travel insurance is highly recommended for anyone traveling outside the US. It should include protection for lost luggage, missed connections and trip cancelation as well as emergency medical assistance.
Depending on where you are, the medical facility may not accept your health insurance. So be prepared to pay out of pocket and then request reimbursement. If you have a deductible as part of your health plan, the travel policy will cover most, if not all, of the expense. Make sure that the policy includes emergency evacuation to a larger medical facility.
The premiums are based on the length, value of the trip and your age. Companies offer a variety of packages based on the maximum limits for various coverages. The trip cancelation benefit is determined by the amount of benefit purchased. Generally, the cost is a small price to pay for protection in the event of an unexpected medical incident. Some plans will also assist with transport and delivery of forgotten passports.
Travel insurance can be purchased from an insurance agent or travel agent. Some airlines and credit card companies also offer plans, but they may not include comprehensive medical coverage. There are certain guidelines about when to purchase travel insurance. The usual recommendation is to buy it within the month you’re going to travel.
Don’t let fear of unexpected circumstances – including COVID – keep you from planning that trip. Just make sure to take proper precautions and purchase travel insurance so that an unexpected event doesn’t cost you anything but aggravation. Enjoy the summer, stay safe and don’t forget to wear sunscreen.
Trish Pearson is a licensed independent insurance agent and certified long term care specialist. Contact her at 203-640-5969 or trishpearson281@gmail.com.