Recently, my friend had to go abroad to attend a seminar, and during his trip, he had to be hospitalised in an emergency due to some serious health issues. After he returned, he explained to me how his travel medical insurance became a life-saver during the hospitalisation process, and that left me surprised, as I always thought travel insurance was not that important.Keep reading to learn more.
What are the Medical Benefits of International Travel Insurance?
Buying international travel insurance and enjoying its medical benefits at ease is an important step for the reasons stated below.
● Hospitalisation Coverage
Hospitalisation coverage can be of two types- one is pre-hospitalisation coverage, and the other is post-hospitalisation coverage. Emergencies can happen anytime and anywhere, so be ready to combat such situations with such coverage. Under this coverage, all your hospitalisation expenses will be covered by your insurer. The coverage duration differs from one insurer to another, so choose an insurance policy wisely.
● OPD Treatment
Travel insurance covers OPD treatment expenses like doctor consultation fees, pharmacy expenses, diagnostic tests, and other in-patient treatments. It also covers costs for outpatient treatments. A small medical problem can lead to a serious issue, so you must prepare for every type of urgency.
● Accidental Expenses
Life is unexpected; accidents can happen anywhere, so buy international travel insurance to get comprehensive coverage for accidental expenses. You must note that every insurer sets different sums of insurance, so conduct thorough research before buying one. Some insurance providers offer this coverage, including disability, accidental death, dismemberment coverage, etc.
● Physiotherapy Expenses
If you get hurt during your trip days, the physiotherapy cost will be covered by your insurer. You must note that this coverage can be enjoyed only by the insured.
● Emergency Trip Extension
There may arise a situation where you or your co-traveller are ill or injured and have to stay in a hotel for extra days. In such scenarios, your insurance provider will pay for the additional expenses, but the amount is up to the specifics of the policy schedule. However, the maximum amount of consideration will differ from one insurance provider to another.
● Repatriation of Mortal Remains
If an insured person faces any unforeseen demise during their trip, the insurance company will transport the deceased's remains from that country to their motherland. In addition to making the total transportation arrangements, the insurer will bear the expenses of repatriation of mortal remains.
● Illness Expenses
Often, travellers get sick while travelling overseas due to changes in surroundings, so purchasing international travel insurance is beneficial. If you get hospitalised due to such illness, under this coverage, the insurer will provide coverage for such expenses according to the policy limit.
● Permanent Disability Covers
An insured person might face permanent disabilities if an accident occurred during the trip duration. In such situations, the insured person will get compensation according to the policy terms. Both permanent total and partial disabilities will be considered under this coverage.
● Evacuation Coverage
Whether you face any catastrophic event or any other health issues, you will get evacuation coverage under this cover. Transportation costs from the overseas country to your homeland will be paid by the insurer. Whether you fly by air or land, the expense will be covered by your insurance company.
● Compassionate Visits
Everyone needs a family member by their side in a medical emergency. Not every travel insurance company offers this coverage in international travel insurance, so you must look into the policy terms carefully. Under this coverage, your insurer will bear the expense of two-way tickets for one family member to visit you during the hospitalisation period.
What are the Non-Medical Benefits of International Travel Insurance?
Along with medical benefits, you will get the following non-medical coverage with comprehensive international travel insurance. Remember that every policy plan comes with varied inclusions, so you must check it before getting one.
● Trip delays
● Trip cancellation
● Loss or delay of checked-in baggage
● Passport loss
● Return of minor child
● Automatic trip extension
● Missed flight connection
● Hijack distress allowance, etc.
What are the Exclusions of International Travel Insurance?
Most people only look only at inclusions, but knowing the exclusions of a policy is equally crucial. Thus, go through the below-listed general exclusions of international travel insurance.
Medical Exclusions
● Pre-existing disease and related issues
● If a close relative prepares the disability report to support a claim
● Pregnancy-related problems
Travel Exclusions
● Travelling without a valid visa
● Travelling despite getting a terminal medical prognosis
● Extending your stay longer than your visa allows
● Travelling against the advice of your doctor
● Travelling to obtain only medical treatment
Legal Exclusions
● Suicide, attempted suicide, or any self-inflicted injuries
● Events that happen directly or indirectly because of drug, alcohol, or other intoxicant
● If an insured person breaks the law or is involved in illegal activities like crimes or riots during their trip
● If one participates in hazardous activity
Note: The above-stated inclusions might vary from one insurance provider to another.
The Bottom Line
Travel Medical Insurance is essential for every individual, no matter where they travel. When buying a plan, you must consider a few things, like the claim process, coverage, and sum insured. Now that you know about the importance of travel insurance make sure you get a hand on one so that you are financially covered during health or other travel emergencies and can enjoy your trip peacefully.