A Buyer's
Guide to
Medical
Insurance
by: Johnny
Mangiante
Buying travel
health insurance can be a complex task.
There are so many different plans - each with different
benefits and restrictions.
It is important to
shop wisely for trip insurance. Many
people buy coverage that seems inexpensive only to find
out that they are not adequately covered when a medical
emergency occurs. Below are a few key questions you
should ask your insurance provider before purchasing trip
insurance:
- What is not
covered by the policy? Insurance companies call
these "exclusions," and every policy
has them.
- Are there
specific exclusions relating to sports or other
activities?
- Does the plan
have a deductible that you must pay each time you
file a claim?
- Does the plan
deny benefits if your medical emergency arises
because of a "pre-existing condition or
health problem?
Knowing the
answers to these questions can help you avoid unpleasant
surprises when you make a claim. Make sure you understand
exactly what your trip insurance plan covers. When in
doubt, call your insurer. A reputable insurance company
can give you straight answers to your questions. Most
offer toll free numbers so you can call them directly
from wherever you are.
If you find that a
plan has too many restrictions and complications, or that
your questions are not being answered satisfactorily, do
not hesitate to look somewhere else.
A comprehensive
travel health insurance plan usually covers the following
emergency medical expenses:
- Hospital
accommodations
- Medical bills
such as those for a physician, surgeon, and
anesthetist
- Ambulances
- Diagnostic
services such as laboratory tests and x-rays
- Private
registered nurses
- Medical aids
such as slings or splints, and the temporary
rental of wheelchairs or walkers
- Prescription
drugs
- Cost of
returning a deceased back home
Remember that when
it comes to insurance, you get what you pay for. When
shopping around for trip insurance, it is
important to keep in mind that not all insurance policies
are alike. Be aware of minor price variations between
insurance companies (the cheapest may not be the best
company to deal with when you have a claim.)
_____________________
About The Author
Johnny Mangiante is an online
journalist. He is also the editor and webmaster for many
websites. For more information on Travel Medical
Insurance for Visitors to Canada see his website http://www.visitorstocanada.com
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