What You Need To Know About Your Medigap Coverage

Are you one of the millions of seniors planning an international adventure? If you have a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plan, you might already have some coverage for medical emergencies abroad. But a common question is: “Will Medicare Supplement plans cover international travel?” Before you board that plane, let’s explore what your Medigap plan truly covers and whether you need additional protection.

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Understanding Medigap Coverage for International Travel

Medicare Supplement plans, commonly known as Medigap, are designed to fill the gaps in Original Medicare coverage. While they offer substantial benefits domestically, their international travel coverage varies significantly. Here’s what you need to know:

Eligible Plans

Only specific Medigap plans—C, D, F, G, M, and N—provide coverage for emergency medical care outside the U.S. If you have a different plan, you’ll need additional travel insurance. Even with these eligible plans, Medigap only covers 80% of emergency expenses, up to plan limits. This means you’ll still need to pay 20% out-of-pocket.

Limited Duration

Medigap coverage for foreign travel emergencies is typically limited to the first 60 days of your trip. After this period, you will be responsible for 100% of your medical costs. This is a critical consideration for those planning extended stays abroad.

Financial Limits

There’s a lifetime limit of $50,000 for foreign travel emergency coverage under Medigap. This cap can be a significant constraint if you require extensive medical care while traveling.

Deductible

Before your Medigap plan kicks in for foreign travel emergencies, you must meet a $250 annual deductible. This out-of-pocket expense is an important factor to consider when planning your healthcare budget.

Coverage Amount

Medigap plans typically cover 80% of the cost of eligible emergency medical services abroad. This leaves you responsible for the remaining 20%, which can still be substantial, especially in countries with high medical costs.

What Medigap Doesn’t Cover Abroad

Medigap Coverage for International Travel

Understanding what Medigap does not cover is crucial for preparing adequately for international travel. Here are some of the key exclusions:

Non-Emergency Care

Medigap plans generally don’t cover routine check-ups, preventive care, or treatment for pre-existing conditions while traveling abroad. This means any ongoing medical needs must be addressed before departure or covered out-of-pocket.

Certain Emergencies

Not all emergencies are covered. It’s important to read your plan documents carefully to understand the specifics of what is and isn’t included. For example, some plans may not cover injuries sustained from high-risk activities.

Should You Get Additional Travel Insurance?

The U.S. Department of State encourages all travelers to verify their health insurance coverage overseas. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs abroad, highlighting the importance of securing additional coverage.

Even with Medigap’s foreign travel emergency coverage, you might want to consider additional travel medical insurance for several reasons:

Longer Trips

If your trip extends beyond 60 days, additional insurance can provide ongoing coverage. This is essential for long-term travelers or those planning to stay abroad for extended periods.

Comprehensive Protection

Travel medical insurance often covers a wider range of medical services and situations than Medigap, including pre-existing conditions. This broader coverage can provide peace of mind, especially for those with chronic health issues.

Higher Limits

The $50,000 lifetime limit on Medigap coverage can be insufficient for severe medical emergencies. Additional insurance can provide higher coverage limits, reducing the risk of significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Before You Go: Essential Steps

Review Your Medigap Plan

Understand the specific details of your plan’s foreign travel emergency coverage. Knowing the extent of your coverage can help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure you receive the necessary care.

Consider Your Needs

Assess your individual health needs, trip duration, and planned activities to determine if additional insurance is necessary. For example, high-risk activities or known health issues may require more comprehensive coverage.

Research Travel Medical Insurance Options

Compare different plans to find the one that best suits your requirements and budget. Look for policies that offer coverage for a range of medical services, including emergency evacuations and pre-existing conditions.

Affordable Travel Medical Insurance Options

The good news is that travel medical insurance plans can be affordable. GeoBlue® international health insurance plans help you access care—and protect your wallet—when you’re traveling the world.

What GeoBlue Plans Offer:

Up to $1 million in coverage for less than $4 a day
Guaranteed enrollment, with coverage up to age 95
Options include coverage for pre-existing conditions
Medical evacuation and unlimited telemedicine coverage
Coverage for trips up to 6 months
Lock in at current rates—purchase up to 6 months in advance with no cancellation penalty

Interested in learning more? Visit GeoBlue to find the exact right plan for you.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of your Medigap plan’s international coverage is essential before embarking on an overseas adventure. While some Medigap plans offer emergency coverage abroad, the limitations and exclusions can leave gaps that may require additional travel insurance. By thoroughly reviewing your current coverage, assessing your health needs, and exploring supplemental insurance options, you can travel with confidence, knowing you are protected against unexpected medical expenses.

Additional Resources

By equipping yourself with the right information and additional coverage, you can enjoy your international travels with peace of mind. Safe travels!

Will Medicare Supplement Plans Cover International Travel?