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Planning a trip outside the U.S.? If you have a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, understanding your coverage while abroad is essential for a worry-free vacation.

International Travel with Medicare Advantage: The Basics

Medicare Advantage plans typically don’t offer coverage for medical services outside the U.S. This means that if you get sick or injured while traveling internationally, you’ll likely have to pay for your care out of pocket.

However, there are a few exceptions and things to keep in mind:

• Emergency Coverage: Most Medicare Advantage plans will cover emergency and urgent care within the U.S., even if you’re traveling out of your plan’s service area. This means you’ll have protection in case of a sudden illness or injury.
• Travel Benefits: Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer a travel benefit that provides limited coverage for out-of-network care, including international travel. This coverage can vary significantly between plans, so it’s important to check your plan’s specific details.
• Cruises: Medicare Advantage coverage usually doesn’t extend to medical care on cruise ships once you’re more than six hours away from a U.S. port.

Why Travel Medical Insurance is Crucial for Medicare Advantage Beneficiaries:

Traveling without adequate coverage can be risky and expensive. Medical costs abroad can quickly add up, and travel medical insurance can offer much-needed protection.

Benefits of Travel Medical Insurance:

• Emergency Medical Expenses: Covers the cost of emergency medical care, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and ambulance services.
• Medical Evacuation: Pays for transportation back to the U.S. if medically necessary.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Reimburses for non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or cut your trip short due to a covered medical reason.

Before You Go:

• Check Your Plan’s Coverage: Contact your Medicare Advantage plan provider to understand your specific coverage for international travel.
• Consider Travel Medical Insurance: If your plan offers limited or no coverage, consider purchasing travel medical insurance for comprehensive protection.
• Discuss with Your Doctor: Talk to your doctor about any pre-existing conditions or health concerns that might require special consideration or additional coverage.

Remember, being prepared is key to enjoying your travels without worry. By understanding your Medicare Advantage plan’s coverage and considering travel medical insurance, you can protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses and focus on making the most of your international adventures.

Get the Coverage You Need for Less Than You Might Expect

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.

Here’s 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.

Disclosure: GeoBlue is the trade name of Worldwide Insurance Services, LLC (Worldwide Services Insurance Agency, LLC in California and New York), an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. GeoBlue is the administrator of coverage provided under insurance policies issued by 4 Ever Life International Limited, Bermuda, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

South Dakota residents: GeoBlue is the trade name of Worldwide Insurance Services, LLC (Worldwide Services Insurance Agency, LLC in California and New York), an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association and is made available in cooperation with Blue Cross and Blue companies in select service areas. Coverage is provided under insurance policies underwritten by 4 Ever Life Insurance Company, Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois NAIC #80985 under policy form series