TRAVELERS' HEALTH INFORMATION

Health Benefits while Traveling Abroad

While traveling outside the United States, faculty, staff and their dependents may occasionally suffer an illness or accident. Language and cultural differences can add to the stress of the moment, so it is important to review your benefits before traveling abroad. Also, be sure to discuss your trip with your doctor well in advance of the travel to make any necessary arrangements such as inoculations or maintenance drug prescriptions.

In addition, the Center for International Development Programs recommends that you get up-to-date information about health concerns in the regions you intend to visit or pass through. The Center for Disease Control maintains a database of regional health issues. Check their web site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/ for the latest information.

Many insurance companies offer travel insurance at competitive rates and usually include emergency medical and evacuation coverage in addition to coverage for lost luggage, delayed or cancelled flights and other common travel problems. Hazardous activity coverage is also available from these companies. Depending on the nature of your trip, it might be a good idea to get this type of coverage.

While seeking medical care abroad, keep in mind that some treatments may not be recognized forms of medical treatment in the United States or may not be covered by your health care plans. If you are enrolled in an HMO, only emergency coverage is available outside the service area.

If medical care is required while traveling overseas, be sure to keep all receipts, billing statements and other documentation related to the services received, since these will be required for filing any claims. They must either be submitted in English or be accompanied with a translation. Claims must include details of the services received.

Remember that charges incurred will be converted into American Currency at the exchange rate in effect at the time the claim is processed.  This rate might be different from that prevalent when you received the services.