Travel Insurance vs. Medicare Abroad: What You Actually Need

You've booked the trip, packed the bags, and told the neighbors to water the plants. But here's a question most travelers over 65 forget to ask: What happens if I get sick or injured overseas? The answer might surprise you -- because Medicare probably won't be there to help. Let's break down what's actually covered, what's not, and what you need to do before you board that plane.

What Medicare Covers (and Doesn't) Abroad

• Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally does not cover healthcare outside the United States
• There are rare exceptions: emergencies on cruise ships within 6 hours of a U.S. port, or situations where a foreign hospital is closer than the nearest U.S. hospital
• Medicare Advantage plans typically do not cover international care, with very limited exceptions
• Prescription drug coverage (Part D) does not apply outside the U.S.
• Bottom line: if you're leaving the country, assume Medicare won't follow you

Medigap Foreign Travel Emergency Coverage

• Several Medigap plans (C, D, F, G, M, and N) include a foreign travel emergency benefit
• This benefit covers 80% of emergency care costs abroad after a $250 deductible
• Lifetime maximum is $50,000 -- which may not be enough for a serious hospitalization
• Coverage only applies to emergencies during the first 60 days of a trip
• Medigap foreign travel coverage is helpful but limited -- it's not a substitute for travel insurance

When You Need Standalone Travel Insurance

• Any trip outside the U.S. where you want medical coverage beyond emergencies
• Trips longer than 60 days (beyond Medigap's coverage window)
• Adventure travel, cruises, or remote destinations with limited medical infrastructure
• When you want coverage for trip cancellation, delays, or lost luggage
• If you have pre-existing conditions that need coverage abroad

What to Look For in a Travel Insurance Policy

• Emergency medical coverage of at least $100,000 (preferably $250,000+)
• Pre-existing condition coverage (often requires purchase within 14-21 days of booking)
• 24/7 assistance hotline with multilingual support
• Direct payment to hospitals (so you don't pay out of pocket first)
• Clear policy on age limits and any exclusions for seniors over 70 or 80

Medical Evacuation Coverage

• Medical evacuation can cost $50,000 to $250,000+ depending on location
• Neither Medicare nor most Medigap plans cover evacuation
• Look for travel insurance that includes at least $100,000 in evacuation coverage
• Evacuation coverage can transport you to the nearest adequate facility -- or back to the U.S.
• This is especially important for remote destinations or developing countries

Recommended Tips Before You Travel

• Buy travel insurance as soon as you book your trip (pre-existing condition windows are tight)
• Carry printed copies of all insurance cards, policy numbers, and emergency contacts
• Bring a detailed list of medications, dosages, and your doctor's contact info
• Research hospitals and clinics at your destination before you leave
• Save the U.S. embassy or consulate phone number for your destination country

Need Help?

Not sure if your Medicare or Medigap plan covers you abroad? At Insuras Health Benefits, we help you understand exactly what your current coverage includes -- and fill the gaps before you go.

Contact us for a free consultation -- let's make sure your next adventure is covered from takeoff to landing.