Which Medigap Plans Cover Foreign Travel: A Comprehensive Guide

I. Introduction

Traveling abroad can be a wonderful experience, but it can also come with unexpected expenses – especially when it comes to medical care. That’s why it’s important to have comprehensive medical coverage while traveling outside the country. In this article, we’ll explore which Medigap plans offer coverage for foreign travel, and what you should consider when selecting a plan that suits your needs.

II. The Basics of Medigap Plans

Medigap plans, also known as Medicare Supplement plans, are offered by private insurance companies and designed to fill gaps in coverage left by Original Medicare. There are ten standardized Medigap plans lettered A through N, each with a different amount of coverage, so it’s important to select a plan that provides the benefits you need.

III. Medigap Plans That Offer Coverage for International Travel

Not all Medigap plans offer coverage for foreign travel, but those that do typically cover up to 80% of the cost of emergency medical care outside the United States, with a lifetime limit of $50,000. The following Medigap plans offer foreign travel benefits:

• Medigap Plan C
• Medigap Plan D
• Medigap Plan F
• Medigap Plan G
• Medigap Plan M
• Medigap Plan N

It’s important to note that Medigap Plan F is no longer available for purchase by those newly eligible for Medicare (as of January 1, 2020), but those who were eligible for Medicare before that date can still purchase Medigap Plan F.

IV. What to Consider When Choosing a Medigap Plan That Covers Foreign Travel

When selecting a Medigap plan that offers foreign travel benefits, you’ll want to consider the following factors:

• The cost of the plan
• The amount of coverage it provides
• Any deductibles or copayments
• Whether the plan provides coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Whether the plan has a waiting period for coverage to kick in

It’s also important to examine any coverage limits or exclusions that the plan may have, such as excluded countries or activities.

V. How to Get the Most Out of Your Medigap Plan While Traveling Abroad

To make the most of your Medigap plan’s foreign travel benefits, consider the following tips:

• Research the countries you’ll be traveling to and make sure they’re covered by your plan
• Contact your Medigap insurance provider to confirm your coverage and obtain any necessary referrals or authorizations before seeking medical care abroad
• Carry your Medigap insurance card and any necessary travel documents such as your passport and visa
• Consider purchasing travel medical insurance for additional coverage and peace of mind
• Make sure you understand the process for filing claims and getting reimbursed for medical expenses

If you need medical care while abroad, seek care from a qualified medical provider and contact your Medigap insurance provider as soon as possible to start the claims process.

VI. Conclusion

Having comprehensive medical coverage while traveling abroad is essential for your health and your financial wellbeing. With the right Medigap plan that offers coverage for foreign travel, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind knowing that you’re protected in case of an emergency. Remember to review your current Medigap plan and consider upgrading to one that offers foreign travel benefits if you plan on traveling outside the United States.