Sometimes, when travelling overseas, unexpected things might occur, such as getting injured or falling ill. If you need to be hospitalised in a foreign nation, it can be stressful, especially if you are not prepared. Understanding what to do during a medical emergency abroad and how travel insurance works can help you stay calm and get the correct support when you need it the most.
What to do in case of a medical emergency abroad?
If you or someone you’re travelling with has a medical emergency, it's crucial to act quickly but calmly. Here are the steps that you should follow:
1. Seek medical help immediately
If it's a serious emergency like a heart disease, an accident or any other life-threatening condition, call the local emergency number immediately. If the condition is not that severe, but it still requires medical attention, you can visit a nearby clinic or hospital. The majority of the tour guides, hostels or hotels can help you contact a hospital or arrange transport.
2. Inform your travel insurance provider
Once the entire situation is under control, contact the travel insurance provider quickly. They usually have a 24-hour helpline. Let them know what happened and where you are getting treated. Some insurance firms also have a local network of hospitals they work with. Try to visit a hospital that is within their network for smoother and quicker services.
3. Stay informed and keep calm
You should keep a record of the treatment. Ask questions to have a good understanding of the treatment plan, how long the hospital stay will be and the cost involved. If language is an issue, ask for a translator. Many hospitals in some of the main cities have English-speaking team members.
Role of travel insurance in hospitalisation abroad
Having multi-trip or single-trip travel insurance can make a massive difference if you fall ill or get hospitalised in a foreign country.
1. Covers medical costs
Your insurance will usually cover the expenses for surgeries, tests, medicines, doctor consultations and even hospitalisation, depending on the policy. This means that you don’t have to pay for everything from your pocket.
2. Cashless treatment
If the hospital is within the network of the insurance firm, you might receive a cashless treatment. This means that the hospital will send all the bills directly to the insurer, and you don’t have to pay upfront.
3. Emergency evacuation
Some travel insurance policies also cover emergency evacuation. For instance, if you want to be moved back to India because of severe health issues, the insurer will cover the cost of air ambulances, medical escorts and other transportation arrangements required for safe relocation
4. Daily allowance
Many policies provide a daily allowance if you are hospitalised for a long time. This payout will help with the cost of food, transport and various other daily needs.
5. Coverage for pre-existing conditions
Some of the insurance plans offer limited coverage for pre-existing conditions, such as heart issues or diabetes, if the medical condition is unexpected.
Documents & information needed at the hospital
Being well-prepared with the correct documents can make things a lot smoother at the hospital. Here’s what you will need:
1. Visa and passport
You need to show your passport and visa at the hospital. It will help confirm your identity and legal stay in the nation.
2. Travel insurance policy
Carry a digital or printed version of your insurance policy. Make sure you also have the emergency contact information of your insurance firm.
3. Insurance letter or card
Many insurance service providers give an insurance card or a letter to carry while travelling. It contains contact information for help and your policy number.
4. Medical records (if any)
If you have an ongoing health issue, you should carry your medical history, recent test reports and even doctor’s prescriptions. It will help the foreign doctors understand your condition correctly.
5. Payment method
If cashless service is not available, you might have to pay first and then claim later. Carry a working international credit or debit card.
Claim process for hospitalisation abroad
Filing a claim correctly is important to get your expenses settled or refunded. There are two primary types of claims:
1. Cashless claim
If you’re treated at a hospital that is in your insurer’s network:
- Step 1: Inform the insurance firm immediately.
- Step 2: The hospital will send the medical bills and details to the insurance firm.
- Step 3: Once it gets approved, the insurance firm will pay the medical bill directly to the clinic/hospital.
2. Reimbursement claim
If you have to pay the bills all by yourself:
- Step 1: Collect all the discharge summaries, reports and bills.
- Step 2: Fill out the claim form (You will find this in the insurer’s app or website).
- Step 3: Submit the documents online or by post within the given time limit (usually it’s 30 days).
- Step 4: The insurance firm will review and then transfer the approved amount to your bank account.
What to check while buying a travel insurance policy?
You should check the following aspects while purchasing travel insurance online, as not all policies are the same:
1. The coverage limit
Check the total amount covered under the medical expenses. For nations with expensive healthcare, go for a higher sum insured.
2. Cashless hospitals abroad
Look for insurers who have tie-ups with hospitals in the nation you’re visiting. This will help you avoid the stress of paying a massive amount on the spot.
3. Pre-existing illnesses
If you have any pre-existing condition, make sure the policy either provides partial or complete coverage. Some policies exclude pre-existing illnesses entirely.
4. Claim process
Pick a provider that provides a fast and easy claim process. This includes online claim submission, mobile app, 24/7 helpline and much more.
5. Trip type and duration
If you’re travelling for a short holiday, extended stay or a student programme, pick a plan suitable for the trip length.
Conclusion
Getting hospitalised in a foreign nation can be scary, but being prepared can save you from financial loss and major stress. A single trip travel insurance will be your ultimate protection against all unexpected costs abroad.
If you’re not sure which travel insurance you should opt for or need some help in picking the right one, we’re here to assist you. Just fill out the form on this page to get personalised advice based on your health needs and travel plans.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.