Travelling to a new country is exciting, but it can also come with unexpected situations. You might fall ill or have an accident abroad, and hospital bills in some countries can be very high. This is where travel insurance with medical cover becomes very useful. It helps protect you from unexpected expenses in case of a medical emergency while travelling.
What is medical cover in travel insurance?
Medical cover in travel insurance is a part of your policy that pays for healthcare if you get sick or injured while you are on your trip. If you need to see a doctor, go to the hospital or even get emergency surgery, this cover can help you manage the costs.
Without it, you may have to pay for treatment from your own pocket, which can be very expensive, especially in countries like the USA or Europe.
Medical cover also includes help in case you need to be brought back to India for treatment. This is known as medical evacuation and can cost lakhs of rupees without insurance.
Types of medical expenses covered in travel insurance
Most travel insurance plans with medical cover will help you with:
- Medical emergencies: Emergencies for you or your loved ones due to an accident that requires immediate treatment.
- Evacuation/transportation to the nearest health facility: Air lifts or ambulance evacuations to the nearest medical facility where care can be provided.
- Short-term medical treatment: A sudden illness like food poisoning, or infections that require hospitalisation for a short period of time.
- Accidental death: Transportation of the body back home or to the nearest funeral home. Life insurance benefits for family members.
- Disability coverage: Coverage for any temporary or permanent disability caused during travel that can impact the patient's quality of life.
Benefits of having medical cover in travel insurance
Here are some important reasons why medical cover is a must in your single trip travel insurance:
- Money-saving: Medical care abroad can cost thousands. Insurance helps avoid huge bills.
- Emergency help: Some insurance providers offer 24/7 support and can guide you in finding a hospital or arranging treatment.
- Covers serious issues: A medical cover can help in cases like accidents, infections and food poisoning.
- Support for family: If you are hospitalised for many days, your insurance might pay for a family member to visit and support you.
How does medical cover in travel insurance work abroad?
First, call the emergency number provided in your insurance policy. They will tell you what to do and may guide you to a nearby hospital.
In some cases, the insurance company has tie-ups with hospitals, and they will pay directly. However, if you pay first, keep all bills and prescriptions. You can later send them to the insurance company and get reimbursement (as per the policy terms).
If the situation is serious, your insurance may cover medical evacuation. This includes arranging and paying for transport either back to India or to a better-equipped hospital nearby.
Make sure you carry a copy of your travel insurance and know the contact details of your insurance company while travelling.
Conclusion
Medical cover in travel insurance is very important for every international traveller. It protects you from unexpected health problems and expensive medical bills while you are far from home.
Buying travel insurance online is now quick and convenient, but it’s still important to read the policy terms carefully and make sure the plan matches your needs. If you need help choosing the right travel insurance with medical cover, fill out the form on this page to get expert advice.
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.