A medical emergency in a foreign country is stressful enough without wondering who will pay. Many people assume their regular health plan follows them overseas, and often it does not. Travel medical insurance fills that gap for the length of your trip. DGS Benefits has helped New Jersey travelers and families for 35 years, and we will explain your options in plain English.
What is travel medical insurance?
Travel medical insurance is short-term coverage for unexpected illness or injury while you are away from home. Depending on the plan, it can help pay for emergency doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and, importantly, emergency medical evacuation or transport home.
Why your regular coverage may not be enough
- Medicare. Original Medicare generally does not cover health care outside the United States, with very limited exceptions.
- Your health plan. Many plans limit or exclude care abroad. Check with your insurer before you go.
- Evacuation. Emergency medical transportation can be extremely expensive, and many health plans do not cover it.
If you are on Medicare, see our page on Medicare Supplement plans to understand what your coverage does and does not include.
Travel medical vs. trip insurance
They are not the same thing. Travel medical insurance pays for medical care. Trip insurance reimburses non-refundable trip costs, such as cancellations, delays, or lost baggage. Some plans combine the two. We will help you figure out which you need, or both.
What to look for in a plan
- The coverage limit and the deductible
- Whether emergency evacuation is included
- How the plan treats pre-existing conditions
- Any activity exclusions, such as certain sports
- Whether the dates and destinations match your trip
Who should consider it?
- Anyone traveling outside the United States
- Cruise passengers
- People taking longer trips or extended stays
- Older travelers and people with health conditions
- Families traveling with children
What does it cost?
Your price depends on your age, the length of your trip, your destination, the coverage limit, and the deductible. We compare plans so you can see the real differences instead of buying the first one you find.
When should you buy?
Before you leave. Some benefits, such as coverage for certain existing conditions, may require you to buy soon after you book your trip. Ask us about the timing for the plan you are considering.
How we help
We ask about your trip, your health, and your budget, then compare options from various carriers and explain what is covered and what is not. For everyday coverage at home, see health and medical insurance in NJ.
Frequently asked questions
Does my health insurance cover me abroad?
Often only in limited ways, if at all. Check with your insurer and ask us to help you understand the gaps.
Does Medicare cover me overseas?
Generally no, with very limited exceptions.
Can I buy coverage after I have left?
Sometimes, but options are more limited. It is best to buy before you go.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
It depends on the plan. Some exclude them and some offer limited coverage. We will point this out before you buy.
Is a consultation really free?
Your first consultation is free. Contact us to get started.
DGS Benefits Inc. is a licensed insurance broker in the State of New Jersey. We do not offer every plan available in your area.
Travel medical plans have exclusions, limitations, and eligibility requirements. Benefits, premiums, and availability vary by plan, traveler, and destination. This is not trip cancellation insurance unless the plan states otherwise.