Does Medicare or Medicaid Cover Me Outside the USA? - WheelchairTravel.org (2024)

FAQs

Does Medicare or Medicaid Cover Me Outside the USA? - WheelchairTravel.org? ›

U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas. Private U.S. insurance policies also might not cover any or all expenses. Check with your insurance before traveling to see if it provides coverage overseas.

In most situations, Medicare won't pay for health care or supplies you get outside the U.S. The term “outside the U.S.” means anywhere other than the 50 states of the U.S., the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands.

Medicaid provides no option for coverage outside of the United States. If you are covered by Medicaid, you should be aware that coverage can be suspended if you remain outside of the country for more than 30 days. You would have to jump through hoops in order to regain this coverage.

The 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa are considered part of the U.S. Anywhere else is considered outside the U.S. Medicare drug plans don't cover prescription drugs you buy outside the U.S.

Generally, most domestic health insurance policies are not accepted abroad, so there is a benefit to purchasing travel medical insurance as a supplement to your health insurance coverage. The travel medical coverage is only valid while you're traveling.

Medicare Supplement Insurance and International Travel

Most Medicare Supplement Insurance plans (Medigap plans) can include emergency medical coverage in a foreign country. Medigap Plans C, D, G, M, and N, currently being sold, will cover medically necessary care in a foreign country.

The nearest US embassy or consulate can help travelers locate medical services and notify your friends, family, or employer of an emergency. They are available for emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, overseas and in Washington, DC (888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444).

Medicaid does not cover you outside the U.S. and most Medicare plans also do not cover you outside the U.S., although some provide emergency care in Canada and Mexico. To learn more, visit Medicare.gov or check with your Medicare supplement provider.

Costs can vary widely depending on factors such as coverage level, age, destination, and trip length. A full week of coverage may cost less than $4 or more than $100. Generally, the cost of a travel medical insurance policy is lower if: You choose a lower overall maximum coverage limit.

The top five best states in terms of Medicaid quality was completed by California, Massachusetts and Oregon. At the other end of the scale South Dakota received the lowest overall score and was also ranked third-worst for access to coverage, for which neighbouring North Dakota finished bottom.

What is the best travel insurance for seniors? ›

While there are no AARP travel insurance products or discounts available for seniors, members can use the AARP website for trips and tricks on how to plan for international travel and information regarding how to choose the right insurance plan for older travelers.

Medicare does not pay for medical services you receive outside the United States.

Before you go, consider your insurance options in case you need care while traveling. Travel health insurance is especially important if you have an existing health condition, are traveling for more than 6 months, or doing adventure activities such as scuba diving or hang gliding," the agency writes.

How much travel medical insurance do you need? Squaremouth, a travel insurance comparison site, recommends buying at least $50,000 in emergency medical coverage for international travel. For travelers going on a cruise or to a remote destination, the site recommends at least $100,000 in coverage.

Your insurer may ask to be told when you're going abroad and only provide third party cover when you do. An International Driving Permit when necessary. A Green Card from your insurer when necessary (from 2 August 2021, you no longer need a Green Card when driving in the European Economic Area).

Unfortunately, accidents happen. And sometimes people get sick on vacation. Keep your Medicare card with you so it's handy and secure in case you need it. Also, leave a copy of your health care insurance with a loved one so they can send it to you if you lose yours.

Original Medicare

Carry your Medicare card with you when you're away from home. Show your Medicare card to your doctor, hospital, or other health care provider when you get services. If you have a Medicare drug plan or supplemental coverage, carry that plan card with you too.

But even if travel insurance is not required, the U.S. Department of State highly recommends purchasing a policy to cover unexpected medical expenses while you're overseas.