What to Look For in International Health Insurance for Travelers

Health insurance may be a requirement for citizens of the United States, but those expensive plans don’t usually do a whole lot of good if you’re abroad and get sick. Having a backup health plan is not only a good idea but can save you a fortune in doctor and hospital bills if you have the unfortunate luck of breaking a bone rock climbing in New Zealand or catch a nasty case of pink eye in New Delhi.

When shopping for an international health insurance plan make sure you find a plan that has the important features you may need.

Hospitalization and doctor fees are a must. If you don’t have proof of insurance you could be forced to pay hefty fees before you can even see a doctor.

Dental care should also be covered under your health plan umbrella. Dental problems can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Being able to see a dentist and get help paying for costly procedures could save you from a lot of pain and suffering.

Cancer treatment is something a good plan should cover because cancer has its own agenda and doesn’t care if it interrupts your travel plans.

Strong customer support is also a must. You will need to comfortably rely on your provider to guide you through unfamiliar territory and ensure filing claims is not more difficult than it needs to be.

Sometimes, no matter how thorough your health plan is, returning to the states is the best option for you to get the care you need. Look for a plan that includes this option to help cover the expense of getting you back home when it’s really necessary.