Critical financial and legal information every senior traveler must know before going abroad. Protect yourself and your assets.
The short answer: Generally NO. Here's what every US senior needs to know about Medicare and overseas coverage.
✗ Original Medicare (Part A & B)
Generally does NOT cover care outside the US, except in rare circumstances:
✗ Medicare Advantage Plans
Most do NOT cover international care. Check your specific plan details.
✗ Medigap (Supplement) Plans
Plans C, D, F, G, M, N offer limited foreign travel coverage (see below)
Some Medigap plans offer limited international coverage:
✓ 80% Coverage After $250 Deductible
After you pay $250 deductible, pays 80% of medically necessary emergency care abroad
✓ $50,000 Lifetime Maximum
Maximum lifetime benefit is $50,000
✓ First 60 Days of Trip
Coverage applies only for first 60 days of any trip abroad
✗ NOT Comprehensive
Does NOT replace travel insurance - evacuation not covered
You MUST have travel insurance if:
Travel insurance is NOT optional:
Avoid expensive fees and access your money safely while traveling abroad with these banking strategies.
Foreign Transaction Fees
Typically 1-3% on every purchase
ATM Withdrawal Fees
$2-5 per withdrawal + home bank fee
Currency Conversion
Dynamic conversion can add 3-7%
Medical evacuation can cost $100,000 or more. Without proper coverage, you could face financial devastation.
🏥 Within a Country
$10,000 - $50,000
Ambulance, local hospital transfer
🌍 To Home Country
$50,000 - $150,000
Commercial medical escort or air ambulance
✈️ From Remote Areas
$100,000 - $250,000+
Private air ambulance, helicopter, specialist team
Emergency Medical Treatment
Hospitalization, surgery, doctor visits abroad
Medical Evacuation
Transport to nearest adequate facility or home
Repatriation of Remains
Cost to return home if tragedy occurs
Emergency Assistance
24/7 hotline, coordination, translations
Consider adding these services for additional protection:
Global Rescue
Membership-based evacuation
Medjet
Medical evacuation membership
SkyMed
Cruise & RV membership
Prepare these documents before international travel to protect yourself and ensure your wishes are honored.
Don't travel without proper coverage. Get the right insurance to protect yourself financially.