There are some important issues regarding Canadian travel health insurance. This article will focus only on USA citizens traveling to Canada. Before discussing health insurance, it is important to point out that you should inform the US State Department about your travel plans.
In this way, you can be traced should any emergency arise at home in your absence. Also, the Department can alert you if an unexpected crisis arises in Canada during your travels. All information provided will be treated as confidential, as legislated in the Privacy Act.
A vital component of your travel preparations is to consult your medical insurance company regarding your policy’s status in Canada. Ascertain if you will have cover for possible emergency medical expenses. There are not many medical insurance policies that provide cover for medical expenses outside the United States unless additional cover has been bought.
If your health policy does not provide cover during your visit to Canada, speak to your travel agent. You can purchase temporary health cover from an accredited travel agent. The cost can be added into your package deal. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you will be covered for all medical expenses. Also included is cover for emergency services and a medical evacuation.
Should you require medical treatment in Canada, it is likely that the hospital and doctor will require payment immediately. Regarding a medical evacuation, although unlikely, this could cost as much as $50,000. Make sure you discuss this with your health carrier.
Ask your travel insurance Ontario carrier the following additional questions. Will payment go directly to the relevant health care provider in Canada? If not, when will you personally be reimbursed? What about cover in the event of psychiatric treatment being necessary? What cover is applicable regarding my remains should I die?
If you use prescription medications, these should be brought into Canada in their original packaging with labels. You should also carry a copy of the prescription and your physician’s contact details. If you are a diabetic and use syringes, these must be declared on your arrival in Canada. In addition, you must have a letter from a physician stating that the syringes are used for health reasons.
HIV positive travelers must abide by the same rules regarding medications. Antiretroviral drugs should also be kept in their original containers. It is recommended that you get an extra script from your doctor in case you lose your drugs or they are stolen. On this subject, it is not obligatory for USA citizens to have an AIDS test to enter Canada.
When you have sorted out all Canadian travel health insurance issues, make a list of all other health related items that you should take with you. For instance, if you wear glasses, pack a spare pair. Wear a medical alert bracelet if you have a unique problem, or if you are allergic to any medications or food. Ask your doctor for a letter that explains your condition and the suggested treatment if you become ill.
Dan Pucher Insurance is an independent Broker offering personal and corporate solutions. When looking for Visitors to Canada insurance and Travel Insurance Ontario.
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