Are you planning on traveling outside of the country? Have you crossed the 65 years of age mark? If you answered ‘yes’ to both questions, you may want to consider supplementing your Original Medicare coverage. In most cases, your Original Medicare coverage will not follow you across borders.

Medicare covers your healthcare needs in all American territories. However, if you are travelling outside the United States, it may be wise to enroll in a supplemental insurance plan. This supplemental insurance provider in Chesterton, Indiana is going to explain more below.

Medigap Coverage While You Are Abroad

Medigap, or Medicare Supplement, includes a foreign travel benefit. However, it’s important to speak to your supplemental insurance provider in Chesterton, Indiana to find out what your specific policy covers.

Generally, Medicare supplement plans C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, M, and N pay for at least 80% of your necessary medical costs outside the country. The emergency must occur within 60 days of your travel, and not indefinitely. You will also be responsible for a standard deductible. Furthermore, plans E, H, I, and J aren’t available to new enrollees — but those with policies bought before June 1st, 2010, can keep them.

In addition, it’s important to remember that Medigap isn’t a meant to be a replacement for Medicare. It acts as an additional benefit to your existing coverage under Part A and Part B.

Another important thing to remember is that your prescription (Part D) benefits apply within the United States and its territories. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to make a medical decision while traveling abroad, it’s important that you thoroughly understand your benefits and how they work.

International Coverage by Medicare Advantage

Many policyholders confuse Medigap with Medicare Advantage. However, both of these options differ in their benefits. Also, Medicare Advantage is a government-approved alternative to Medicare. If your plan does cover foreign travel, you’ll want to make sure it covers preexisting conditions and other emergencies.

Part C plans might not follow you in all countries, as it works only in limited locations. Additionally, if you are planning on living outside of the Advantage plan’s service area for more than six months, you will be automatically unenrolled from it. In any case, it’s best to speak to your Medicare supplemental insurance provider in Chesterton, Indiana before travelling internationally.

How to Fill the Gaps

If you are traveling outside the country for an extended amount of time, you may want to consider purchasing additional insurance. Additional coverage can protect you from financial crises if you are faced with a medical emergency while abroad. It can help you fill any gaps that your supplemental policy cannot cover. If you are looking to purchase additional coverage, you may want to consider the following options:

Primary Insurance

This type of coverage helps pay up to your policy limit, which means you can use it for any amount that doesn’t exceed your Medigap limit. You can purchase primary travel medical insurance from your Supplemental insurance provider in Chesterton, Indiana when you enroll in your Medigap policy.

Secondary Insurance

This type of insurance covers your medical bills abroad after Medigap (or other foreign travel coverage) pays its share. Like primary insurance, you can obtain secondary insurance with your Medicare supplement plan from any reliable service provider.

Looking for a Supplemental Insurance Provider in Chesterton, Indiana?

If you are traveling abroad and are over the age of 65, it’s important to reconsider your insurance coverage options. Are you ready to consult with an expert? If so, and if you would like to meet with a knowledgeable supplemental insurance provider in Chesterton, Indiana, our agents at Senior Care Insurance Services (SCIS) will be happy to assist you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.