Medical emergencies can happen anywhere, and the last thing you want is a big bill just because you left your state or flew to another country. This is exactly where a Medicare Supplement plan (also known as Medigap) can help. Below, this Medicare supplement provider in Chesterton, Indiana is going to explain how Medigap works when you travel, both within the U.S. and abroad.

Traveling within the U.S.? Medigap travels with you.

One of the biggest benefits of pairing Medigap with Original Medicare is how easy it makes traveling anywhere in the country. With Original Medicare, you can see any doctor, specialist, or hospital that accepts Medicare. That is true whether you are down the street or across the country.

There are no networks you need to stay within. You don’t need referrals. And you also don’t have to double-check if your plan works in other states.

This is not the case with Medicare Advantage plans. Those usually ask you to stay within their network of doctors and hospitals for non-emergency care. That can feel limiting, especially if you travel frequently.

With Medigap, it is simple. If a provider accepts Medicare, you are covered.

Traveling abroad? Medigap can help there as well.

Medicare generally does not cover care outside the U.S. However, some Medigap plans do give you some protection for emergencies abroad.

Plans C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, M, and N include foreign travel emergency benefits. If you have one of these, they will cover 80% of emergency medical costs outside the country after you pay a $250 yearly deductible. There is a $50,000 lifetime limit, and the coverage applies during the first 60 days of your trip.

Please note that this is not a comprehensive international health insurance plan. It will not cover regular doctor visits, planned procedures, or prescriptions abroad. But it still serves as a safety net for medical emergencies while you are traveling.

What is not covered? And how do you prepare?

Medigap’s travel coverage has some limits. It only covers emergencies that happen within the first 60 days of your trip.

The services must also be something that Medicare would normally cover. Therefore, regular doctor visits, ongoing treatments, or prescription refills abroad will not be covered unless you have other insurance.

Many hospitals outside the U.S. will also not bill Medicare directly. You will likely need to pay the bills upfront and file a claim to get reimbursed later.

It is a good idea to bring the CMS-1490S claim form with you. That is what you will need to request reimbursement for care outside the U.S. You should also make sure to keep all your receipts and records from any care you receive.

A full-service Medicare supplement provider in Chesterton, Indiana can help you with all this. They will explain what paperwork to bring, how to file claims, and what to expect with reimbursement timelines.

Tips to travel smart with Medigap.

People who travel frequently like Medigap Plan G because of its broad coverage, both at home and abroad. It covers most costs Original Medicare does not, except for the small yearly Part B deductible. It even covers Part B excess charges, which some doctors in certain states may bill.

Plan G also includes that same 80% emergency medical coverage for care overseas, up to the lifetime limit.

But if you are planning a long trip or visiting countries with high medical costs, it is advisable to get a separate travel insurance policy. It can cover more extensive care, medical evacuation, and other emergencies that Medigap does not handle.

A local Medicare supplement provider in Chesterton, Indiana can help you compare plans, explain how travel insurance fits in, and make sure your coverage matches your travel plans.

Looking for a Medicare Supplement Provider in Chesterton, Indiana?

If you are looking for a Medicare supplement provider in Chesterton, Indiana who can help you understand your options, Senior Care Insurance Services is here to guide you through your options. We will answer your questions and help you get the right coverage for your trips. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.