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.
This will enable the State Department to get hold of you should there be a family crisis, or other emergency, while you are away. The Department can also contact you if a sudden crisis occurs in the country that you are planning to visit. Any information you provide will be kept confidential in terms of the Privacy Act.
Whilst making your travel plans to Canada, you must contact your health insurance company to establish if your policy will apply in Canada. Also find out if the policy will cover any emergency medical expenses. Very few health insurance plans include cover for health related expenses outside the USA unless extra coverage has been purchased.
If your health insurance excludes cover while you are in Canada, speak to a travel agent about a temporary health plan. These plans are not expensive and are certainly worthwhile. You will receive cover for any health related expenses, including medical evacuations and emergency services. It is very unwise to travel without some form of health insurance.
The majority of Canadian hospitals and doctors will require you to pay for services in advance. Even though a medical evacuation is unlikely, bear in mind that the cost of this is well over $50,000. So check this out with your health insurance company.
Also ascertain with your health insurer if payment will be made to the healthcare provider in Canada, or if you will be paid back at a later date. In addition, ask about cover for psychiatric care, and what type of cover is applicable regarding your remains in the event of your death.
If you are taking prescription medication to Canada, the medication should be stored in its original labeled container. Have a copy of the doctor’s prescription on hand, as well as the doctor’s contact details. Diabetics who are bringing syringes into Canada should be in possession of a doctor’s certificate stating that the syringes are for medical use. You must declare the syringes to the custom officials when you arrive in Canada.
The same medication rules apply to travelers who are HIV positive and are taking antiretroviral drugs. It would be a good idea to ask your doctor for an extra script in case your drugs are stolen or if you lose them. On the subject of HIV, USA citizens are not required to undergo AIDS tests before entering Canada.
Once you have established the requirements of Canadian travel health insurance, consider all other aspects relevant to your health. For example, if you wear spectacles, take a spare pair. If you are allergic to any foods and medicines, or if you have a chronic medical problem, it would be advisable to wear a medical alert bracelet. Also carry a letter from your doctor explaining your condition and what treatment is suggested if you fall ill.
Dan Pucher Insurance is an independent Broker offering personal and corporate solutions. When looking for Visitors to Canada insurance and Travel Insurance Canada.
