I'm planning a long trip overseas. What happens if I need medical care while I'm away from the US?

Question

Steve Houchens · Accepted Answer

No, in most cases, Medicare does not cover medical care received outside the United States However there are some exceptions and some Medicare Supplements may cover some emergency coverage for travel abroad. It’s important to know what your plan offers.

Answered by Steve Houchens on April 10, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent

Marie Terhune · Answer

Medicare does not cover you out of the country except for limited coverage near the U.S. border.  It is a good idea to get Travel Medical Insurance.

Timothy Brown · Answer

My recommendation is to purchase international insurance since US plans are limited when you’re out of the country.

Dana Dane · Answer

Contact your agent. Otherwise, I would get the best travel insurance you can find. Get the highest coverage available which includes medical benefits as well as emergency transportation back home to the US and other benefits. You can find this coverage online. Look at online reviews.

Answered by Dana Dane on April 23, 2025

Agent Licensed in OR, AZ, CA & 6 other states

Answered by Dana Dane Medicare Insurance Agent

Vachik Chakhbazian · Answer

If you need medical care while traveling abroad, it's crucial to know that the U.S. government does not provide insurance coverage or pay for medical bills overseas. You are responsible for all costs. Before your trip, it's essential to purchase travel insurance and to know how to access healthcare abroad.

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on April 10, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian Medicare Insurance Agent

Robert Baez · Answer

your insurance plan may cover emergency cases while out of the US. You should check with your insurance carrier or review your summary of benefits.

Robert Barco · Answer

Original Medicare does not cover your medical needs outside the United States. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, the plan may offer emergency care outside the United States. Each plan is different when it comes to this coverage. If you have a Medicare Supplement or Medigap plan, it will have international coverage for emergencies. You will pay the first $250 provided the emergency happens during the first 60 days outside the USA. I recommend purchasing separate travel medical insurance to cover the exact time away.

Answered by Robert Barco on May 2, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Robert Barco Medicare Insurance Agent

Diana Pedersen · Answer

You will want to find out what your care options are with your plan. You might have virtual visits or you can get travel insurance. 
Many insurance providers include access to a 24-hour hotline that you can call for medical advice.
If you need to see a doctor while you’re traveling, you might be able to set up a virtual appointment with your primary care doctor.
Medicare doesn't cover outside of the US but there are a few plans that can cover this cost. You will want to talk to your Broker about those options.

Joley Hanson · Answer

Talk with a licensed agent to go over specifics when planning travel. Your agent can answer if your plan has any travel benefits. Some agents even sell plans for travel.

I'm planning a long trip overseas. What happens if I need medical care while I'm away from the US?

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I'm planning a long trip overseas. What happens if I need medical care while I'm away from the US?

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