What should I look for in a Medicare plan if I travel frequently both domestically and internationally?
Answered by 8 licensed agents
This can be very complicated. Out of network coverage is unique to each plan and carrier. Some plans say "go anywhere in our national network" and other plans can say "go anywhere Medicare works." It's best to ask us (or your broker) which plans have the best out-of-area coverage. In terms of international, most will cover for international emergency, but there can be limits. I always recommend my customers to get international travel coverage, which I help them with. It's very inexpensive and gives peace of mind should you have a problem while traveling abroad.
Answered by Jim Neil on April 7, 2025
Agent Licensed in MI, AL, AR & 31 other states
If you travel within the US - reviewing plan choices that offer a Nationwide network is key.
If you travel internationally - Travel insurance is available based on your dates of travel.
Review with a local Medicare Broker, contact me for specific questions.
A plan that has foreign travel benefits which are usually found in Medicare Supplements plans. Medicare supplements also give you the freedom and flexibility to see any doctor or hospital in the US that accept Medicare. One final suggestion; I would highly recommend purchasing foreign travel health insurance if you’re going to be out of the country. It’s really inexpensive because it’s not a permanent policy. Ask your travel agent about available options.
Answered by Timothy Brown on April 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in PA, CT, DE & 15 other states
Some Medicare Advantage plans include travel benefits for when you need care away from home. These travel benefits usually cover more than just emergency and urgent care and help ensure you have coverage no matter where you are. However, not all plans have the same rules and limitations – it’s important to ask questions when shopping for the right Medicare Advantage plan.
Important questions to ask include:
What emergency or routine health care services are covered if I vacation in the U.S. or out of the country?
Do I have to seek services with specific providers?
How long can I be away from home and receive coverage?
Will this plan cover both domestic and international travel?
Answered by Maurice Ellis on April 21, 2025
Agent Licensed in MS, AL, AR & 17 other states
If someone travels extensively throughout the year, it usually makes the most sense for them to be in a MediGap plan, or sometimes called a Medicare Supplement plan. With a MediGap plan, the person can see any doctor in the United States, as long as they accept Medicare patients. With International travel I ALWAYS recommend a "travel medical" policy.
Answered by Steve Brauer on April 8, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ & CA
You should seek out a plan that hits the "sweet spot" between monthly premium and potential "out of pocket liability."
Answered by Andy Kelly on April 8, 2025
Agent Licensed in WA & OR
Ask for a plan that covers all of the US, very limited coverage is available when you go out of the country, I always advise to purchase travel insurance for cruises, out of the country vacations too.
Answered by Debra Hartman on April 22, 2025
Agent Licensed in WI & MN
Look for a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan that offers nationwide provider access and includes emergency coverage abroad. Also, ensure the plan has strong out-of-network benefits and minimal restrictions on seeing specialists without referrals.
Answered by Raquel Weir on April 22, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX & LA
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