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Many GEHA members wonder whether their health insurance plan covers them when they travel abroad. The answer, like many insurance questions, is: It depends.
What is GEHA?
GEHA (Government Employees Health Association) is a nonprofit health insurance company that provides coverage to federal employees and retirees, as well as their families. GEHA offers a variety of plans, including high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) and preferred provider organization (PPO) plans, as well as dental and vision plans.
Does GEHA Offer Coverage for International Travel?
GEHA plans may offer coverage for emergency medical services required while traveling internationally, but it is important to carefully review the details of your plan before leaving the country.
According to GEHA’s website, some plans offer up to $10,000 in emergency medical care coverage for international travel, while others may offer up to $25,000. However, it is important to note that this coverage is typically only for emergency medical care.
If you plan to travel outside of the United States, it is highly recommended that you purchase additional travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical expenses, as well as trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other travel-related issues.
What Are My Options for GEHA Coverage While Traveling Abroad?
If you are planning to travel outside of the United States and want to ensure that you have adequate medical coverage, there are a few options available:
- Buy Travel Insurance: As mentioned earlier, purchasing travel insurance is a smart way to protect yourself against unforeseen medical expenses and other travel-related issues.
- Choose a GEHA Plan with International Coverage: If you travel often and want to ensure that you have coverage while abroad, consider choosing a GEHA plan that offers international coverage.
- Use the GEHA International Provider Network: GEHA has an international provider network that includes doctors and hospitals in many parts of the world. If you require medical care while traveling, using a provider within this network can help ensure that your care is covered by your GEHA plan.
What Should I Do Before Leaving the Country?
Before leaving the country, it is important to take a few steps to ensure that you are prepared for any medical emergencies that may arise:
- Review Your GEHA Plan: Carefully review the details of your GEHA plan to determine what, if any, coverage is available while traveling internationally. If you are unsure, contact GEHA customer service for more information.
- Purchase Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing additional travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other travel-related issues.
- Research Medical Providers: Research medical providers in the areas you will be traveling to and consider adding their contact information to your emergency travel kit.
- Make Copies of Important Documents: Make copies of your passport, travel insurance policy, and any other important documents you may need while traveling, and keep them in a safe place.
Conclusion
While GEHA plans may offer coverage for emergency medical care required while traveling internationally, it is important to carefully review the details of your plan before leaving the country. If you plan to travel outside of the United States, it is highly recommended that you purchase additional travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical expenses, as well as trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other travel-related issues.
By taking the necessary steps to prepare for your trip, you can help ensure that you are protected against any medical emergencies that may arise while traveling abroad.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does GEHA cover emergency medical care while traveling internationally? | Some GEHA plans may offer coverage for emergency medical care required while traveling internationally. |
| What should I do before leaving the country? | Before leaving the country, it is important to review your GEHA plan, purchase travel insurance, research medical providers, and make copies of important documents. |
| What are my options for GEHA coverage while traveling abroad? | You can choose a GEHA plan with international coverage, use the GEHA international provider network, or purchase travel insurance. |