Check Before You Hit the Road

After over a year of staying safe at home, are you planning to hit the road this travel season? There is a lot to think about—booking the hotel, planning activities, packing your bags, and the list goes on and on. With so much on your mind, it’s easy to miss one crucial thing—making sure you’ll be covered if you need medical attention during your vacation.

Although most of the ACA’s Compliable Health Care Plan may cover emergency or urgent care services during domestic travel, some services may require prior authorization. It is recommended to contact your insurer before seeking care, if possible. It is also a good idea to call before your trip to confirm what’s covered under your plan. If your current health plan does not cover your trip, purchasing travel medical insurance could make a lot of sense.

There is a wide selection of travel protection plans, which includes a variety of coverages. These plans provide health insurance while you are away from home. It often includes limitations on coverage and exclusions for pre-existing conditions. Knowing what you’re covered on can give peace of mind while traveling.

Here are a few steps you can take while traveling:

Traveling within the US

1. Review your Evidence of Coverage before traveling, or contact your insurance company for information on what your benefits cover, and how to use them when traveling. The phone number is usually found on your member ID card.
2. Always carry your current insurance ID Card and medications.
3. Download the carrier’s mobile app, which can be very useful when you have to find a healthcare provider in an unfamiliar city. Or get a list of nearby urgent care or emergency facilities before you hit the road.
4. Contact your insurance company to obtain pre-certification or pre-authorization if necessary. Plan and benefit restriction can vary.
5. Don’t forget to bring your medical supplies and first-aid kit.

When Traveling Abroad

1. Verify your international benefits with your insurance company before leaving the United States, or purchase a stand-alone travel plan.
2. Ask your insurance company if an international phone line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
3. Always carry your current insurance ID Card.
4. Obtain a list of emergency care facilities for your destination.
5. Keep medicine in labeled containers provided by your pharmacist. If you have over-the-counter drugs, using the original containers may limit delays or additional questioning. It is also highly recommended that you place your medicine in your carry-on, in case you need immediate access.
6. Check the Transportation Security Administration website for updates on permitted and prohibited items, including medications that you are allowed to carry onto an airplane. https://www.tsa.gov/
7. Certain items may be banned for other countries. It is a good idea to check the Customs and Import Restrictions of your destination countries.
8. Enroll in the Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to get the latest safety updates and help during an emergency. https://step.state.gov/