When you consider that a hospital stay in the U.S. could run up to $10,000 a day, you wonder why anyone would knowingly travel there without appropriate insurance coverage! Apparently, many do.
According to industry statistics, Canadian travel insurance companies paid out more that $600 million in claims in 2011, which goes to prove accidents happen, travelers do get ill while on vacation.
My sister had a bike accident while on vacation in Arizona recently, which resulted in a rather speedy return to her home in Calgary for emergency surgery. Her travel insurance company was a big help in this emergency. It's highly recommended the travel insurance company you choose has a 1-800 assistance number. Her's did.
A recent travel article in the Toronto Star pointed to the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association. We're told it pays to be informed, this is a place to start.
The key to having coverage, after you purchased your travel insurance is proper disclosure of health information when you buy. If you're confused about how this works, read the Toronto Star article mentioned earlier. It spells out the important bit about pre-existing conditions, and when you're considered stable.
If you do have trouble with your claims, and you need an ombudsmen service, here's where you find them: OmbudService for Life and Health Insurance.
Here's another article from Manulife Financial, which may interest you: Tips For Travel Health Emergencies.
