Adventure Travel Overseas

Visitor Medical Insurance plans are available for visitors who visit the US. There are several plans one can choose from. You cannot compare two plans solely on cost; there are different features in visitor health insurance plans that make each plan different. You must understand the plan details before you purchase a plan.

1. Fixed Benefit and Comprehensive plans: Fixed benefit plans have pre defined benefit limits for each type of covered medical expense. For example, a policy with a $100,000 maximum limit may offer a maximum of $2000 for surgery, a maximum of $800 for diagnostic services (X-rays, scans) etc. Fixed Benefits Plans have the lowest premiums, but you must be aware that the benefits offered are relatively limited as compared to the Comprehensive Coverage Plans. Out of pocket costs are not pre defined. Comprehensive plans cover you up to the policy maximum and do not have individual sub limits for each expense. Out of pocket costs are pre defined. These plans are usually more expensive.

2. Co insurance: It defines the split of expenses between the insurance company and the insured. If the percentage the insured person pays is higher, the plan premium is lower. For example if the plan has a 70/30 co insurance rate, the insured pays 30% of the eligible expenses and 70% is paid by the insurance company. There can sometimes be a cap on the co-insurance. Beyond that amount eligible expenses can be covered 100%.

3. Deductible: This is the out pocket costs for the insured before the insurance benefits are available. The deductible amount is chosen by the insured while buying the plan. Choose a high deductible if you want lower plan costs and a lower deductible if you want to keep out of pocket costs for medical expenses lower.

4. Preexisting conditions: They are medical conditions that the insured was receiving treatment for prior to start of the plan. Pregnancy, blood pressure and diabetes are some examples of pre existing conditions. Some plans can offer coverage after a waiting period while some do not cover them. Each plan defines pre existing conditions differently, it is best to get all the information before you buy a plan.

5. Maximum coverage amount: This is also called policy maximum. It is the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for all the claims during the time period. A higher plan limit will have higher premiums.

Talk to your visitor travel health insurance specialist for more tips and advice on selecting the right plan for you. Compare prices for plans that offer the same level of benefits. Do not end up without health insurance.