Travel Insurance: What a Canadian Should Look For in a Policy

Although Canada is one of the most fortunate places in the world for exceptional health care, one should not rely solely on their provincial health care coverage while traveling abroad.  It is up to the individual to become familiar with their travel insurance policy guidelines, and take proper precautions in case of emergency.

The Public Health Agency of Canada has created a checklist to keep Canadians safe while they travel:

1. Coverage is supplied before and after your trip, and clearly explains deductible expenses

2. Your insurance plan is available for the entire time of your stay, and is renewable

3. Emergency contact number is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from any location

4. Hospitalization costs are covered for illness or injury, up to $250,000, and provides full payment of bills and cash advances immediately, also emergency transportation

5. Travel insurance should include coverage for prescription medications, and pre-existing medical conditions

6. If you need to leave your destination to go back to Canada for medical evaluation, your insurance plan will take care of the expenses to do so.  Most insurance plans will also include a medical professional to accompany you during resettlement.

7. In case of accidental death, your insurance company should be able to return your remains to Canada

8. Ensure that emergency dentistry is covered

Via: Well on Your Way – A Canadian’s Guide to Healthy Travel Abroad

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