Whether you are heading across the country to visit family or traveling overseas for the trip of a lifetime, it is important to understand how your Medicare coverage works when you travel.
Can you use Medicare in other states?
Yes, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is a federal program which means it works in all 50 states and U.S. territories. As long as the doctor or hospital accepts Medicare, you are covered. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) coverage can vary depending on your plan. This is because these plans often have provider networks based on your local area.
Can you use Medicare when traveling abroad?
In most cases, Original Medicare cannot be used outside of the U.S. This means that if you need hospital or medical care in a foreign country, you will likely need separate travel medical insurance or you will pay out of pocket. However, there are some cases where Medicare can cover care outside of the U.S.
- If you are in the U.S. but a foreign hospital is closer than the nearest U.S. hospital.
- If you are traveling through Canada without reasonable delay between Alaska and another state.
- If you are on a cruise ship and the ship is within 6 hours of a U.S. port.
Some Medicare supplement plans may offer travel emergency coverage in foreign countries. They typically cover 80% of emergency care costs after a deductible.
What is travel medical insurance?
Since Medicare does not typically cover international care, travel medical insurance may be a smart option. These short-term policies are designed to cover unexpected illnesses, injuries, or hospitalizations while you are abroad. Some plans may even help with lost luggage and trip cancellations.
Let’s talk
Traveling should be about making memories, not managing medical bills. For a free consultation, contact one of our experienced Avery Hall agents today at 410-742-5111 for Salisbury, 410-822-7300 for Easton, and 302-316-6565 for our Selbyville office.