There are some important issues regarding Canadian travel health insurance. This article will focus only on USA citizens traveling to Canada. Before discussing health insurance, it is important to point out that you should inform the US State Department about your travel plans.
In this way, you can be traced should any emergency arise at home in your absence. Also, the Department can alert you if an unexpected crisis arises in Canada during your travels. All information provided will be treated as confidential, as legislated in the Privacy Act.
Regarding health insurance, speak to your health insurance carrier to establish your policy’s efficacy while you are in Canada. Will it provide cover for any potential emergency expenses? Most health plans do not carry cover for medical expenses in a foreign country unless the policy holder has bought extra cover.
If your health policy does not provide cover during your visit to Canada, speak to your travel agent. You can purchase temporary health cover from an accredited travel agent. The cost can be added into your package deal. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you will be covered for all medical expenses. Also included is cover for emergency services and a medical evacuation.
Most hospitals and doctors in Canada are likely to expect payment for their services immediately. Whilst a medical evacuation is highly unlikely, the cost of this will be more than $50,000. Therefore, be sure to check this aspect with your medical and travel insurance Ontario company.
Ask your travel insurance Ontario carrier the following additional questions. Will payment go directly to the relevant health care provider in Canada? If not, when will you personally be reimbursed? What about cover in the event of psychiatric treatment being necessary? What cover is applicable regarding my remains should I die?
If you are taking prescription medication to Canada, the medication should be stored in its original labeled container. Have a copy of the doctor’s prescription on hand, as well as the doctor’s contact details. Diabetics who are bringing syringes into Canada should be in possession of a doctor’s certificate stating that the syringes are for medical use. You must declare the syringes to the custom officials when you arrive in Canada.
HIV positive travelers must abide by the same rules regarding medications. Antiretroviral drugs should also be kept in their original containers. It is recommended that you get an extra script from your doctor in case you lose your drugs or they are stolen. On this subject, it is not obligatory for USA citizens to have an AIDS test to enter Canada.
Once you have established the requirements of Canadian travel health insurance, consider all other aspects relevant to your health. For example, if you wear spectacles, take a spare pair. If you are allergic to any foods and medicines, or if you have a chronic medical problem, it would be advisable to wear a medical alert bracelet. Also carry a letter from your doctor explaining your condition and what treatment is suggested if you fall ill.
Dan Pucher Insurance is an independent Broker offering personal and corporate solutions. When looking for Visitors to Canada insurance and Travel Insurance Ontario.
