Going on a trip
I travel for work. What kind of health coverage do I need when I’m out
of the country?
If you are covered under a group benefits program, short trips outside the country are usually covered, but be sure to check exactly what is covered. Most plans offered by a company do not insure the following:
- Trips longer than 30 days
- Trip cancellation
- Trip interruption
- Baggage
- Car rental
Provincial health care plans and Canadians travelling abroad
Canada is one of the few countries in the world that has government-funded health care. Outside Canada, however, your provincial health care plan only goes so far. Coverage is very low for medical expenses incurred outside your province of residence. It is essential for all Canadians travelling outside their home province to obtain supplemental insurance while travelling.
Protect your health and your financial investment while you are outside Canada
Many Canadians are well-educated on the costs of health care in the United States. The cost of receiving medical care in an emergency anywhere in the world can affect the quality of the care you receive, and it can put you in financial ruin. Don’t leave anything to chance: protect yourself, receive the care you deserve and come home without a hefty medical bill.
Do I really need insurance when I travel outside Canada?
Your provincial health care coverage only goes so far when you leave Canada. OHIP coverage on average pays $400/day outside your province of residence. With medical expenses in the United States reaching over $1,500/day for a basic hospital room, $400 does not provide much security.
A 15-day annual travel policy is included in your health insurance plan, so you don’t have to worry about buying a travel insurance policy every time you hop across the border. And, if you travel for more than 15 days at a time, you can easily top up your insurance, so you can travel at the spur of the moment and know you’re well protected. With a health insurance plan from Blue Cross, you can protect your health, at home and away.