Travel insurance can provide valuable protection when unexpected illness or injury occurs abroad. However, travellers are sometimes uncertain about how to use their insurance when they actually need medical attention.
Your level of cover will depend on your individual policy. Some insurers reimburse eligible medical expenses after treatment, while others may require prior authorisation for particular procedures, hospital admissions or more significant expenses.
Whenever you receive medical treatment abroad, keep your documentation carefully. This may include invoices, receipts, prescriptions, medical reports, investigation results and evidence of payment. Your insurer may request some or all of these when assessing a claim.
If your condition requires more extensive treatment, contact your travel insurer as soon as reasonably possible. They may need to communicate with the treating medical provider or request information regarding your diagnosis and proposed treatment.
SOS Tourist Doctor can provide appropriate medical documentation following consultations and, with your consent, assist with relevant medical information required for communication with your insurer.
Before travelling, it is always worthwhile taking a few minutes to understand your policy. Knowing who to contact and what is covered can save considerable stress if you become ill abroad.