Getting sick or injured while travelling at home or abroad isn’t just stressful, it’s also expensive. Some hospitals in the U.S. charge thousands of dollars per day, not including doctors' fees or diagnostic services.
Canadian provincial health plans cover some medical expenses outside of Canada – typically no more than a few hundred dollars a day – but they leave a significant financial gap. Even when travelling within Canada, provincial plans limit coverage for care in other provinces.
Medical care and additional benefits
Without emergency health and medical insurance, you’re responsible for your own medical expenses. Getting travel insurance before you leave is a small investment that packs a lot of value.
In the event of a medical emergency, you can call your insurer’s worldwide emergency assistance team for help. Experienced, multilingual claims staff are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They can verify your coverage to the hospital, arrange emergency medical evacuation, co-ordinate payments and contact your family doctor and relatives.
Additional travel insurance coverage options include:
- Trip cancellation and trip interruption. If your trip has to be delayed due to work, an unexpected medical emergency of a family member, extreme weather or another covered reason, you may be eligible for a refund with Trip Cancellation and Interruption insurance.
- Options for older travelers. Coverage offered by credit card(s) often comes with age limitations. The Co-operators travel insurance plans offer affordable, comprehensive coverage for Canadians aged 60 or older.
- Multi-trip plan. If you’re taking a few trips this year, consider the Multi-trip Plan offered by The Co-operators. You can take as many trips as you want throughout the year without having to purchase insurance every time you travel outside of Canada, provided your trip falls within the number of allotted days on your annual plan.
Other travel tips to consider
Book your trip through a reputable travel agency or online retailer. You should also visit the Global Affairs Canada website for the latest travel advisories. Other ideas to keep in mind are:
- Review your travel insurance policy when you receive it
- Ensure all passports are valid
- Find out if you need an International Driving Permit, car rental insurance or international proof of insurance
- Print your valid medical travel insurance policy (some countries, like Cuba, require proof)
- Check your airline’s luggage weight limits and restrictions
- Print this packing checklist and get more helpful packing tips
For more information on travel insurance, contact your local Financial Advisor, or get a free travel insurance quote today.
Travel insurance does not cover everything. For complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the policy. Travel insurance is underwritten by CUMIS General Insurance Company, a member of the Co-operators group of companies and administered by Allianz Global Assistance, which is a registered business name of AZGA Service Canada Inc.
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