Regarding Canadian travel health insurance coverage, there are a few important factors to consider. This article will be pertinent to USA citizens traveling to Canada. The first thing you should do is send a letter to the US State Department advising them that you are traveling to Canada and provide the dates.
This will enable the State Department to get hold of you should there be a family crisis, or other emergency, while you are away. The Department can also contact you if a sudden crisis occurs in the country that you are planning to visit. Any information you provide will be kept confidential in terms of 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.
Also establish with your insurer whether payment will be made direct to the Canadian health care provider, or if you will later be refunded. Ask about coverage for psychiatric treatment, and what cover applies with regards to your remains if you die in Canada.
If you bring prescription drugs into Canada, they should be kept in their original labeled containers. Keep a copy of your doctor’s script on hand and his or her phone number. Diabetics who take syringes to Canada will have to declare these to custom officials on arrival. You will also need a doctor’s letter confirming that they are used for medical reasons.
Regarding antiretroviral drugs, the same rules are applicable. The drugs must be labeled and stored in original packs or bottles. HIV travelers should be in possession of an extra script from their physician in case the drugs are stolen or lost. On this topic, Canada does not require USA visitors to have AIDS testing.
If you wear eyeglasses, be sure to take an extra pair. Also, if you suffer with allergies to certain medications, foods or other substances, wear a medical alert. The same applies if you have an unusual health condition. Ask your doctor for a letter explaining the condition and what treatment should be applied in an emergency. Keep this letter in your wallet. If you have taken all necessary precautions and are satisfied that you have met with all Canadian travel health insurance provisions, you should enjoy a hassle free trip.
Dan Pucher Insurance is an independent Broker offering personal and corporate solutions. When looking for Visitors to Canada insurance and Travel Insurance Ontario.