Health Articles And Advice

Visitor Medical Insurance plans are available for visitors who visit the US. There are several plans one can choose from. You cannot compare two plans solely on cost; there are different features in visitor health insurance plans that make each plan different. You must understand the plan details before you purchase a plan.

1. Fixed Benefit and Comprehensive plans: Fixed benefit plans have pre defined benefit limits for each type of covered medical expense. For example, a policy with a $100,000 maximum limit may offer a maximum of $2000 for surgery, a maximum of $800 for diagnostic services (X-rays, scans) etc. Fixed Benefits Plans have the lowest premiums, but you must be aware that the benefits offered are relatively limited as compared to the Comprehensive Coverage Plans. Out of pocket costs are not pre defined. Comprehensive plans cover you up to the policy maximum and do not have individual sub limits for each expense. Out of pocket costs are pre defined. These plans are usually more expensive.

2. Co insurance: It defines the split of expenses between the insurance company and the insured. If the percentage the insured person pays is higher, the plan premium is lower. For example if the plan has a 70/30 co insurance rate, the insured pays 30% of the eligible expenses and 70% is paid by the insurance company. There can sometimes be a cap on the co-insurance. Beyond that amount eligible expenses can be covered 100%.

3. Deductible: It is the amount that must be paid by the insured before the insurance company pays for any covered service. Once the deductible is met the insurance will cover eligible expenses. The higher the deductible, lower the premium.

4. Pre existing conditions: While coverage is usually not available for pre existing conditions, it is still prudent to find out how pre existing conditions are defined by the insurance company. Some plans will exclude coverage only for those conditions that the insured knew about and was receiving treatment before the start date of the insurance. Some others may exclude all those conditions that may have begun before the start of the plan even if the person had no knowledge of the condition.

5. Maximum coverage amount: This is also called policy maximum. It is the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for all the claims during the time period. A higher plan limit will have higher premiums.

Talk to your visitor travel health insurance specialist for more tips and advice on selecting the right plan for you. Compare prices for plans that offer the same level of benefits. Do not end up without health insurance.