Things Foreign Travelers Must Know About Healthcare Facilities in US

Some Facts About the Healthcare System in the USA

The United States of America is known to have the finest healthcare facilities in the world. If you are visiting the country, you must take steps to secure your health by taking the recommended vaccines and carrying vital medicines if you are suffering from any medical condition. We also advise you to get the best travel insurance for USA which covers all your medical as well as non-medical emergency expenses.

The healthcare costs in the USA are highly expensive. USA travel plans are customized to meet the high costs and protect you from the financial burden. If you face any illness or injury during your trip to the USA, the costs you would incur depends largely on the type of illness, medical treatment and the healthcare facility you go to.

It is advisable that you have clear information about the US healthcare system to avoid any confusion later.

Here are some important facts.

High Costs

Emergency medical care like stitches for an injury or antibiotics for an illness can cost you hundreds of dollars. Even simple diagnostic tests like X-ray and electrocardiogram tests can cost you a few hundred to a thousand dollars.

Hence, do ensure that your USA travel insurance plan covers you sufficiently for these expenses.

Procedures

When availing any service from a healthcare facility in the United States, you must be clear about the procedures which are quite elaborate. Be ready as you may have to fill out a large set of forms. This is one way under the American legal system to protect doctors and healthcare institutions from facing any legal proceeding.

Also, before the doctor examines you, you may have to meet the nurses or assistants of the doctor who will carry out the necessary procedures like blood pressure check-up. Moreover, you might have to wait long hours in the emergency room.

Paying Medical Bills

In some hospitals or healthcare centers, you may have to pay for your medical treatment expenses upfront. You can get them reimbursed later, though, from your insurer.

Similarly, when you are purchasing medicines from a pharmacy, you must pay the bills upfront. You must also carry a prescription without which you cannot buy the medicines.

In any case, having travel insurance for USA will cover all your medical expenses including in-patient and out-patient care.

Doctor Consultations

Firstly, if you face any situation that needs immediate medical attention, it is always safe to dial 911. The ambulance costs range from 400 USD to 1,200 USD. So, make sure your travel plan covers you adequately.

When meeting a doctor for the first time, you will have to schedule an appointment and provide your complete medical history, specific health condition and contact details. Remember to carry your identity proof and medical records with you.

Medical Evacuation

During your trip, it could happen that the place where you are located does not have the required medical facility. In such a case, a medical evacuation would be necessary and that would cost you anywhere between 20,000 USD to 250,000 USD. A medical evacuation takes place with the help of an air ambulance which has all the vital medical equipment and the patient is taken to the nearest healthcare facility. With the help of USA travel insurance plans, it becomes hassle-free for foreign travellers to seek medical attention and get their medical evacuation expenses covered.

Take the best decision to safeguard your US trip by choosing ‘Explore’ a customized travel insurance plan offered by Care. The plan offers medical evacuation cover of up to 50,000 USD.

Disclaimer: Plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.