There are some important issues regarding Canadian travel health insurance. This article will focus only on USA citizens traveling to Canada. Before discussing health insurance, it is important to point out that you should inform the US State Department about your travel plans.
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 insurance excludes cover while you are in Canada, speak to a travel agent about a temporary health plan. These plans are not expensive and are certainly worthwhile. You will receive cover for any health related expenses, including medical evacuations and emergency services. It is very unwise to travel without some form of health insurance.
Should you require medical treatment in Canada, it is likely that the hospital and doctor will require payment immediately. Regarding a medical evacuation, although unlikely, this could cost as much as $50,000. Make sure you discuss this with your health carrier.
Also ascertain with your health insurer if payment will be made to the healthcare provider in Canada, or if you will be paid back at a later date. In addition, ask about cover for psychiatric care, and what type of cover is applicable regarding your remains in the event of your death.
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.
The same medication rules apply to travelers who are HIV positive and are taking antiretroviral drugs. It would be a good idea to ask your doctor for an extra script in case your drugs are stolen or if you lose them. On the subject of HIV, USA citizens are not required to undergo AIDS tests before entering Canada.
Once you have established the requirements of Canadian travel health insurance, consider all other aspects relevant to your health. For example, if you wear spectacles, take a spare pair. If you are allergic to any foods and medicines, or if you have a chronic medical problem, it would be advisable to wear a medical alert bracelet. Also carry a letter from your doctor explaining your condition and what treatment is suggested if you fall ill.
