I'm on Medicare which does not cover out of the US. I will buy health insurance for my trip to Rome, but can't decide what amt. A basic policy gives $10,000 in coverage. I'm wondering just how far that would go if something serious came up. I'm pretty healthy, but crossing a street can be chancy there. I'd like an idea of what travelers normally consider a reasonable amt of medical coverage.
Posted by
winston salem, nc, usa
1078 posts
I use IMGlobal.com when traveling outside of the U.S.; they have a limit of $50,000 once you reach 70, however, prior to that, I would typically buy $100,000 with a $1000 deductable. Fortunately, have never had to use it.
Just this last June, when I had customers' over in Italy, the COO had a severe attack of Arithima(?) and spent a day in the hospital, had all kinds of tests, and was put on meds. When he returned to pay for the treatment, the hospital declined payment. We "understood" it was because he was in Italy on business so there was no charges-trust me, that's what the reason we got from the hospital, which we had trouble believing but he hasn't received any billing to this point.
Posted by
Long Beach, California, USA
3391 posts
My husband became very ill in Italy once and required an ambulance ride and a short stay in a hospital. We were billed when we got home but it was quite negligible. If you choose to buy coverage make sure to read the fine print...there are often exemptions. The one thing medically related I always make sure to get is evacuation insurance - if you become very ill or injured and have to be medically evacuated home, it's very expensive. To find a policy that fits your requirements try this website. I usually end up using Travelguard.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16894 posts
You are not the same age as the subject of this recent Forum thread, but the links and advice there are still relevant.
Posted by
OP
Indianapolis, Indiana, usa
360 posts
thanks to both of you. I'm working with TravelGuard and would like to make up my mind by tomorrow. I saw a dentist in London once with no charge. Broke my ankle in Paris but never saw anyone other than the person at the pharmacy. We both thought I had a sprain. I just walked around for a few days and then cut my trip short. Things happen.
Posted by
Toronto, Canada
415 posts
My understanding is that emergency room visits and treatments in the emergency room are free for everyone in Italy, including tourists. Once you are admitted, it's billable so you still need insurance for something that's serious enough to need hospital admission. I'm afraid I don't know how much would be a prudent amount.