I get this question a lot, especially from people who travel internationally and want to know exactly what they’d owe if something went wrong outside the United States. Medicare doesn’t work overseas, but some Medicare Supplements do offer a small foreign travel emergency benefit.
Let me walk you through a simple example.
You’re on a short trip (under 60 days), you have a true emergency, and the total bill comes to $5,000.
Here’s how the math works:
1. You pay the $250 foreign travel deductible.
- This is a separate deductible just for foreign emergencies. It has nothing to do with the large deductible High-Deductible Plan F or G uses inside the U.S.
2. After that, the plan pays 80% of the remaining bill.
- Once you subtract the $250 deductible, you’re left with $4,750. Your plan pays 80% of that amount.
- 80% of $4,750 = $3,800 paid by the plan.
3. You pay the remaining 20%.
- That comes to $950.
So, on a $5,000 emergency bill overseas, your total out-of-pocket cost would be:
- $250 (deductible)
- $950 (your 20%)
- Total: $1,200
Your Medicare Supplement Plan would pay the other $3,800 out of the foreign travel emergency benefit.
Keep in mind, this benefit is limited:
- it only applies to emergencies
- only during the first 60 days of your trip
- and only up to a $50,000 lifetime maximum.
It’s helpful, but it’s not designed to replace full international travel insurance.
If you travel regularly – or spend any significant time abroad – you’ll want a true international medical plan to go alongside your Medicare coverage.
Want help with your Medicare? Please schedule an appointment with The Medicare Family. We’ll walk you through the plans, prices, and answer any questions you have about your unique situation.
