Cheap car hire Mexico - Medical Insurance

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Medical Insurance

MEDICAL INSURANCE: Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services, and U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States . Charges may vary from doctor to doctor, and Americans may be charged more than the prevailing rate for services rendered to locals. You may wish to have the attending doctor explain procedures and costs before undertaking treatment.

Local clinics in Cancun do not accept U.S. health insurance, and often charge fees well above U.S. rates. Several clinics have been known to charge for services not rendered, and some U.S. citizens have experienced serious difficulties in settling their accounts.

The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and if it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States . However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas, including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical air evacuation to the United States may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or whether you will be reimbursed later for expense that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page.