Private Travel Health Insurance: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how private travel health insurance works for Canadians traveling outside their home province or country to cover medical emergencies.
Private travel health insurance provides medical coverage for emergencies that occur when you are away from your home province or outside of the country.
Who it's for
This insurance is intended for Canadians who are traveling away from their home province or traveling internationally. It is a supplemental option for those who need coverage beyond what their standard provincial health plan provides while they are on a trip.
What you get
When you purchase a policy, you get coverage for medical emergencies that occur while you are outside your home province or country. This coverage is designed to pick up where provincial health plans leave off, helping to manage medical costs that are not covered by your local government health coverage during your travels.
What it costs you
The cost of this insurance is paid through premiums. Because different providers offer different levels of coverage and terms, the annual premiums vary depending on the specific plan you select and the level of protection you require for your trip.
The catch to know
The most important thing to understand is that pre-existing conditions are often excluded from coverage. This means if you have a medical condition that existed before you purchased the insurance, a claim related to that specific condition might not be covered. You should review your policy carefully to see how it handles your medical history.
How to apply
- Research various private insurance providers to find options that suit your travel needs.
- Compare different plan options, focusing on the level of emergency coverage provided.
- Review the specific terms and conditions of the policy, paying close attention to exclusions.
- Complete the application and payment process with your chosen private insurer.