Citizen International Insurance

By Ray Sondeo

The universal healthcare debate occurring in the United States often raises questions about similar programs employed internationally. But what Americans traveling abroad may not realize is that the coverage available to citizens of other countries may not also be available to them. Additionally, U.S. citizens living abroad or traveling internationally may find that their current insurance policy has many limitations in regards to what sort of coverage they're allowed overseas. With that in mind, it's a great idea to buy an international insurance policy whenever living internationally or traveling abroad for an extended period.

While the country you're visiting may offer comprehensive, free insurance plans to its own citizens, chances are good you as a visitor will not be allowed to use them. When traveling for short durations, be sure to consult your own health insurance provider and see what coverage is currently built into your plan, and what extra coverage might be available for purchase.

However, if you're planning to live abroad or travel for a longer period of time, then a special health insurance policy is advised. One example of the kind of policy you'll want is the Citizen Secure Insurance plan, which is backed by Lloyds of London. A plan like Citizen Secure lets travelers know that their short-term residency or extended stay trip will be free of worry regarding whether their insurance will or won't be accepted.

Check with your insurance plan representative for specifics regarding plan eligibility for your international insurance policy, as each plan has its own rules and regulations. For example, the Citizen Secure International plan will allow anyone aged-- days to 74 years to be eligible for coverage, and it also dictates that the policyholder be residing internationally for at least a six month term.

Because these plans approach your coverage needs from a long term perspective, they tend to be more comprehensive, even offering coverage for items like transplants and mental healthcare. Another benefit you may want to include in your plan, depending on where you'll be residing, is supplemental evacuation care. If you're living in an area that is at risk for violence or natural disasters, then your investment in international health insurance may be the deciding factor in securing the best medical care.

Other considerations include travelers assistance features like locating lost luggage, establishing communication with family and colleagues in the event of a catastrophe, and obtaining emergency fund transfers. These are significant value-adds to these very comprehensive insurance policies.

You can also tailor your plan to meet the nuances of your lifestyle. For example, supplemental sports coverage is offered through the Citizen Secure insurance plan, so that if your stay involves high-risk sports activities like mountain climbing, you can purchase additional superior coverage.

For short-term travelers, international health insurance should be a strong consideration. If you're going to live abroad for a period exceeding six months, it's a necessity. Think about where you?ll be staying, for how long, and what sort of activities you'll engage in, and you?ll be well-prepared to find the perfect plan.

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