Everything you need to know about medical assistance

August 22, 2024

As you head out on your next vacation, keep in mind that unexpected medical situations can arise at anytime, anywhere. That’s why the medical assistance that travel insurance offers is so crucial, providing resources, confidence and support when you’re in an unfamiliar part of the world. For instance, SafeTrip International Travel Medical Plus plans include emergency assistance services that are available 24/7, no matter where you are in your travels. 

Why travel medical assistance is an important addition to your next trip.

The importance of having travel medical coverage and access to a 24/7 support team cannot be overstated. Adding medical assistance coverage to your next trip is crucial as it provides a safety net for unforeseen health issues, as demonstrated by an American traveler in Mexico City who, with SafeTrip's medical assistance, quickly accessed urgent care and necessary medications, allowing her to continue her travels with minimal disruption. This ensures access to health care and emergency support, making travel safer and less stressful.

What happens when you need medical assistance?

If you are on the road and fall ill, are injured, or have another health challenge such as a dental issue, SafeTrip makes it easy to find the support and information you need. Of course, if you’re experiencing an emergency, go immediately to the nearest hospital without delay or contact local emergency services. Once your situation is under control, contact SafeTrip to support. In all other situations, simply call the SafeTrip 24/7 Emergency Response Center (ERC) number. Your medical assistance coordinator will ask for:

• Your name
• Your UnitedHealthcare Global (UHCG) ID number (shown on your SafeTrip card)
• A description of your situation

Once the coordinator has that information, they’re able to help you in a myriad of ways:

Identify medical professionals: You will be directed to a medical provider near you that can best address your situation.

Condition monitoring: Doctors and nurses from our in-house clinical teams will monitor your situation and analyze the quality of care you are receiving. They’re even able to communicate directly with the local medical team if needed.

Hospital admission and discharge: If you need to spend time in a hospital, we’ll help with both admission and discharge planning, so the process is smoother and less stressful for you.

Insurance records: Your SafeTrip insurance information will be relayed to the local treating physician to ensure seamless care.

Lost, stolen or replacement medications: If medications are not available locally or have been lost or stolen, we’ll help you get what you need.

Replacement of medical devices: In addition to help with medications, if you lose or break your eyeglasses, contacts or any medical devices you may need, SafeTrip can help arrange replacements.

Communication: We’ll help you keep your family informed of your situation and how you are doing.

Hotel arrangements: If you have to change your itinerary due to your medical situation, we’ll assist in making hotel arrangements before or after hospitalization or for ongoing care.

The SafeTrip assistance team even offers payment help, such as:

• Advance payment. If a hospital, clinic or medical care provider requires payment up front, SafeTrip can arrange for upfront payment up to your maximum benefit amount.
• International payment facilitation. If a physician or hospital provides care then issues a bill, they can confirm your protection plan coverage with SafeTrip, then send their bill directly to us for payment.

Travel with confidence knowing medical assistance is there if you need it

As you plan your next vacation, take a moment to check out our travel preparation tips, including advice on comprehensive trip planning, ways to stay safer and smart steps to protect your health before departure. Be sure to research travel plans that include travel medical assistance so you’re not without support if you need to deal with an unexpected medical situation. The assistance can make what could be a stressful situation much more manageable, and could turn a vacation-ending crisis into a small interruption that’s easily addressed — freeing you to move forward in your adventure.

If a dental emergency arises while you are traveling, all you need to do is call.

1. Contact SafeTrip: Dial the 24-hour Emergency Response Center.
2. Follow instructions: Our team will help you find the nearest pre-screened dentist and help arrange an appointment.
3. Use your benefits: Take advantage of the translation services and financial coverage provided by your SafeTrip plan.

While no one anticipates a dental emergency during their travels, being prepared can significantly help reduce stress and discomfort. By understanding how to prevent dental issues, knowing what to do when they occur, and utilizing resources offered through your SafeTrip travel insurance, you can ensure that your travel experiences remain positive, even in the face of unexpected dental challenges. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your smile healthy and bright, no matter where your adventures take you.