Why travelers may need a medical evacuation

June 27, 2018

Traveling overseas is usually safe, but accidents—and even emergencies—can happen. During a medical emergency in a foreign country, a medical evacuation may be necessary if the right care isn't available locally. When you or a loved one are sick or injured abroad, making arrangements for getting appropriate care can be very difficult, especially if you don't speak the language, understand the health care system, or need to be moved to another location.

Evacuation costs can add up

Medical evacuation costs vary, depending on your location and the severity of the medical problem. An evacuation can run anywhere from $10,000 to $250,000 or more. And, you'll probably be expected to pay for the service up front.

How SafeTrip Travel Protection can help with a medical evacuation

In the rare case that you or a loved one needs a medical evacuation while traveling overseas, a SafeTrip Travel Protection plan will pay all of the eligible expenses, up to the maximum amount of coverage for your plan, less any deductible amount.If adequate medical treatment is unavailable in the local area, your plan will cover transportation expenses to the closest hospital or medical facility that can provide the care you need.UnitedHealthcare will either wire or guarantee the funds needed for admitting you into a hospital for medical treatment.Simply contact the 24/7 Global Emergency Response Center. Our emergency response team works around the clock and speaks more than 100 languages. Call the toll-free phone number on your ID card. If a toll-free number is not available where you are, call collect.We’re by your side, worldwide.