Will Medicare cover you when traveling outside the U.S.?

As you pack your bags for that out-of-country trip, there's one more thing you'll want to do. That's check your insurance coverage.

You may be surprised to learn that Original Medicare does not pay for health care services or supplies you get outside the U.S. except in very limited situations.

If your circumstances do not match the limited exceptions, you are responsible to pay the full cost to the health care provider. If your situation matches one of the allowable exceptions, you still pay the coinsurance or copayments and deductibles you would normally pay if you received these services or supplies in the U.S.

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or other Medicare health plan, you may be entitled to additional coverage for health care services you receive outside the U.S. Advantage Plan coverage may vary so it's best to give your insurance agent a call and ask them about your coverage before you begin your trip.

For information on allowable exceptions go to http://www.medicare.gov/coverage/travel-need-health-care-outside-us.html or call 1-800-MEDICARE.

Bon voyage!