Does Medicare cover me outside the U.S?

Planning to take a cruise where you will be stopping at ports outside the U.S.? Before you go on your trip, ask your agent about your 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. Medicare considers the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa to be a part of the U.S. 

On your cruise for example, Original Medicare may cover medically necessary health care services you receive on board the ship within the territorial waters adjoining the land areas of the U.S. However, Medicare will NOT pay for health care services you get when a ship is more than 6 hours away from a U.S. port when you receive the services, regardless of whether it’s an emergency.

Original Medicare will provide coverage for out of country travelers only if their situations meet very specific exceptions as outlined in your Medicare & You Handbook. If your circumstances do not match the allowable exceptions, you will be 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.

Medicare drug plans (Part D) cannot cover prescription drugs you buy outside the U.S. so be sure to bring a sufficient supply of your prescription medications with you.

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare Supplement, 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.

While I make every effort to provide you with up to date, accurate information, these are general guidelines. Your situation or circumstances may be different. For answers to your life, health or Medicare plan questions please contact me at Mutsko Insurance Services, LLC, 440-255-5700 or email me today.