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Travel Insurance: Travel Tips Before and After Departure

Before Your Trip

 

Let your carrier know about any health changes before departure
If your health or medications change before your trip commences or you are awaiting further testing/test results, your coverage may be at risk. Please call your carrier to discuss how your policy and coverage might be affected.

 

Verify the trip dates on your policy
It is crucial that trip dates match those on the insurance policy. If your departure and return date change, ensure it is reflected in your policy. In the event that you neglect to update your policy with accurate trip dates, the policy may become void.

 

It’s easy to change the trip dates on your policy
Contact your carrier by phone or email to confirm new travel dates. There is no fee to change your policy information before it begins. However, once the policy starts, the effective date cannot be altered.

 

Ensure the accuracy of your personal information.
Does your personal information contain incorrect information, such as the wrong date of birth or address? Contact your insurance provider immediately if you are unsure or have any concerns.

 

Print out a copy of your wallet cards to keep with you at all times
When you need emergency medical attention, refer to your wallet cards and call the 24-hour number listed on them.

 

Familiarize yourself with coverage exclusions
Exclusions may include:• Limitations on coverage when you visit a country/region impacted by a travel advisory warning.
  • Exclusions relating to the consumption/misuse of alcohol or non-compliance with prescription medication.
  • Rules on high-risk activities, pregnancy, and stability requirements for treating pre-existing conditions.

 

If you have pre-existing medical conditions
Familiarize yourself with the stability periods. Depending on your policy, you may be covered for 365, 180, 90 or 30 days. To remain covered, your treatment must be unchanged during this period, and your condition cannot worsen. Some policies offer stability upgrades that provide coverage after seven days of being stable.

 

 

After Departure

Cross Border Planning

 

In an Emergency and prior to seeking medical assistance
It is vital to call the insurance company assistance centre at the phone number on your wallet card before seeking treatment or as soon as you are physically able. Be sure to carry your wallet card with you at all times.

 

To extend a policy while you are away
Call the insurance carrier at least three business days before the current policy expires. The carrier may extend the policy, provided you have not made – or intend to make – a claim. Do not assume an extension is in place unless you have spoken directly to your carrier.
If you have had a claim, special approval from the insurance provider may be required to extend your policy. Additionally, a significant change to your health could potentially result in the denial of an extension.

 

 

If you return early without making a claim, you may qualify for a refund
Your insurance carrier will require written proof indicating the date you returned. Acceptable documents must show your name, location and date. Administration fees, minimum refund amounts and limits to how long you have to apply for a refund may apply.
Examples of proof of early return include:
  • Credit card receipts.
  • Customs or border crossing documents.
  • Flight boarding passes, etc.

 

If you need to temporarily return home at any time during your trip
Please call your Insurance provider to notify them prior to returning. They can advise on the rules surrounding interruption to your coverage.

 

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