If you think jet lag or lost luggage is at the top of travelers' worries, think again. Latest data revealed that emergency medical coverage is the number one concern for 28.2 % of travelers. That means nearly one in four people buy travel insurance to get coverage for health concerns while being away from home.
 

Source
Based on a survey of 2,017 respondents who have purchased travel insurance at least once, the statistic above showcases the potential scenarios travelers wanted to have coverage on. The survey revealed that 80 percent of travelers booked travel insurance as a precaution against emergency medical scenarios.

Travel medical insurance offers coverage for unexpected medical expenses incurred during a trip, which can save travelers thousands of dollars in the event of an illness or injury. This type of insurance can cover a wide range of medical services, including hospital stays, surgeries, and emergency transportation. Many travelers, especially those venturing to remote locations or countries with high healthcare costs, prefer having this coverage in their travel insurance.
 

What is driving the concern?

People know that healthcare costs can be expensive, especially in foreign countries. A simple sprain or a sudden illness can turn into a financial nightmare without the right insurance. This reality has led many to prioritize emergency medical insurance coverage when planning their trips.
 

What does this mean for US travelers?

Most primary health insurance plans in the U.S., including Medicare and Medicaid, do not cover medical expenses incurred outside the country. This can leave travelers vulnerable to high out-of-pocket costs. So apart from emergency medical coverage, many travelers also opt for medical evacuation and repatriation coverage.

This type of travel insurance is helpful for those traveling to areas where medical facilities may be limited. In such situations, emergency medical evacuation coverage ensures that the injured traveler can be transported to a facility that can provide the necessary care.

As travel resumes and more people venture out for trips, the importance of medical emergency coverage cannot be overstated. While purchasing travel insurance might seem like an added expense, it can be a lifesaver in case of an emergency. Given the potential risks and financial consequences of traveling without adequate coverage, it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly.