Medicare Coverage Outside the United States

Medicare Coverage Outside the United States is a 4-page legal document that was released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on December 1, 2016 and used nation-wide.

FAQ

Q: Does Medicare cover me if I travel outside the United States?
A: No, in most cases Medicare does not cover healthcare services outside the United States.

Q: Are there any exceptions to Medicare coverage outside the United States?
A: Yes, Medicare may cover certain healthcare services in specific situations, such as emergency care in Canada or when traveling through the United States.

Q: What is emergency care and when does Medicare cover it outside the United States?
A: Emergency care refers to a medical condition that requires immediate attention to prevent serious harm or death. Medicare may cover emergency care in Canada if you are traveling directly to or from Alaska.

Q: What types of healthcare services are not covered by Medicare outside the United States?
A: Non-emergency care, routine check-ups, and most prescription drugs are not covered by Medicare when you are outside the United States.

Q: Should I consider purchasing additional travel medical insurance when going abroad?
A: Yes, it is recommended to consider purchasing additional travel medical insurance to cover any healthcare expenses when traveling outside the United States.