The Alberta Government wants to make sure Albertans traveling outside the country are safe and have medical coverage in worst case scenarios.
The government says even if you are staying within Canada, it can be a good idea to purchase medical travel insurance. If Albertans need access to health care services while they’re out of the province and within Canada, those services may not be fully covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan. If Albertans don’t have medical travel insurance, they will be required to pay for uninsured services. Before you travel, there are some things you should look into.
The “Before You Go” Checklist:
- Make sure you understand which medical and hospital services the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan covers outside Alberta and what is not covered.
- Check your existing medical insurance like your credit card coverage and work or private health benefit or insurance plans.
- Purchase medical travel insurance. Make sure you understand what is covered under the policy and what is not covered, and the effective dates. Some policies will restrict or limit coverage (for example, if you have a pre-existing medical condition).
- Disclose any pre-existing medical conditions and all your medications, including over-the-counter medications, in the health section of the travel insurance form.
- Pack your Alberta Personal Health Card, travel insurance documents and the emergency contact number for your travel insurance. Keep them where they are easy to find.
- If you’re unsure about what your medical travel insurance policy covers or what is considered a pre-existing medical condition, ask your insurance provider.