Guide for Buying USA Visitor Insurance Plan

Finding the perfect visitor insurance policy is tough. The search can be grueling, with confusing policies, complicated jargon, and dozens of companies claiming to be the best.

Add a pre-existing condition to the mix, and finding a decent policy can seem impossible.

We've been there, too, and we're here to simplify the process so you'll know your options and have access to the coverage you need.

What is a Pre-Existing Condition and How Does It Affect Coverage?
A pre-existing condition is pretty much what it sounds like: it's an ongoing health problem that developed before you buy your policy, like congenital heart disease, arthritis, or high blood pressure. Purchasing health insurance for visitors in USA can be exorbitantly complicated if you have a pre-existing condition; depending on what your condition is, you might have difficulty getting that condition covered at all. In many cases, this isn't an issue.

For pre-existing conditions that are under control with medication, you can just take your medications with you to the U.S. from your home country and purchase a policy for emergency health issues or those unrelated to your pre-existing condition (more on that below).

A Pre-Existing Condition Doesn't Necessarily Disqualify You From Coverage
It doesn't have to mean you're paying an arm and a leg for visitor health insurance, either. You can opt to purchase a standard policy. This type of policy is often much less expensive, but it still gives you the layer of protection you need if the unexpected occurs during your trip to the U.S.

You'll need to talk to your insurance agency about your specific options, but for many with chronic conditions, choosing a policy that covers all the standard what-ifs except for those related to the pre-existing condition is a great way to prepare for a trip.

Coverage for the Acute Onset of Symptoms
If you're one of the many individuals with a chronic condition that's generally under control but sometimes flares up and requires immediate assistance, there's help. Some policies cover the acute onset of symptoms related to a pre-existing condition, along with other standard policy coverages.

There are some stipulations here, though; here's a breakdown:

- This covers sudden and unexpected outbreaks that weren't predicted by a physician and that didn't gradually occur

- Treatment must be obtained within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms

- Treatment must be obtained before you reach the age limit specified in your policy--and after the policy's "effective" date

Keep in mind what an acute onset of symptoms is NOT. It's not a condition that gradually becomes worse, with expected medications and medical care increasing over time. It's for sudden, unexpected flare-ups of a condition you already have.

Things to Keep In Mind When Purchasing A Policy
Travel insurance for USA visitors doesn't have to be a pain to purchase. These tips will help you make sure you understand your coverage options and the policy you choose--whether you have a pre-existing condition or not.

Brush Up on the Jargon
Make sure you understand basic insurance terms (copayment, deductible, precertification). Take a few minutes to read up on the words you need to know to shop smart.

Ask Questions
Insurance agents are there to help. When getting a quote or considering your options, don't hesitate to ask questions about what's covered, what isn't covered, or anything that doesn't make sense.

Insurance policies can be confusing, and there's no harm in asking for a more detailed explanation until you fully understand what you need to know.

Read the Policy Before You Sign
Make sure you know exactly what you're signing up for before you make a payment. Reading the Schedule of Benefits/Limits is the most important part to go over carefully; this details exactly what is and isn't covered under your policy.

Again, if you have questions while reading this section, ask! Now is the time to make sure you have the information you need.

Know Precertification Requirements
When you decide you need to seek medical attention, it's important to get precertified by your insurance company before care is rendered--at least for some conditions. This can vary widely from policy to policy, so make sure you understand what conditions you'd need to be precertified for, and what steps to take when you need to file a claim.

Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, staying covered while you're in the U.S. can give you the peace of mind to enjoy your trip and focus on the important things--not your health insurance. Have questions? We're here to help. Contact us today for more information or to get a quote.