Nobody expects to experience a medical emergency while traveling; having travel insurance can help with any unexpected surprises. Here are a few things you may want to plan for in the event that you have a medical emergency.
Emergency Support Person
It is important to establish who will make your decisions when you are unable or require assistance to do so. Even though you may not be incapacitated, it is difficult to make decisions and plans from within a hospital setting. Your decision maker should have access to funds to provide payment of any expenses that may not be a policy benefit (i.e. inpatient rehab), as well as your deductible (if applicable). Your decision maker should also be able to receive and convey information to other members of your support system. If you are incapacitated, it is important that your Power of Attorney (POA) has easy access to your POA document.
Travelling with Pets
Create a plan that outlines what will happen to your pet(s) if you are hospitalized while travelling. Give consideration as to how your pet(s) will return to Canada in the event you are unable to return home by the same way you travelled to your destination
Access to your medical records
Access to your medical records is not only necessary to complete the claim process, it is often required for medical management should you have a claim while traveling. Speak with your doctor before traveling to let them know that they may need to discuss your medical history with your insurer, should you have a medical emergency. Plan ahead. If your doctor has retired, request that a copy of your records be transferred to your new doctor or, if you don’t yet have a new doctor, ensure you have a copy of your own medical records.
Returning to Canada
Many individuals have their winter residence outside Canada. It is important to plan where you and/or your loved one will stay if you need to return to Canada for continued treatment in case of a medical emergency.