Real-Life Story | Sonya’s Travel Insurance Claim Experience

From tropical destinations like Jamaica to unique snowbird escapes, Canadian seniors are travelling more than ever. However, many are unaware that provincial healthcare offers minimal to no coverage outside their home province, and relying solely on credit card coverage is insufficient. Comprehensive Emergency Medical Insurance is essential, especially when facing serious or unexpected illness abroad.

Take Sonya*, a 72-year-old retiree, for example; she was relieved to have Emergency Medical coverage when a rare illness left her hospitalized during a vacation in Jamaica. Read on to learn more about Sonya’s experience.

Senior Suffers from Guillain-Barré Syndrome While Vacationing in Jamaica

Sonya was enjoying a dream vacation in Negril, Jamaica, when her health took a sudden turn for the worse. What started as mild fatigue in her legs quickly escalated; within a day, she couldn’t stand or walk, prompting a rush to the hospital, where her condition worsened.

Doctors diagnosed her with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare condition that can lead to body weakness and even temporary paralysis. Sonya soon struggled to swallow and speak, requiring hospitalization for 13 days under close care.

Given the seriousness of her illness, TuGo arranged for an air ambulance to safely transport Sonya back to her home province, allowing her to continue recovery closer to family support.

Travel Insurance Saved Sonya Over $500,000 in Medical Costs

Fortunately, Sonya and her husband never travel without TuGo’s Emergency Medical Insurance. This coverage ended up saving her over $500,000 in hospital, treatment, and air ambulance expenses, alleviating the financial burden during an already overwhelming and frightening time.

Want to learn about how pre-existing medical conditions affect travel insurance coverage? Read Everything You Need to Know about Travel Insurance and Pre-existing Medical Condition Stability.

Remember, “budget-friendly” travel insurance usually isn’t sufficient; you should always thoroughly understand what your emergency medical travel insurance covers. For senior travelers, Sonya’s story serves as a powerful reminder: medical emergencies abroad can happen unexpectedly, even on a dream vacation, and even when you’re healthy. Comprehensive travel insurance helps protect your health, your finances, and your peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your travels.

Safe travels,

Monique

* Based on actual claim with specific traveller details changed to protect privacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is travel insurance necessary for seniors?
Travel insurance is crucial for seniors as it covers unexpected medical emergencies that may arise while traveling, which might not be covered by provincial healthcare.
2. How can I choose the right travel insurance plan?
Consider coverage limits, pre-existing conditions, emergency assistance, and the reputation of the insurer when selecting a plan.
3. Does provincial healthcare cover me while traveling?
Typically, provincial healthcare offers minimal coverage outside your home province, often leaving gaps that travel insurance can fill.
4. What are pre-existing conditions in travel insurance?
These are medical conditions that existed before your policy was purchased. Some insurers may not cover related emergencies if you have such conditions.
5. How can I learn more about travel safety?
Explore resources that provide updates on travel safety tips, guides, and other essential information for travelers.
6. Are there specific travel insurance options for older adults?
Yes, many insurers offer tailored plans that specifically address the needs and healthcare considerations of senior travelers.
7. What should I do if I need medical attention while traveling?
Contact your travel insurance provider immediately for guidance and assistance in finding local medical facilities.

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