Monday, November 11, 2024

Medevac Insurance for Expats in Mexico: Do You Need It?

Medevac insurance for expats in Mexico is a good alternative to a comprehensive international insurance policy. 

Why?

Because it’s available to pretty much anyone – and at a fraction of the cost. 

And, chances are, you don’t want to be caught in a situation where medical care isn’t available – whether you’re in the middle of nowhere or you just don’t have full coverage. 

If you have a medevac plan you are covered in the event of a medical emergency.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about medevac insurance for expats in Mexico.

What Is Medevac Insurance?

It’s important to understand that medevac insurance is its own product. 

Medevac coverage is available for those who find themselves hospitalized in another country and aren’t able to be moved to another facility for treatment…

Or who need to return to their passport country by ground or air. 

Medevac insurance for expats in Mexico is not a comprehensive international insurance policy. 

And, it only covers major emergencies.

Medevac insurance can also be additional coverage for those who already have a comprehensive insurance plan.

On the flipside, if you cannot afford a long-term insurance plan, cannot get insurance due to pre-existing conditions, OR if you are aged out of a comprehensive policy, medevac insurance can be a good option to ensure you’re covered in an emergency.  

It’s also worth noting that with a medevac plan, there is NO underwriting and pre-existing conditions are typically not an issue. 

What Does Medevac Insurance Cover?

There are different options of coverage when it comes to medevac insurance… 

    • Emergency medical ground transportation to the nearest facility that can medically treat you.
    • Air ambulance services. Typically these are equipped with medics and equipment.
    • Medevac. More complex coordination and transportation over longer distances that may require an air ambulance.
    • Medical repatriation. Transportation to your home country for treatment.
  • Organ procurement transportation.
  • Transport of mortal remains.

Again, medevac insurance for expats in Mexico is not a comprehensive insurance plan and does not cover anything except medical evacuation and transportation. 

Depending on the company you work with, there may be limitations to your policy such as…

  • How many transports can be done a year.
  • Distance guidelines from the transferring hospital to the receiving hospital.
  • The countries the insurer operates in. 

Always confirm with your broker about different options to cover your needs.

Do I Need Both Medevac and International Health Insurance in Mexico?

While medevac coverage isn’t necessary when you have an international health insurance plan, it does add a layer of protection.

Especially if your preference is to travel back to your passport country for further treatment and to be closer to friends and family.

How to Choose the Best Medevac Insurance for Your Needs as an Expat in Mexico

Medevac coverage is a niche market, and there aren’t a lot of options.

The benefit to this is that it makes it easier to shop around for the best policy.

Do your due diligence and read reviews online and ask your expat community for references.

Also, check with your doctor to see if they have a preferred company or agent.

What’s the Cost for Medevac Insurance for Expats in Mexico?

The cost of medevac insurance for expats in Mexico varies depending on the company and what your coverage needs are. 

However, a medevac insurance plan is significantly less than long-term international insurance coverage. 

To give you an idea, the annual cost is typically less than $1,000 USD for an individual. 

Determine if you need the coverage annually or short-term for travel. 

Many companies offer services while you’re traveling or while you’re living in a foreign country long-term. 

Will you be covering just yourself or will your spouse and/or dependents need to be included? 

Knowing this information BEFORE you shop around helps determine the cost of the plan.

Whatever you decide, be sure to discuss it with a reputable broker who can offer options and answer your questions.

 

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