During an agent trip to Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas in October 2010 I experienced firsthand the importance of travel insurance.
A visit to the resort nurse, for what I thought was an allergic reaction to something, became a 2 week medical adventure.
A CT scan revealed that I had a very large brain aneurism which required immediate attention. Thankfully I had travel medical insurance. The insurance company handled all of the details concerning the air ambulance from Nassau to Miami, etc…
Here is a summary of my medical expenses:
Air ambulance $ 9,900.00 USD
Hospital Stay $ 120,000.00 USD (discounted to 84,000.00)
Surgeon $ 5,000.00 USD
Miscellaneous $ 3000.00 USD (hotel and meals for my husband, airfare for 2 to Canada etc…)
I pleased to say that I am doing very well. I am back to work fulltime with a new appreciation for family, friends, and life in general.
When speaking with clients about their upcoming vacation needs I often hear the following:
"I have insurance through work." or "I have coverage with my credit card".
Do not assume that your existing coverage will protect you should a medical emergency arise while you are outside of Canada.
Confirm with your provider that you have unlimited medical protection and that they will pay your medical expenses upfront. Ask for their toll free emergency number and your policy number.
If you are uncertain if you have adequate protection I can "top up" your existing coverage to give you peace of mind.
Travel Insurance should be considered part of you vacation planning, not an option inclusion.
