SM Blog: » see older posts
- Sunday March 11, 2012
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The Winnipeg Art Gallery Presents...
American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell March 2, 2012 to May 20, 2012 - » Read More
- Sunday March 11, 2012
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National Exposure
In addition to speaking on current benefit trends at the HRPA in Toronto last month, Kevin and I were both published in National industry magazines... - » Read More
- Thursday March 1, 2012
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Jets Make a Big Splash at DU Ministers Dinner
Shane Hnidy (TSN - Retired Boston Bruin), Dustin Byfuglien and Zach Bogosian support Ducks Unlimited and the Oak Hammock March Interpretive Centre - » Read More
SM Benefits & Pensions:
Travel Tips/Reminders
Posted by: Angela Jorowski
On this first day of winter 2010, it is a good time to take note of a few helpful reminders for those planning trips outside of Canada in the coming months.
It is important to carry your insurance benefits card at all times while travelling, as this is the best way your assistance company can confirm your coverage and attempt to guarantee payment to the medical facility where your treatment is being provided.
In the event of a medical emergency, your assistance company should be contacted as soon as reasonably possible, ideally prior to seeking or receiving medical treatment. Your assistance company will direct you to the nearest medical facility where adequate treatment is available, which allows you to receive immediate and appropriate care wherever you may be.
An out-of-country medical emergency includes an accidental injury or an illness not previously diagnosed or treated in Canada. Treatment required for any medical condition previously diagnosed in Canada will be excluded. However, coverage may be available for an unforeseen complication of an existing, pre-diagnosed condition that was completely stable at the time of departure from Canada.
Recently, some popular travel destinations for Canadians such as Cuba, imposed rules requiring all visitors to prove they have out-of-country travel health insurance when arriving at the country’s borders. Without adequate proof (i.e. a specific letter from your insurer), travelers are required to purchase insurance for the duration of their stay. If you are planning a trip to a destination that requires proof, you will need to obtain a special letter from your insurance company - your benefits card will not be enough.
Does my destination require proof?
Please visit these web sites to confirm if your travel destination requires proof of out-of-country travel health insurance;
- Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (www.voyage.gc.ca)
- Transport Canada (www.tc.gc.ca)
Pre-trip reminders:
- Before you travel, have a look at these informative travelers' websites to ensure you are prepared and know what to expect: You can visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (www.voyage.gc.ca), Transport Canada (www.tc.gc.ca), the Canadian Automobile Association (www.caa.ca), and the Travel Health Insurance Association (www.thiaonline.com) for information on travel advisories, local currency/exchange rates, visa requirements, vaccinations, inoculations, health risks, etc.
- Take note of the toll-free numbers for your assistance company and pack your travel insurance card with your provincial health card and passport.
- Ensure you have an ample supply of all necessary medications and ensure that each is carried in its original packaging.
Be prepared, have fun and enjoy every minute of your vacations in 2011!
Angela Jorowski worked for an international travel health provider for 6 years and is a past executive board member for the Travel Health Insurance Association.