Why is medical insurance essential before international travel? Find out the reasons..

If you are traveling abroad, purchasing travel medical insurance is just as essential as having a passport and visa. Since you are in an unfamiliar environment, this insurance acts as a protective shield during emergencies. It safeguards you against significant financial loss and distress should a medical emergency arise while you are overseas. There are several reasons to opt for medical insurance; let us explore them.

**Exorbitant Medical Costs Abroad**
Healthcare services abroad—particularly in regions like the USA, Europe, and Canada—are extremely expensive. Costs ranging from a routine doctor's visit to hospitalization or surgery can run into lakhs of rupees. Medical insurance prevents the entire financial burden from falling on you; the insurance company covers these expenses.

**Medical Emergencies**
You may require immediate medical attention if your health suddenly deteriorates, or if you suffer a heart attack or the onset of an illness during your trip. An insurance policy provides the facility of cashless treatment at network hospitals.

**Cashless Treatment**
Arranging funds can be difficult when you are abroad, dealing with an unfamiliar currency and new surroundings. With an insurance policy, you can receive treatment at network hospitals without paying cash upfront (cashless facility).

**Medical Evacuation**
In the event of an accident or serious illness, transferring you to a nearby city, a major hospital, or back to your home country (repatriation) for better treatment can be very costly. Travel insurance covers the expenses associated with air ambulances and medical evacuation.

**Accident Cover**
In the event of a road accident or other mishap abroad, financial compensation is provided to the insured individual or their family for emergency treatment, disability, or death.

Mandatory Visa Requirement
Travel medical insurance is legally mandatory for entry into Schengen countries—a group of 29 European nations with no border controls or passport checks at internal borders—such as France, Germany, and Italy. Without it, your visa application could be rejected.

Coverage for Other Travel-Related Issues
Most travel insurance policies cover various risks beyond just medical emergencies. This includes the loss of passports or valuables, flight cancellations or delays, and the loss or delayed arrival of checked-in baggage.

When purchasing travel insurance, carefully review the coverage details regarding the duration of your trip, the destination country, any pre-existing medical conditions, and coverage for adventure sports if you plan to participate in them.

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