Municipal Retiree Benefit Trust

Travel Insurance: What you need to know before you go

Wednesday, Dec 11, 2019

Are you planning on escaping the cold this winter? Enjoy healthy travels by ensuring you have the right travel coverage for your trip before you leave.

*As out-of-country coverage is not a benefit under your MRBT EHC plan, the purchase of individual travel coverage is highly recommended. *

Here are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to travel insurance:

  • Government health plans may not cover all emergency medical expenses once you leave your home province, and typically cover only a very limited portion once you leave the country.
  • Where you are going can affect your health care options and your coverage. Travelling to some locations can include a heightened risk that something unfortunate might occur (due to sanitation issues, political issues, weather, etc.). It’s important to note that if the government has issued a travel advisory for your destination, your travel insurance may not provide coverage. Always check travel advisories and your travel health policy before you go.
  • Your current health status. Many travel policies do not cover health issues related to pre-existing health conditions. Always check your policy and ensure you understand your coverage.
  • Travels don’t always go according to plan. Adding Trip Protection from Pacific Blue Cross can help you recover pre-paid expenses should you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason prior to departure, or should you experience an unexpected interruption or delay during your trip.

Need help choosing your travel insurance? We’re here to answer your questions and help you find the right coverage for your trip, including the best pre-existing condition coverage available. And, don’t forget, Pacific Blue Cross Members save 10% on travel plans. Visit pac.bluecross.ca/travel-insurance to learn more.

Please note: For Members residing in BC who have a Pacific Blue Cross EHC plan and purchase individual Pacific Blue Cross travel plans, the Pacific Blue Cross Travel Plan is the first payer. This means, in the event of a medical emergency outside BC (within Canada), your claim will be reimbursed under your Pacific Blue Cross Travel Plan first. This helps protect your EHC lifetime maximum.

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