A Must-Read for Snowbirds and Retirees Who Love to Explore

Whether you’re heading to Florida for the winter or planning an overseas adventure, one question always pops up: “Will Medicare still cover me if I’m away from home?” The answer: It depends on where you go and what type of plan you have.

Inside the U.S.: You’re Covered (Mostly)

If you have Original Medicare (Parts A & B), you can use it anywhere in the U.S. and its territories — including Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and American Samoa.You can see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare. If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, it travels with you — no network limits. But Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are usually network-based. If you’re out of your plan’s service area, your coverage may be limited or you might pay out of pocket (unless it’s an emergency).

Outside the U.S.: You’re Mostly on Your Own

Medicare doesn’t usually cover care outside the U.S., except in a few rare cases — like when you’re traveling between states and the nearest hospital happens to be across the border (think: Canada or Mexico). However, some Supplement plans (like Plan G and Plan F) include limited foreign travel emergency coverage — usually up to 80% after a deductible.

Tip:

If you’re a frequent traveler, look for a Supplement plan with foreign travel emergency coverage or consider a short-term travel medical plan before heading abroad.

Doreen Marino | 65+ Insurance Solutions | www.dmarinomedicare.com