Most US and Canadian healthcare plans do not provide coverage for overseas travelers. Any medical treatment you receive while on vacation or living in Mexico including doctor visits, hospital stays, medication and emergency transportation are the responsibility of the traveler, and in most cases a patient must pay in full (and in cash) prior to receiving service.

When traveling to Mexico, you should not assume that your health insurance policy will cover you. Before you leave, you should ask your provider a) if your policy covers you if you travel to Mexico and b) if it covers emergency expenses like a hospital stay and/or medical evacuation.

• If Your Healthcare Plan Covers You: If your policy does provide coverage, you should carry both your insurance policy identity card as proof of your insurance and a claim form.

• If Your Healthcare Plan Does NOT Cover You: If your travel to Mexico is not covered by your policy, it’s a good idea to purchase a short-term policy that does. The easiest way is to buy travel insurance is through your airline when booking your flight. However, many travel agents and private companies also offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services and medical evacuation.

Before you purchase insurance, you should understand the difference between Trip Insurance and Travel Medical Insurance:

• Trip Insurance: Trip Insurance (sometimes called Trip Cancelation Insurance) insures your financial investment in your trip and typically covers unexpected interruptions in your travel plans and lost, stolen or damaged luggage.

• Travel Medical Insurance: Travel Medical Insurance, on the other hand, covers the cost of medical treatment caused by accidents, injuries and hospital visits, as well as 24-hour travel and emergency assistance. Some short-term policies include both.

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In case of emergency or if you need to contact your Consulate or Embassy, view the Emergency Services & Police Phone Numbers for the Jaltemba Bay area.