Planning a Trip to the U.S.? Here’s Why You Need Travel Health Insurance

Travelling to the United States can be exciting, whether you are visiting family, studying or exploring the country’s landmarks. But amid all the planning, one crucial step often gets overlooked: buying travel insurance. For international visitors, especially from India, securing a policy before travelling to the U.S. is vital due to the high cost of medical care there.

This blog helps you understand why USA travel insurance is important, what it covers and how it can protect you during your trip.

Understanding Travel Health Insurance

Travel insurance is a type of insurance policy that offers financial protection during your trip. It can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, or delayed flights, depending on the policy’s terms and conditions.

When travelling to a country like the U.S., where healthcare expenses are significantly higher, this cover becomes more than just an option; it is a necessity.

Why Travel Health Insurance Is Essential for the U.S.

The United States does not have a government-funded healthcare system for international visitors. Tourists, students or business travellers are expected to pay their own medical expenses, which can be extremely high. Even a brief consultation can cost over 100 USD, while a hospital stay may run into thousands of dollars. That’s why having USA travel insurance is a practical necessity.

Here are some key reasons to buy travel health insurance before your trip:

1.    Mandatory Requirement for Certain Visa Categories

While tourist visas (B1/B2) do not legally require proof of insurance, visitors travelling under student (F1/J1) or exchange visitor visas are often mandated to carry health coverage that meets specific U.S. Department of State requirements. These typically include:  
●    Minimum medical coverage of USD 100,000 per accident or illness.  
●    Repatriation of remains coverage of at least USD 25,000.  
●    Medical evacuation coverage of at least USD 50,000 to the home country.  
●    Even if you are visiting on a tourist visa, having financial protection ensures peace of mind in case of emergencies.

2. Extremely High Healthcare Costs

Healthcare in the U.S. is among the most expensive in the world. A simple emergency room visit can cost between USD 500–1,000, while hospitalisation for a serious condition can exceed USD 10,000 per day. Travel insurance helps cover these costs for hospitalisation, consultations, diagnostics and medication, depending on your policy terms.

3. Cashless Medical Assistance in Network Hospitals

Many insurers partner with American healthcare networks to offer cashless treatment. This means you can access immediate care without making advance payments. It is particularly helpful if you fall ill suddenly and cannot arrange funds right away.

4. Coverage for Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

If you need to be transferred to another medical facility or flown back to India for continued treatment, travel insurance can cover evacuation expenses. Without insurance, air ambulance services within or out of the U.S. can cost USD 20,000–200,000, depending on the distance and medical support required.

What Does Travel Health Insurance for U.S. Visitors Typically Cover?

Coverage under USA travel insurance can vary depending on your insurer, but a comprehensive policy generally includes the following benefits tailored to U.S. requirements:  
●    Medical treatment: Covers the cost of medical care for illnesses or injuries sustained during your trip.  
●    Emergency medical evacuation: Pays for emergency air or ground transport to the nearest suitable medical facility or repatriation to India if required.  
●    Repatriation of mortal remains: Covers the cost of transporting the insured’s remains back to India.  
●    Personal accident cover: Offers compensation in the event of accidental death or permanent disability during your stay.  
●    Trip cancellation or curtailment: Reimburses non-refundable travel or accommodation expenses if your trip is cut short due to unforeseen reasons.  
●    Loss of baggage or passport: Provides compensation or assistance in replacing essential documents.

What is Not Covered Under Travel Health Insurance

While travel health insurance offers extensive protection, it’s equally important to understand its exclusions. Knowing what isn’t covered can help you avoid unpleasant surprises during a claim:

●    Pre-existing conditions: Usually not covered unless declared and accepted before travel.  
●    Non-urgent treatments: Routine check-ups, cosmetic procedures or elective surgeries are excluded.  
●    Adventure sports injuries: Activities like skiing or scuba diving are not covered without a specific add-on.  
●    Alcohol or drug-related incidents: Medical issues resulting from substance use are excluded  
●    Pregnancy or childbirth: Most travel policies exclude maternity-related expenses unless stated otherwise.

How to File a Claim

If you face a medical emergency during your trip, knowing the right steps to file a claim can help you get timely assistance and reimbursement:

●    Call the helpline: Contact your insurer before seeking treatment.  
●    Choose network hospitals: Using partner facilities helps avoid large out-of-pocket payments.  
●    Keep all documents: Save hospital bills, prescriptions and discharge summaries for claim verification.  
●    Submit claims: Upload scanned copies of bills and passport stamps via the insurer’s portal.

Remember to keep both digital and printed copies of your policy and assistance numbers for quick access.

Conclusion

Buying travel insurance before visiting the U.S. can help you stay prepared for medical or travel-related emergencies. With healthcare costs being high in the U.S., a policy provides not only financial security but also peace of mind throughout your journey.  
Whether you are travelling for leisure, education or business, having USA travel insurance ensures that uncertainties don’t disrupt your plans. Always read the policy wordings carefully and choose a cover that best aligns with your travel needs and duration.