Questions Page 3

Q. I am a Canadian citizen, I spend my winters in the United States, can I purchase an International Health Insurance Plan?

A. You may purchase an International Health plan, however, you will have to pay a yearly premium even though you only require coverage in the United States for approximately 6 months. Please remember that your International Plan will still be available to you while in Canada as you may use it at anytime if you wish to cross the border to seek care. Some use the International Plan as a supplement while back home in Canada.

Q. Does an International Medical Plan provide maternity coverage?

A. It depends on the plan you are choosing. Most comprehensive plans include maternity, however, most require that you satisfy a period of eligibility before the benefits will be paid.

Q. Can I chose the hospital of my choice for treatment?

A. If you are seeking coverage in the USA, you will be strongly encouraged to seek care from top rated physicians listed within a nationwide provider network. If you will be residing outside the United States, you may seek care at any hospital or center of excellence of your choice. Always call the Plan/Provider/Insurer Help Line first so as to pre-qualify for any inpatient surgery. Pre-qualification is often mandatory. Your claim may be denied if you do not pre-qualify for in-patient care.

Q. How do I make a claim?

A. Most international insurance providers will send a client pack, with Insurance Certificate, Claim Forms and Helpline Card, with a range of international contact numbers. Many international insurers now pre-authorize any in-patient treatment, meaning that you must contact their help lines before seeking treatment and incurring costs. Out-patient costs are usually handled by Claim Forms (i.e. you pay first). If in doubt, always call the help lines before seeking treatment and committing yourself to costs.

Q. How long does it take to process a Claim?

A. Normally it takes around ten working days from the date the insurer receives all of the necessary documents.

Q. Which conditions are excluded from International Insurance Plans?

A. Always read the exclusions section of a plan carefully. The following is a non exhaustive list of exclusions: war or civil war risks, drug abuse, self inflicted injury, HIV/AIDS, Infertility, normal pregnancy (unless option taken), cosmetic surgery, preventive treatment, kidney dialysis, mobility aids, experimental treatment, organ transplants (unless option taken), injuries arising from dangerous hobbies.

Almost all pre-conditions treated in the past two years will initially be excluded.