By Kevin Beese
Fact Sheet Health Insurance for Travel in Australia & New Zealand
Travel health insurance could be necessary for travelers to Australia and New Zealand. While the countries have government-run health systems, those systems do not cover visitors unless they are from countries that have reciprocal agreements with Australia and New Zealand. The U.S. State Department urges Americans to check with their insurance company regarding coverage while in Australia and New Zealand.
Function
Travel health insurance provides overseas guests with coverage in the event of a medical emergency. It also can cover some of your costs for a doctor's visit and pharmaceuticals.
Types
Overseas Visitors Health Coverage provides hospital and medical coverage. But policies normally impose a one-year waiting period before hospitals cover preexisting conditions. Travel health insurance can be purchased to cover medical, hospital and prescription costs.
Time Frame
Many groups encourage their overseas travelers to purchase health insurance before beginning their travels.
Features
Overseas health coverage provides coverage to travelers or temporary residents who are working in Australia but not entitled to Australian Medicare benefits. Many policies have no waiting periods for hospital and medical claims.
Identification
Most policies give you a choice of extras and hospital coverage or hospital coverage only. Coverage is available for dependent children younger than 25 years old.
Effects
Health insurance for travelers in Australia and New Zealand allows individuals and families access to health services when they need them. It also allows them to choose their doctor, hospital and treatment.
Resources
About the Author:
Kevin Beese has more than 25 years of experience writing and editing copy for both daily and community newspapers. He has been honored by the Associated Press, Illinois Press Association and the Northern Illinois Newspaper Association. His work has appeared in numerous publications including the "Chicago Tribune."
Photo Credits:
Flickr.com
