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Health insurance in the United States, unlike many countries, is characterized by its diversity. There are dozens of Blue Cross/Blue Shield plans, hundreds of commercial insurers, and a multiplicity of managed care plans involving HMO's, IPA's and PPG's. For some, there is Medicaid, and for those over 65, there is Medicare. All these various types of plans have different benefits, costs, deductibles, exclusions, and restrictions. Before you travel, check your existing health policy to see what it pays for. It will probable reimburse you for 80% to 100% of the cost of emergency medical care abroad, excluding any deductible or co-payment. For non-emergency care overseas, you may be covered, but you will probably have to call your insurance company or HMO in the United States for authorization or treatment. Check with your health plan about this before you leave home. Failure to get authorization may mean denial of reimbursement if you late file a claim. For more on this topic, click here for the complete International Travel HealthGuide Chapter 16: Travel Insurance
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