The Medical Link | Travel Medical Vs. Traditional Health Insurance For Moving To The USA

One of your first major considerations while moving to the US for work will be health insurance. Navigating the mostly privatized U.S. healthcare system without insurance might result in extremely costly medical expenses. Traditional Individual Health Insurance and Travel Medical Insurance are two popular choices for newcomers, however they have rather different functions. Making an informed choice for your wellbeing requires an understanding of the basic distinctions between these two.

Travel Health Insurance: The Quick Fix

Travel medical insurance is temporary coverage intended to keep you safe while traveling abroad, usually for a few weeks to as long as a year or two. International students, temporary employees, and expats frequently utilize it prior to obtaining permanent U.S. coverage.

Pros:

• Less expensive: Compared to typical plans, monthly premiums are frequently less expensive.
• You can purchase coverage for only the months you require with flexible terms.
• Emergency focus: Discusses unexpected sickness, accidents, and occasionally emergency evacuation.
• Available prior to establishing permanent status in the United States, there is no residency requirement.

Cons:

• Doesn’t comply with the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) criteria, which means you could not have all the protections you need.
• Restricted coverage scope: Preventive care and pre-existing conditions are typically not covered.
• Temporary by nature: Not the best option for long-term relocation, but best for brief visits.
• Limited provider networks: You might have to pay up front and file claims to get your money back.

The Long-Term Solution: Conventional Individual Health Insurance

Traditional individual health insurance is comprehensive, long-term coverage intended for permanent residents or those who want to remain in the United States. These plans are available directly from a private insurer or via the U.S. Health Insurance Marketplace, and they comply with the Affordable Care Act.

Pros:

•  All-inclusive coverage that covers maternity, prescription drugs, hospital stays, preventive care, and more. Pre-existing conditions are covered; there are no exclusions depending on your medical background.
• Greater access to providers: large in-network physicians and hospitals, along with negotiated prices.
• ACA protections: They provide essential coverage and cap your out-of-pocket maximums.

Cons: Costlier than travel medical insurance, with higher rates.

• Resident Requirement: usually calls for documentation of a valid U.S. address and resident status.
• Restrictions on enrollment: Unless you are eligible for a special enrollment period (such as when you move to the United States), you might have to wait until the open enrollment period.

Choosing the Best Option for You

The decision between these two solutions is solely based on your own demands and schedule.

Travel medical insurance can offer quick, reasonably priced coverage if you have just arrived and are in the interim before committing to a long-term position. Traditional Individual Health Insurance is a better option if you intend to stay for a long time and require complete benefits, including as coverage for routine treatment and pre-existing conditions. Before they can transition to a traditional policy, many newcomers utilize travel medical insurance as an interim solution.

Compliments of The Medical Link – a member of the EACCNY