This article can be found at http://www.rbcroyalbank.com/travelinsurance/need-travel-insurance.html
Consider these common myths and see why it’s important to make sure
your family is protected every time you travel.
Myth #1: Travel insurance isn’t
necessary; I will take my chances.
Any Canadian travelling abroad or within Canada should consider travel
insurance because your government health insurance plan (GHIP) typically covers
only a limited portion of your medical expenses once you leave the country and
your province.
Myth #2: My employee health plan
and credit card provides me with all the coverage I need.
Many Canadians don’t realize the limitations of this coverage. For
instance, credit cards often provide coverage for a limited number of days or
limit the amount you can claim. Employment benefits may not cover all medical
emergencies and have limited travel benefits.
Myth #3: It’s more economical to
buy insurance for each trip rather than purchasing an annual plan.
Canadians who travel frequently should consider purchasing a multi-trip
annual plan. It offers a more convenient and economical way to purchase
coverage for a full year without having to worry about it every time you
travel.
Myth #4: As long as I’m covered,
my family is protected too.
Purchase travel insurance that will cover your entire family for the
duration of your trip. Also, ask about family pricing. Family pricing is
available under some travel insurance plans or packages.
Myth #5: Carrying my insurance
card or any documents describing my coverage is sufficient.
In addition to carrying the correct documents, it’s important to have a
good emergency medical network on your side. If you were to experience a
medical emergency, it’s important that you have instant access to a 24-hour
emergency support network that you can call from anywhere in the world, and
with representatives who are multilingual.
Did you know?
A four-day stay in a U.S. hospital for an appendectomy could cost
$39,400 (USD), with only $1,600 (CAD) covered by your GHIP.(1) A one-day stay
in a U.S. hospital for a broken arm and wrist could cost $32,600 (USD), with
only $400 (CAD) covered by your GHIP.(1) With Travel HealthProtector®
insurance, you’ll have valuable financial protection for these types of
emergency medical expenses.