Travel outside the U.S.
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare typically provides very limited coverage for medical services outside the United States. In most cases, Medicare will not cover healthcare services received while traveling abroad, with rare emergency exceptions.
- Medicare generally does NOT cover medical services outside the U.S.
- Rare emergency situations may have limited coverage in specific circumstances
- Medicare beneficiaries should consider supplemental travel insurance
- Some Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans offer limited foreign travel emergency coverage
- Travelers should understand their coverage limitations before international trips
- All Medicare beneficiaries
- Original Medicare (Part A and Part B)
- Some Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans may offer additional travel benefits
- No standard Medicare coverage for routine international medical services
- Potential out-of-pocket costs for any medical treatment abroad
- Supplemental travel insurance can range from $50-$200 depending on trip duration and coverage
- Coverage is extremely limited outside U.S. territories
- No routine medical services covered internationally
- Emergency coverage is restricted to very specific scenarios
- Beneficiaries responsible for 100% of most international medical expenses
- Contact your specific Medicare plan administrator about international coverage
- Purchase comprehensive travel health insurance before international trips
- Review your Medicare Supplement plan for potential travel emergency provisions
- Keep copies of medical records and receipts for potential reimbursement
Last updated: 6/15/2025
Quick Information
- Provider
- Medicare
- Last Updated
- 6/15/2025
- Topics
- Medicare international travelMedicare overseas medical coverageMedicare foreign emergency careMedicare travel insuranceMedicare abroad medical expenses
Related Coverage Topics
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