Visitor medical insurance for Parents visiting family in the US

There are mainly two types of short term travel insurance, ie – trip cancellation insurance (where the focus is on insuring the expenses related to the trip) and travel medical insurance (where the focus is on insuring the health of the traveler).

For most parents visiting the US, the focus will be on insuring the health of the traveling parent, ie – travel medical insurance. Within travel medical insurance, the specific type of travel insurance will depend on factors such as the duration of travel in the U.S and any pre- existing conditions of the traveler.

There are broadly two types of travel medical insurance options –

1. Comprehensive travel insurance
2. Fixed benefits travel insurance.

The most extensive cover is the comprehensive visitor health insurance which has full flexibility in coverage up to the policy medical maximum when compared to the fixed benefits plan (where there are clearly defined limits on different medical expense coverage). It is important to carefully check the details before buying the visitors travel insurance if it meets all the requirements for their stay in the US.

Yes, you can purchase one policy for both parents, however it is advisable to have two separate insurance plans as that would be more flexible in case of any changes required after the inception date of the policy to any one persons coverage (like the need to travel back earlier, or to extend the stay more than the other traveler).

The price will remain unchanged irrespective of whether you buy one travel insurance plans for both parents, or two separate insurance plans for each parent.

It is recommended to buy higher medical maximum coverage ($250,000 to $500,00), however many insurance plans become restrictive for travelers over the age of 70 years. For older travellers above 70 years, the policy maximum is often limited to $50,000.

Yes, the application process can be completed and payment can be made by a child on behalf of one’s parents.

The sponsor or the guarantor who has signed the documents for their travel will be liable for any unpaid medical bills of the parents. A legal expert's advice will be more helpful.

The best US visitors insurance with parents is listed here :

1. The INF Elite plans are designed for travelers who need coverage for full pre-existing medical conditions up to age 99 years. INF Elite plans are comprehensive plans available for people traveling to the US and provide flexible coverage. Minimum Purchase of 90 days is required on the plans.
2. Safe Travels USA Comprehensive offers coverage for acute on set of pre-existing conditions up to 89 years. For persons under 70 covers medical treatment to policy maximum (cardiac-related treatment up to $25,000). For persons above 70 Acute Onset benefits is reduced to a maximum of $35,000 (cardiac-related treatment up to $15,000).
3. Atlas America Insurance is a comprehensive visitor insurance for acute on set of pre-existing conditions that covers Non-US citizens and Non-US residents while visiting the US up to age 79 years.
   The plan provides acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing conditions coverage..
4. Patriot America plus is Comprehensive travel insurance covers acute on set of pre-existing conditions up to chosen maximum limit aged up to 70 years. This plan is available for Non US citizens travelling to the USA and US citizens and Non US citizens living abroad can buy this plan for visiting the US for short while. Plan is suitable for Green Card holders as long as they reside outside the US.
5. Visitors Protect is Comprehensive visitor medical insurance offers pre-existing conditions up to age 99 years. Minimum Purchase of 90 days is required on the plan. It is an affordable plan for visitors visiting the US.
6. Safe Travels USA is a cheap travel medical insurance plan that covers sudden, unexpected recurrence of a Pre-existing Condition for Non-US Citizens and Non-US Residents while visiting the USA up to 89 years.

The cost of international health insurance for parents can depend on various factors. The comprehensiveness of the coverage chosen greatly affects the cost. Basic plans with limited coverage will be cheaper, while more comprehensive plans offering extensive coverage for medical treatment, emergency evacuation, and other services will be more expensive. Age of the travellers matters, generally older individuals tend to have higher insurance premiums due to a higher risk of health issues. Younger parents typically pay lower premiums.

International parents travel insurance cost varies for different health condition like pre-existing medical conditions and some insurance companies may charge higher premiums or impose exclusions or waiting periods for pre-existing conditions. The countries or regions where parents and senior citizens will be covered can affect the cost of insurance. Coverage in countries with high healthcare costs or limited medical facilities may result in higher premiums. Short-term plans for trips or stays abroad will have different pricing structures compared to long-term plans.

Plans with higher deductibles and copayments typically have lower premiums but may require parents to pay more out of pocket for medical expenses. Additional features such as coverage for dental care, and wellness benefits may increase the overall cost of insurance for parents to USA. So it is important to compare parents travel insurance quotes from multiple providers on American Visitors Insurance to find the best cost of travel insurance from India to USA.

If parents experience a medical emergency while in USA, it can be a stressful and potentially life-threatening situation. Remain as calm as possible and try to assess the situation objectively. Panic can make it more challenging to make rational decisions. If parents requires urgent medical care, call the local emergency services number 911 in the United States or go directly to the nearest hospital or medical facility. Do not delay seeking medical help. If parents have medical travel insurance, contact the insurance provider as soon as possible to inform them of the situation.

They can provide assistance, guidance, and authorization for medical treatment, as well as coordinate any necessary arrangements, such as emergency medical evacuation. Follow the instructions and recommendations of medical professionals treating you. Be honest about the medical history, symptoms, and any medications. If parents have pre-existing conditions, inform the medical staff. Keep copies of all medical records, test results, prescriptions, and receipts for medical expenses incurred abroad.

These documents may be required when filing a claim with the travel insurance provider. After receiving initial medical treatment, follow up with healthcare providers as needed for ongoing care and monitoring. Be proactive in managing the recovery and adhering to any prescribed medications or treatment plans. It's important to be prepared for medical emergencies while traveling abroad by having appropriate travel insurance for parents to USA, understanding how to access emergency services in the destination country, and knowing how to communicate effectively in case of an emergency. Taking proactive measures can help ensure a prompt and effective response in the event of a medical emergency while in USA.