Medical Insurance

[Waka]

Here's a topic that I haven't seen raised and it relates to medical insurance. Certainly from the UK we have (I think) a reciprocal agreement with other EU countries to receive medical care (but not private care).
Myself I have free medical cover with my bank as long as I use my bank card in the country where medical help is provided, having said that I haven't been in touch with them yet to explain where and what I'm doing.

What, if any medical insurance do other pilgrims have?

 

[SYates]

I am also from Europe, so I am covered by the agreement (EHIC Card) but it might be a good idea to take an insurance out that cover repatriation. My husband used to have a travel insurance from Boots he just tells me and I think the UK post office also offers one. Buen Camino! SY

 

[SabsP]

I'm also from Europe and covered by EHIC but on my last two walks abroad I took a temporary insurance with my local insurance company. I already have my car- house and personal insurance there. So I got a discount. I could choose to only take this particular insurance for the days I was abroad and it included worst case scenarios like repatriation ( even if a case of death ). It set me back 75 € for three weeks, a small fee to put my mind to rest ( and not to worry about possible expenses for my family ).

 

[Waka]

SYates & SabineP. Just been checking with my bank, so as well as being covered with my EHIC I'm also covered through my bank, which includes repatriation (hope it doesn't come to that) at no extra cost.
Another thing off my list of things to do before I take the first step out of SJPdP.

 

[SabsP]

Yeak Waka! Good for you! Must be because British Pound is so strong compared to our weak Euro ;-)

 

[Waka]

Yeak Waka! Good for you! Must be because British Pound is so strong compared to our weak Euro ;-)

Yes, for a change the Euro is in our favour, greater spending power for the end of the day beer.

 

[SabsP]

Yes, for a change the Euro is in our favour, greater spending power for the end of the day beer.

And finally some decent beer ...

 

[Al the optimist]

And finally some decent beer ...

Ouch! English beer is OK! Personally I prefer cider and miss it being available for most of the Camino. I have an insurance that tops up my EHIC insurance (EHICPLus by Mapfre) and so works out cheaper than traditional offerings. £49.70 for an annual multi-trip for up to 60 days each time. This is available for under 79 year olds. (As Falcon would say - no financial connection)

 

[annakappa]

We are European citizens (Brit and Dutch), but have lived all around the world and the last time we lived in Europe (Switzerland) was over 18 years ago. We take out a private travel insurance from our country of residence ( Costa Rica).
We leave next week and, bummer, I've just broken my wrist, which means that the cast will have to be removed around 14th June, when I guess we will still be walking the Portuguese. Considering I'm leaving with a pre- condition, I'm sure I will have to pay for the removal of the cast and the X-ray! ( had I been a certain class of N.American, I would have sued the "Muni" for the ridiculous pavement improvement they thought was clever, but turned out a nasty hazard)!
Sorry to offend any N.Americans reading this, but I've received two suggestions that I sue!

 

[Jan_D]

Not sure if you have your EHIC card already, if not you can apply online, it'll be delivered in a few days! http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Pages/about-the-ehic.aspx

 

[Waka]

Not sure if you have your EHIC card already, if not you can apply online, it'll be delivered in a few days! http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Pages/about-the-ehic.aspx

Jan I've had mine for quite a few years, actually had to renew a few years ago., but thanks for the link.

 

[Jan_D]

Thanks, that reminds me I actually need to renew mine asap!

 

[november_moon]

My regular medical insurance doesn't cover me out of the country, so I always buy a travel medical policy for international trips. Fingers crossed, never had to use it yet, but I will always buy coverage. I use insuremytrip.com to shop for policies.

 

[Annie G]

We are European citizens (Brit and Dutch), but have lived all around the world and the last time we lived in Europe (Switzerland) was over 18 years ago. We take out a private travel insurance from our country of residence ( Costa Rica).
We leave next week and, bummer, I've just broken my wrist, which means that the cast will have to be removed around 14th June, when I guess we will still be walking the Portuguese. Considering I'm leaving with a pre- condition, I'm sure I will have to pay for the removal of the cast and the X-ray! ( had I been a certain class of N.American, I would have sued the "Muni" for the ridiculous pavement improvement they thought was clever, but turned out a nasty hazard)!
Sorry to offend any N.Americans reading this, but I've received two suggestions that I sue!

None taken. I suspect you received that advice because many Americans have inadequate or no medical insurance. Also many have no benefits to cover time off work due to illness or injury. All our money goes to defense and the famous 1%.

 

[Waka]

We are European citizens (Brit and Dutch), but have lived all around the world and the last time we lived in Europe (Switzerland) was over 18 years ago. We take out a private travel insurance from our country of residence ( Costa Rica).
We leave next week and, bummer, I've just broken my wrist, which means that the cast will have to be removed around 14th June, when I guess we will still be walking the Portuguese. Considering I'm leaving with a pre- condition, I'm sure I will have to pay for the removal of the cast and the X-ray! ( had I been a certain class of N.American, I would have sued the "Muni" for the ridiculous pavement improvement they thought was clever, but turned out a nasty hazard)!
Sorry to offend any N.Americans reading this, but I've received two suggestions that I sue!

Really sorry to hear about your wrist, I hope it's not too uncomfortable while you're on the camino.

 

[PEI_Heather]

I'm from Canada and always get travel insurance for when I leave my country--even if I was to take a day trip to the USA. Especially even if I was to take a day trip to the USA (where medical expenses are beyond belief). My healthcare is only covered in Canada, not elsewhere. I figure out how long I will be away and pay for each day (but in a bundle payment).

 

[amorfati1]

We are European citizens (Brit and Dutch), but have lived all around the world and the last time we lived in Europe (Switzerland) was over 18 years ago. We take out a private travel insurance from our country of residence ( Costa Rica).
We leave next week and, bummer, I've just broken my wrist, which means that the cast will have to be removed around 14th June, when I guess we will still be walking the Portuguese. Considering I'm leaving with a pre- condition, I'm sure I will have to pay for the removal of the cast and the X-ray! ( had I been a certain class of N.American, I would have sued the "Muni" for the ridiculous pavement improvement they thought was clever, but turned out a nasty hazard)!
Sorry to offend any N.Americans reading this, but I've received two suggestions that I sue!

so sorry to hear about the wrist... - wishing you well-mending and return of full-flexibility ...

 

[Al the optimist]

Sorry to hear about the wrist. How you have no more set backs and it doesn't prevent you lifting a glass or two.

 

[camino07]

Sorry about your wrist,Annakappa. Might be better to keep the cast on until you get home as it will continue to protect your arm. If it's not causing trouble of course.
Sorry! retired nurse can't help it!!

 

[NualaOC]

Hi Waka,

The EHIC card entitles you to the same level of health care as a Spanish citizen. This doesn't necessarily mean free health care. EHIC also doesn't cover repatriation costs, or any of the other benefits provided by a travel insurance policy (e.g. the cost of cancelling/curtailing your trip because of illness or bereavement).

I suggest that you ask your bank for a copy of the travel policy (or a summary of cover). All policies have a limit on the maximum duration of a trip. In some cases, the limit is as low as 30 days. This may not be sufficient for your Camino - in which case, you'll need to buy a single trip policy. Your bank may be able to arrange this for you if needed. If not, there are lots of options online - e.g. tesco, M&S, Allianz.

Hope this helps,

Nuala

 

[AnnieY]

Here's a topic that I haven't seen raised and it relates to medical insurance. Certainly from the UK we have (I think) a reciprocal agreement with other EU countries to receive medical care (but not private care).
Myself I have free medical cover with my bank as long as I use my bank card in the country where medical help is provided, having said that I haven't been in touch with them yet to explain where and what I'm doing.

What, if any medical insurance do other pilgrims have?

I too am from the UK , and walked the Camino last year, got my EHIC (not really adequate) but did take additional insurance for a pre-existing condition with PJH in Sussex adventure/sports insurance specialists - very reasonable and worth the peace of mind - approximately £90 for 5 weeks

 

[Waka]

Hi Waka,

The EHIC card entitles you to the same level of health care as a Spanish citizen. This doesn't necessarily mean free health care. EHIC also doesn't cover repatriation costs, or any of the other benefits provided by a travel insurance policy (e.g. the cost of cancelling/curtailing your trip because of illness or bereavement).

I suggest that you ask your bank for a copy of the travel policy (or a summary of cover). All policies have a limit on the maximum duration of a trip. In some cases, the limit is as low as 30 days. This may not be sufficient for your Camino - in which case, you'll need to buy a single trip policy. Your bank may be able to arrange this for you if needed. If not, there are lots of options online - e.g. tesco, M&S, Allianz.

Hope this helps,

Nuala

Thanks Nuala

I have a copy of my bank travel insurance and luckily it's for 90 days, even I should be able to complete the camino in that time, also cancelling, loss of luggage and as for curtailing the trip, I don't have a return ticket because I don't know how long it will take, I'll think of how I'm going to get home when I arrive in Santiago.

 

[John Finn]

I'm also a EU citizen and so can benefit from the EHIC scheme. However, I take out annual travel insurance to cover all worldwide travel and it covers stuff like repatriation that the basic EHIC doesn't. So far, touch wood, I have never had a need to make a claim. The wisdom of having such insurance was brought home to me on my Camino a few weeks ago when a cyclist who had just passed me going down to Zubiri fell and broke his leg on a slippery bare rock surface. He had to be helicoptered out. Everyone should have travel insurance.

 

[Coleen Clark]

Here's a topic that I haven't seen raised and it relates to medical insurance. Certainly from the UK we have (I think) a reciprocal agreement with other EU countries to receive medical care (but not private care).
Myself I have free medical cover with my bank as long as I use my bank card in the country where medical help is provided, having said that I haven't been in touch with them yet to explain where and what I'm doing.

What, if any medical insurance do other pilgrims have?

Wonderful information for all you lovely Brits, but what about Americans? Where do I go to get the medical insurance I will need to go on my Camino? Will it cost more for us since our medical here in the States is so high anyway? Or should I get the med card, get sick in Spain, and maybe get a face lift/tummy tuck too while I'm there since it's so cheap?

 

[naplesdon]

There are many travel insurance companies in the US who can provide you with different levels of coverage as well as medical evacuation coverage. The cost is not exorbitant, I will not recommend one or the other, just make sure to read the terms and talk to someone at the company you choose before signing up.

 

[John Finn]

Wonderful information for all you lovely Brits, but what about Americans? Where do I go to get the medical insurance I will need to go on my Camino? Will it cost more for us since our medical here in the States is so high anyway? Or should I get the med card, get sick in Spain, and maybe get a face lift/tummy tuck too while I'm there since it's so cheap?

Just google it! For example: http://www.travelexinsurance.com/?g...nCfV0MwfxtWfQ-u38IUasBCANuNHwRz4cMaAnHO8P8HAQ

 

[Al the optimist]

The cyclists descending into Zubiri seemed to be taking their life into their hands when I have been there. Dangerous enough on foot.

 

[paul.ferris]

I'm from Canada and always get travel insurance for when I leave my country--even if I was to take a day trip to the USA. Especially even if I was to take a day trip to the USA (where medical expenses are beyond belief). My healthcare is only covered in Canada, not elsewhere. I get figure out how long I will be away and pay for each day (but in a bundle payment).

The Ontario version of Canadian health care does cover limited emergency health expenses while traveling. They still recommend additional coverage. I get a very good rate through my credit card plan.

 

[t2andreo]

I am a US resident. However, I am fortunate to have insurance coverage that is effective overseas (Blue Cross - Blue Shield). If you have it, check their website for "foreign" or "overseas" coverage.

In addition, I usually buy the insurance coverage offered by the airline I fly to and from Europe on (United). It is very inexpensive and not only covers the airfare issues, like trip interruption, but also covers me for medical costs (as a secondary plan to my primary insurance cover) and most importantly, provides for medical air evacuation back to my home hospital if something very nasty happens. I recall that for a month, it costs just under USD 100.

Fortunately hiking is not considered a "high-risk" pastime. However, mountain biking, rick climbing and kayaking are considered hazards that are not insured against. But, for those of us who are simply walking a Camino, this is a cost-effective way to cover yourself, at least IMHO.

I hope this helps.

 

[mspath]

Consider this Camino Card insurance which according to Mundicamino is open to any pilgrim whatever their nationality. For more info click here.

 

[ricitosdeplata]

Just looked into Camino Card and the longest time it covers is 30 days. I'll be in Spain 52 days, though. It might be worth it for 30 days of the 10% discounts you get in all kinds of establishments.

 

[mspath]

You might consider the possibility of 2 sequential cards to cover your time period.

 

[pudgypilgrim]

I am fortunate to have insurance coverage that is effective overseas (Blue Cross - Blue Shield). If you have it, check their website for "foreign" or "overseas" coverage.

However, you need to watch out very, very carefully for what will be considered "out of network" with the recent changes in the health care laws. I used to have the exact same coverage overseas as I do here, but now it's all under "out of network" or in other words, I pay a huge unaffordable amount for the things they do cover, which is not anywhere near as much as it was, so for me, that's not really a viable option anymore. Of course, all this varies by state and which insurer you have. I know this is true for most BCBSFL polices.

Another place to shop for travel policies in the US is squaremouth.com. Haven't used them myself, but they seem to get recommended here a lot.

 

[t2andreo]

However, you need to watch out very, very carefully for what will be considered "out of network" with the recent changes in the health care laws. I used to have the exact same coverage overseas as I do here, but now it's all under "out of network" or in other words, I pay a huge unaffordable amount for the things they do cover, which is not anywhere near as much as it was, so for me, that's not really a viable option anymore. Of course, all this varies by state and which insurer you have. I know this is true for most BCBSFL polices.

Another place to shop for travel policies in the US is squaremouth.com. Haven't used them myself, but they seem to get recommended here a lot.

Oh, I AM very careful. The Blue Cross - Blue Shield site has a link for "Overseas Coverage" and includes a medical provider search engine, by country then by city. So, for example, I can find an English speaking doctor at Santiago de Compostela with ease. FYI, most all specialities at Santiago are offered at the University Hospital just south of the old historic center and Alameda Park. This site also indicates whether the provider or facility is a "preferred provider." That means they pay more, and sometimes means the hospital will file the insurance claim directly.

I hope this helps.

 

[jpflavin1]

I had BCBS PPO and they covered everything when I was hospitalized in France - 2010. This year I turned 65 and had to go on Medicare. I bought a BCBS plan F policy. This is supposed to cover me for overseas travel. Hope I never have to find out. In the past I have requested and received a cover letter from BCBS when I travel. It has a worldwide number that connects to an exchange with an appropriate language consultant. It worked well in 2010.

Ultreya,
Joe

 

[pudgypilgrim]

Hi, Tom. Yes, what you are describing is just the kind of coverage I used to have, but whereas before the change in law there wasn't such a stress on in-network vs out-of-network, that has changed radically for many people now. Just ask anyone in my area who has had to go to the local hospital (in-network since it's the only one) via the out-of-network Fire Rescue ambulance and gotten hit with a bill for upwards of a thousand bucks for the ride, even though it's "covered". So I don't really care what they tell me about being covered out of the country--it's just a sham now, and I do have a BCBS PPO plan. I'm glad your situation is different. I was just posting to warn others that you can't just see "covered" and assume that has any validity now, at least not if you have BCBS, and I doubt that other insurance companies aren't also taking advantage of this loophole in the new law.

 

[PEI_Heather]

We are European citizens (Brit and Dutch), but have lived all around the world and the last time we lived in Europe (Switzerland) was over 18 years ago. We take out a private travel insurance from our country of residence ( Costa Rica).
We leave next week and, bummer, I've just broken my wrist, which means that the cast will have to be removed around 14th June, when I guess we will still be walking the Portuguese. Considering I'm leaving with a pre- condition, I'm sure I will have to pay for the removal of the cast and the X-ray! ( had I been a certain class of N.American, I would have sued the "Muni" for the ridiculous pavement improvement they thought was clever, but turned out a nasty hazard)!
Sorry to offend any N.Americans reading this, but I've received two suggestions that I sue!

The Canadian N. Americans would probably apologize to the pavement improvement--we're so polite, haha! We don't tend to sue for such things. Though because of TV programs and movies from south of us, there seems to be more of it starting: suing for slip and falls, etc. Sometimes it's our own fault for our slips and falls. (I'm not talking about your own, Anna!) *Sigh*

I really hope the break wasn't too big--a hairline fracture vs a complete one and that your wrist will mend soon. You could colour your cast with the Portuguese colours, to remind you where you are going--and as a fashion accessory until you get it off!

 

[PEI_Heather]

I got full cover.... cost was minimal to go to Europe. In 2013 it was approx $130. for two months.

In 2009 i was taken to a medical centre (Spain) for a chest infection.....i handed over my passport and I was told no charge. NZ has arrangements with a lot of countries as visitors to NZ are covered by our 24hr no fault insurance scheme and dont have to pay for first responce medical treatment due to a accident e.g Ambulance. (ACC)

In 2013 my travel insurance (Southern Cross) would not let me fly until I had a MRI. This was in Portugal and cost over $900.00 which was refunded when I got home. I kinda hoped the dr was going to say " You cant fly unless you can lie flat" ...ie business class....but alas....i flew home with the NZ Symphony Orchestra and was most annoyed when I was donked on the head by a french horn that fall out of the overhead locker!

Im thinking.... I should write a comedy about my second Camino. So many things did not go to plan.....but I can totally see the funny side.☺ then and now

Just as an aside.
When I rang my home insurer; to set up a automatic payment before I left, they said if I hadnt of let them know I was going and my home was going to be vacant for over two months my home insurance would have been voided!!

Same as in Canada, Lise: If you are out of your house for four days or more, your insurance is null and void. If you have someone to come in one a day or every other day, your insurance is OK. Having a housesitter covers a homeowner completely. (Here in Canada, that is!)

 

[PEI_Heather]

The Ontario version of Canadian health care does cover limited emergency health expenses while traveling. They still recommend additional coverage. I get a very good rate through my credit card plan.

Too bad for me, Paul; I'm in PEI! We have our own emergency healthcare, but only when home. It's called lobster!

 

[marie s-g]

Here's a topic that I haven't seen raised and it relates to medical insurance. Certainly from the UK we have (I think) a reciprocal agreement with other EU countries to receive medical care (but not private care).
Myself I have free medical cover with my bank as long as I use my bank card in the country where medical help is provided, having said that I haven't been in touch with them yet to explain where and what I'm doing.

What, if any medical insurance do other pilgrims have?

Even though U.K residents will receive " free care " in some countries you may have to pay up front for any care and claim it back ! I sorted out insurance cover before I went on camino - just in case !

 

[mev79]

I just finished my first Camino Portuguese and I did it without insurance (I live in Holland) , lucky me. And now I need a physio therapy as I ruined my knees and hips

 

[marie s-g]

Here's a topic that I haven't seen raised and it relates to medical insurance. Certainly from the UK we have (I think) a reciprocal agreement with other EU countries to receive medical care (but not private care).
Myself I have free medical cover with my bank as long as I use my bank card in the country where medical help is provided, having said that I haven't been in touch with them yet to explain where and what I'm doing.

What, if any medical insurance do other pilgrims have?

There is an agreement for treatment, in some countries, patient may have to pay up front and claim back later. But repatriation is not covered !

 

[marie s-g]

I just finished my first Camino Portuguese and I did it without insurance (I live in Holland) , lucky me. And now I need a physio therapy as I ruined my knees and hips

You were very lucky, but to travel without insurance is taking a risk ! Many holiday makers have been caught out, when they've needed repatriation, it can cost thousands

 

[Annie G]

I just finished my first Camino Portuguese and I did it without insurance (I live in Holland) , lucky me. And now I need a physio therapy as I ruined my knees and hips

Oh, geez. This is my worst nightmare. I am willing to muster through the Camino with my bad knees but then to have permanent damage by the time I finally get to Santiago? I don't think so. I'm thinking I'll consult PT before starting the Big Walk.

 

[Al the optimist]

Anna. Get sellos on your cast. What a souvenir!

 

[annakappa]

Anna. Get sellos on your cast. What a souvenir!

Just what I thought to do, Al! Also I'll get the kids here to paint a Tico ( costarrican) flag, then when I get to Portugal, I'll ask some nice hospitalero do do me a Portuguese one!

 

[annakappa]

Sorry to hear about the wrist. How you have no more set backs and it doesn't prevent you lifting a glass or two.

Still got my left hand!

 

[Tincatinker]

Those relying on bank card /credit card "inclusive" travel insurance really do need to read the incredibly hard to read, pages and pages of "small" print. My bank, may their shareholders writhe in shame, covers me for trips of less than thirty days provided I am staying in pre-booked accommodation, am not engaging in high -risk activities such as "un- guided hiking at heights above 1000 metres" and have avoided consumption of intoxicants including alcoholic drinks.

Needless to say I insure myself via a specialist who can find an underwriter prepared to speculate against the risks I present. Oh, and do be very honest about the risk you represent. We don't all have a dentist dad who can abandon his business and fly half-way round the globe to sort out our cremation and the scattering of our ashes. And it is impressive how thorough a professional Loss Adjustor ( lovely title) can be in establishing why your insurer should not pay the bet.

But don't worry. It won't happen to you.

 

[VNwalking]

Oh, and do be very honest about the risk you represent. We don't all have a dentist dad who can abandon his business and fly half-way round the globe to sort out our cremation and the scattering of our ashes. And it is impressive how thorough a professional Loss Adjustor ( lovely title) can be in establishing why your insurer should not pay the bet.

But don't worry. It won't happen to you.

Yeah, right. Who knows??
Just buying travel medical insurance for a non-Camino journey from World Nomads...and hope never to need it but have no particular resentment about the cost. As you say, Tincatinker...it's a gamble. And I want to CMA. 'In case' might just happen.

 

[MTtoCamino]

I wonder what the percentage of pilgrims who walk have no insurance at all, If I was a young man it would not even registered as important.

 

[VNwalking]

We leave next week and, bummer, I've just broken my wrist, which means that the cast will have to be removed around 14th June, when I guess we will still be walking the Portuguese.

So sorry to read this Anna (slowly working my way through this thread as I buy travel insurance...)!!!
Bummer indeed, but fortunately it's a wrist and not an ankle. Really like the sello idea, and hope this doesn't crimp your style. (BTW, careful getting your pack on and off...or get help. Ouch.)

 

[Al the optimist]

BTW we want a selfie of the stamped cast Annie!

 

[mev79]

Oh, geez. This is my worst nightmare. I am willing to muster through the Camino with my bad knees but then to have permanent damage by the time I finally get to Santiago? I don't think so. I'm thinking I'll consult PT before starting the Big Walk.

It is good idea indeed to consult before- or walk less than 25-30km per day. I had quite tight schedule so I had to follow the plan and last 3 weeks I was on painkillers (maybe that is the problem I ruined my health a bit). But I still don´t regret it. Just hope the therapist can fix my health and next time I know to be more careful and not to walk every day so long distances. As I represent the "poor travelers" I do travel without the insurance in Europe - just hope for the best and if something happens, I have friends who can help me out. Not the best plan but it is the only plan I have

 

[Lachance]

I once put in a minor property claim after returning from a trip, under the "free" travel insurance that came with a credit card. Eventually they had to pay it after treating me like a fraudster, reams of paperwork and months of delay. The insurer was a major European company. No way would I risk that treatment for a health emergency overseas, so always take private cover now.