Going on vacation? You’re covered.

Posted on May 27, 2016

Vacation can be great fun, whether you’re relaxing by the lake or zip lining through a rainforest. But, what if you get sick while you’re away? Don’t worry, Health New England has you covered.*

Being prepared is an important first step. Prior to leaving for vacation, be sure to see your primary care provider (PCP) for routine care, laboratory tests, screenings and prescription refills.

Travel checklist

• Book necessary appointments with your doctor before leaving.
• Get any required vaccinations before traveling outside the U.S.
• Pack enough medications for your trip.
• Take your PCP’s phone number.
• Pack your insurance ID card.
• Set up Teladoc™ account ahead of time.

Know your options
Once you’re on your well-deserved vacation, what are your options for medical care if a health issue arises?

For a non-emergency medical issue:
Consult your PCP first, whenever possible. However, if you can’t reach your doctor, Health New England offers other options:

• Teladoc™ — Request a phone or online consultation with a U.S. board-certified physician to treat non-emergency medical issues such as a cold, the flu, a urinary tract infection and more. Go to healthnewengland.org/Teladoc or call 1-800-Teladoc. This service is available for the same copay as a PCP visit. (Teladoc is available for most members; however, some self-funded plan members are not eligible.)
• Nurse Line — For free health advice, call the Health New England 24/7 nurse line. Licensed nurses and clinicians can answer questions on health-related issues and medications. Call (866) 389-7613 or email nurseline@hne.com.

In an emergency situation:
If you have a true medical emergency, call 911 (in the U.S.) or go to the nearest emergency room (ER) immediately.

Be aware that you’ll be responsible for paying your ER copay/deductible. Outside the U.S.: You may be required to pay out-of-pocket for emergency medical services. Your plan will reimburse you for qualified** emergency medical expenses minus any applicable copay/deductible.

So if you’re enrolled in a Health New England health plan, enjoy your vacation and rest assured that you’re covered for emergency medical services when you’re outside of the Health New England service area.

*In accordance with your plan benefits.
**If you receive treatment for covered services from an out-of-plan hospital for a condition that is not an emergency medical condition, you will be responsible for payment for such covered services as described in your benefits summary.

Categories: Newsletter

Tags: Emergency Room, Health New England, non-emergency, nurse line, teladoc, travel checklist, traveling, vacation coverage