• Do you carry a major medical health insurance policy that is valid while you are outside the continental United States? Verify how the coverage would work – you pay all bills up front for any medical care is the typical process.

• How will you get assistance should you experience a medical problem while outside the US? Do you have a preexisting condition that should be considered and how does your insurance cover this?

• Do you have emergency assistance insurance that covers at a minimum the following:
  
  a. Emergency medical evacuation ($300,000 or higher recommended)
  b. Medically supervised return
  c. Repatriation of mortal remains ($25,000 or greater recommended)
  d. Family and companion travel benefits (i.e. transport of dependent children back home, transportation to join a hospitalized member by a family member, accommodation while visiting hospitalized member, return of minor children, return of traveling companion, etc.)
  e. 24/7 Emergency Travel Assistance Call Center
  f . Medical referrals
  g. Emergency political / security evacuation
  h. Transportation after political or security evacuation
  i.  Legal Referrals, Lost Document Advice & Assistance
  j.  Medical Expense Guarantee
  k. Emergency Translation & Interpreter Services
  l.  Varying options provided by different plans

• Do you need trip insurance? Consider securing trip cancellation and interruption coverage – combination policies are available generally through travel agencies.

• Are students accompanying you? University of South Alabama policy requires that they consult with the Office of International Education and participate in a pre-departure training program

• Have you left a complete copy of your travel itinerary, emergency contact information, etc. with someone here in the U.S.? Similarly do you have a copy with you?

1. ISIC Teacher Card – application attached – available through USA for Students and Faculty – limitations do apply.
2. Medex Assist programs: http://www.medexassist.com/Individuals/
3. SOS International memberships: http://www.internationalsos.com/buymembership/
4. More on Medical Assistance Information from U.S. Department of State: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1215.html 

NOTE: Travel to countries which the U.S. Department of State has issued travel restrictions or declared a high risk area are excluded under most major medical and travel assistance policies (coverage for such travel may be available under special coverage options – check with each provider). Most policies have significant exclusions, read all policies with great care.