1. Home
2. Blogs

USA and Healthcare costs: All you need to know before your trip

• 
• 
• 
• 0
• 0

Whether you're travelling for a vacation, to study, or to see loved ones, visiting the United States of America is likely a dream come true. However, the high cost of healthcare in that country is something that many tourists don't always account for. You can spend a lot of money on a fast trip to the doctor or even a little fever. Sounds frightening, doesn't it, to have to spend lakhs of rupees out of pocket for a simple checkup or a few hours in the ER? Because of this, more individuals, like you, are increasingly selecting travel insurance India that offers comprehensive medical coverage for international travel. If something unforeseen occurs while you are travelling or studying in the US, it provides financial security and peace of mind. Learn how these costs are driving up the demand for overseas travel medical insurance.

What are the healthcare costs you can expect in the USA?

You're undoubtedly thrilled about all the sites you'll see if you're planning a trip to the United States. However, before you leave, let's discuss something that most people overlook until it's too late: the expense of medical care there. The American healthcare system is among the most costly in the world, in contrast to India, where medical care is significantly less expensive. Even a small problem might cost you a fortune if you don't have the right coverage, such as international travel medical insurance.

1. Visits to the Emergency Room: An emergency room visit in India could cost a few thousand rupees. However, an ER visit in the United States usually costs between $700 and $3,400 (about ₹58,000 to ₹2.8 lakh). That just covers the consultation; additional fees apply if you require testing, treatment, or admission. Additionally, keep in mind that ambulance fees are not included in these costs.

2. Doctor Consultations: A normal visit to a medical practitioner could cost you anything from $100 to $200 (₹8,000 to ₹17,000). Seeking a specialist? That sum can quickly double. In the US, you are charged for everything, even a brief visit, in contrast to India, where private doctor visits are reasonably priced.

3. Ambulance Services: The cost of contacting an ambulance in the United States can range from $400 to $1,200 (₹33,000 to ₹1 lakh), which many first-time travellers find shocking. An ambulance is required if you require emergency care and cannot afford to take a chance on a taxi. However, the subsequent bill may be as excruciating as the injury itself.

4. Hospital Stays: It gets extremely serious at this point. In the US, a typical three-day hospital stay costs about $30,000, which is more than ₹25 lakh. That isn't a typo. Additionally, it excludes follow-up care and surgery. For instance, the cost of surgery for a simple fracture might easily exceed $10,000 (₹8.5 lakh). You will have to use all of your funds if you don't have medical emergency travel insurance in India.

5. Medication: Don't expect to be able to go to a pharmacy and get your medications at a low cost. Depending on the brand, availability, and insurance coverage, even something as basic as insulin can cost more than $300 a month.

6. Major Treatments & operation: A heart operation or transplant may cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, while a little treatment like tonsil removal costs $4,000 to $6,000. While it's common in the US, most Indian households wouldn't think of such hefty medical costs. Make sure you're completely covered before you go by reading this comprehensive information on Travel Insurance for Indians Travelling to the USA to better understand the appropriate coverage for your journey.

Why is there a rise in demand for travel insurance because of the USA healthcare?

We just learned how much it costs for simple to complex procedures in the USA, so you already know the main answer to this question. Here are a few other contributing factors:

1. There is no notice for accidents or emergencies. Travel itself carries additional dangers, even if you're in excellent health: traffic accidents, unexpected weather changes, foreign cuisine, or just plain poor luck. In the US, you will be concerned about not only your health but also the enormous expenses if you become sick or have an accident. You may manage these crises without experiencing financial strain if you have overseas travel medical insurance. If you're covered, you won't hesitate to call for an ambulance or go to the hospital.

2. No universal healthcare system in place Public healthcare serves citizens and occasionally even visitors in many nations. However, there isn't a universal system in the US. Therefore, you are entirely responsible for covering medical expenses while you are there, whether you are a parent, student, or tourist. This is where medical insurance for international travel comes into play. It serves as your safety net, paying for testing, consultations, emergency treatments, ambulance fees, and occasionally even follow-up care.

3. It is mandatory due to university and visa restrictions. International students are now frequently asked to provide proof of insurance by US universities. As a matter of fact, several visa categories also strongly encourage or require it. If you don't have the right insurance, you might have to pay for the more costly options offered by the institution. It makes far more sense to get your own overseas travel medical insurance plan from India; it's more affordable and allows you greater control over the coverage.

4. It is now required rather than optional. The days of considering travel insurance an extravagance are long gone. These days, it's essential, particularly for Indian tourists visiting the US. Students pursuing higher education, parents visiting children studying overseas, and even lone travellers are selecting insurance as a crucial component of their preparation. It's about peace of mind, not just checking a box.

5. Growing awareness following COVID-19 Everyone's eyes were awakened to the unpredictability of life by the pandemic. People who had never thought about insurance now think it's a wise choice. Travellers realised the true importance of having coverage after COVID-related hospitalisations, trip cancellations, and delays. And when it comes to a country like the US, awareness has only gone up.

Conclusion

A sudden illness or accident could result in significant medical expenditures, regardless of whether you are a parent visiting your child, a student, or a tourist. Travel insurance India with abroad travel medical insurance is therefore no longer merely a choice; rather, it is a wise requirement. It provides you with peace of mind while visiting and shields you from unforeseen costs. Having the proper coverage guarantees that you won't be caught off guard in the event of a medical emergency overseas, especially with the growing requirements for visas and universities.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

RELATED ARTICLES

Tips to Follow When Buying Travel Insurance for USA

Quick Tips for Single Trip Travel Insurance to USA

Travel Insurance for Indians Travelling To USA

Reasons for Visa Rejection and Refusal

Guide to Download Universal Travel Pass

---

• 
• 
• 
•