What Older Clients Who Travel Must Know About Medicare

Those retirees need expert advice about Medicare enrollment to avoid potential missteps.

The Coverage Gaps

The Original Medicare Part A inpatient hospitalization plan and the Original Medicare Part B outpatient care and physician services plan generally do not cover medical services received outside the United States, with limited exceptions:

• Emergency care near U.S. borders, such as in Canada or Mexico.
• Medical care received onboard cruise ships within U.S. territorial waters.
• Certain emergencies during travel involving Alaska.

Despite these limitations, it is crucial even for Americans who move overseas to maintain Part A coverage while abroad, to avoid penalties if they return to the United States later.