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What Is Medical Billing And Coding? Everything You Need To Know

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Key Takeaways

Medical billing and coding are related healthcare industry occupations that ensure reimbursement and accurate medical record keeping.

The medical coding process involves using code sets to translate medical providers' notes into standardized codes that healthcare organizations use to maintain patient medical records and generate billing claims.

Medical billers use these codes to create billable claims, then submit these claims to payers and track each claim to ensure payment.

Medical records specialists such as medical billers and coders need thorough understanding of standardized codes and industry software, along with strong communication skills.

These professionals work throughout the healthcare sector, including in hospitals, doctors' offices and other medical facilities. They can also find jobs at insurance companies, government agencies and law firms.

Not all healthcare professions require a degree from a medical school. You can break into the healthcare industry by becoming a medical biller or coder—and you don't have to earn a degree to do so.

What is medical billing and coding? The two professions are related, but they're not the same.

In simple terms, medical billing is the process of ensuring healthcare providers receive payment for the services they perform. Medical coding, on the other hand, is the process of translating health and patient information into a universal code.

If you have a detail-oriented, analytical outlook and want a healthcare career you can start quickly, medical coding and billing might be a great fit for you. Discover what this field is all about with our guide.

What Is Medical Billing and Coding?

Medical billing and coding keep revenue flowing through the U.S. Healthcare system. At the highest level, medical billing and coding professionals streamline the reimbursement cycle to ensure providers are paid for their services and that patients are billed correctly.

Medical billers and coders keep patient records, calculate charges and review files. They handle insurance claims accurately and efficiently.

Medical coders use specialized coding classification systems to translate a healthcare provider's diagnosis, procedure, prescription or other services into standardized codes. Common classification systems include Current Procedural Terminology®, International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10-CM) and Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Level II.

Medical billers then use these codes to create billable claims that can be submitted to payers (such as insurance companies) or clearinghouses. They also monitor these claims to ensure that the provider receives payment.

Medical Billing vs. Medical Coding

While certain aspects of medical billing and coding overlap, they're not identical tasks. For example, medical billing is often patient-facing, whereas medical coding occurs behind the scenes.

What Is Medical Billing?

Billing involves creating bills, also known as claims, to send to health insurance companies or patients. If a patient has health insurance, a medical biller sends claims to the insurance company. In this case, the insurance company will compensate the healthcare provider. If a patient does not have health insurance, medical billers send bills directly to the patient for compensation.

Medical billers and coders may work together to create what's known as a superbill, or an itemized form to create claims.

After an insurance company receives a claim, it will determine how much it will pay through a process called adjudication. In cases where a company will not pay the entire claim, it is a medical biller's responsibility to revise and resubmit the claim or to bill the patient for the remainder. Billers must keep track of all claims to ensure payment from the responsible parties.

What Is Medical Coding?

When a patient arrives at a hospital or other healthcare facility, medical professionals record the services, medications and procedures provided and the reason for each service. These details are known as clinical documentation.

Medical coding involves analyzing clinical documentation and linking each service, medication and procedure with its designated code. Those codes, recognized within a standardized coding system, synthesize what providers did during a patient visit.

In addition to providing the information medical billers use to generate billable claims, the medical coding process is essential to accurate medical recordkeeping at the population level. The use of codes facilitates data tracking and statistical analysis in the healthcare field.

What Are Medical Biller and Coding Jobs?

What does a medical biller and coder do? In many cases, one person can tackle both medical coding and billing, but the tasks are sometimes split between billing and coding specialists.

In the coding process, medical coders review physician notes, patient records, lab results and other clinical documentation. Medical coders assign standard medical codes to each service or diagnosis. These professionals then pass the codes to the medical biller who uses the codes to create claims.

Many medical billers and coders work for hospitals, physician's offices, health insurance companies, law firms and public or governmental agencies. Some medical billers and coders work remotely, either as independent contractors or with a company. Most work full time.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an above-average 8% growth for medical records specialists—a category that includes medical billing and coding jobs—between 2022 and 2032. The BLS expects an average of 15,000 annual job openings for medical billers and coders over the decade.

With a median annual wage of $48,780 in this profession—equating to roughly $23.45 per hour—medical billing and coding salaries are typically on par with the national median of $48,060 per year.

Skills Used in Medical Billing and Coding

Medical billing and coding is a technical and analytical job. It also requires the ability to communicate well. You'll need to feel comfortable using coding software and standard coding systems. Having excellent customer service skills will come in handy, too.

Professionals in this field usually need medical billing and coding certification. To fulfill the requirements for medical billing and coding certification, you should complete a reputable training course to learn the skills needed to succeed in this role.

Communication Skills

Depending on their specific roles, billing and coding professionals regularly interact with other billers and coders, healthcare professionals, patients and insurance companies. In a single day, medical billers and coders—particularly those who perform both functions—might need to decipher medical jargon, clarify a dispute with an insurance company and answer a patient's billing questions.

Billers and coders must learn to navigate interpersonal communications with efficiency and clarity.

Ability to Work with Billing and Coding Software

Coding software is a fundamental component of medical billing and coding. Some software programs you might use on the job include CodeLink® Online and 3M. You'll need to feel confident with each.

Medical billing software might include programs like DrChrono, AdvancedMD and CureMD.

Customer Service Experience

Many medical billers interact with patients frequently, so handling requests and inquiries with expert customer service is essential. The world of medical billing is complex, and patients may not understand technical terms or medical jargon. As a medical records professional, it's up to you to bridge the gap.

Knowledge of Medical Coding Systems

A top-notch understanding of standardized code sets used to file claims is the backbone of the medical coding and billing fields. These codes classify key services completed during a patient visit such as procedures, drugs administered, supplies and equipment used, and nonphysician services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Medical Billing and Coding Is medical billing and coding hard?

Medical billing and coding is a technical profession that demands excellent communication and attention to detail. For some individuals, these factors can make the profession challenging, but for those who possess those qualities, being a medical coder or biller can provide a stimulating and satisfying career.

Does medical billing and coding require math?

Pursuing a medical billing and coding career does not require a knowledge of advanced mathematics, but professionals in this field do need basic math skills. Medical coders and billers may be called upon to calculate charges related to medical bills and convert units of measurement, and they may sometimes engage in statistical analysis.

How long does it take to learn medical coding and billing?

To learn medical coding and billing, you should enroll in a course from a reputable provider. A good medical billing and coding course usually takes six months to a year to complete and prepares you to pursue certification in the field. To expand your career options, you can also pursue a two-year associate or four-year bachelor's degree.

Is medical coding a stressful job?

Medical coding can be a stressful job for some professionals, but it depends on your workplace, skills and outlook. Medical coders must interact with patients, providers and colleagues; fulfill productivity goals within set deadlines; and meet high standards for accuracy, which some coders may find stressful.

Are medical billing and coding separate jobs?

Medical coding and billing are related professions, but each one requires a distinct set of skills and responsibilities. Medical coders convert patient information into standardized numerical and alphanumeric codes, while medical billers use this encoded information to create billable claims. At smaller medical practices, however, one worker may tackle both roles.

Which credential is best for a medical coder?

The best-known certifications for medical coders come from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), AAPC, the National Healthcareer Association and Practice Management Institute. AHIMA and AAPC each offer multiple credentials for medical coders with varying experience levels and professional specializations.

Does having more than one credential help you as a medical coder?

Having multiple credentials can definitely help you as a medical coder. In addition to expanding your job options, holding more than one certification can improve your earning potential. According to a 2024 salary report from AAPC, a leading credentialing organization for the medical billing and coding field, medical coders with two or more certifications outearn those with only one certification by $10,000 or more per year on average.

Can you specialize as a medical coder?

Yes—in the medical coding field, specializations are often related to workplace type, and you can earn credentials to demonstrate your specialized knowledge. For example, AHIMA's Certified Coding Specialist – Physician-Based® caters to coders working in doctors' offices, while AAPC's Certified Outpatient Coder® makes sense for those employed in emergency departments, outpatient clinics, and ambulatory surgery clinics. Coders with the Certified Inpatient Coder® credential from AAPC often work in general hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and inpatient rehab facilities.

Travel Medical Insurance Emergency Healthcare Coverage

What Is Travel Medical Insurance?

International travel medical insurance is a type of insurance that can help cover the cost of medical care abroad. If you're on vacation and suffer a sudden injury or illness, you may need to receive care from a local facility, which your domestic health insurance might not cover. Depending on your location, you might even require transportation to a more advanced facility via Helivac or other specialized medical transport.

Without travel medical insurance, coverage is up to the discretion of your health insurance provider. If not covered, you could accrue thousands of dollars in medical bills by the time you return home, especially if you need emergency medical evacuation services. If you have a travel insurance plan with medical coverage, your insurance provider will cover certain expenses up to your coverage maximum.

"International travel presents several risks, ranging from having passports and other valuables stolen to experiencing health-related problems that require immediate medical attention or having your travel plans disrupted," said Lisa Gardner, Ph.D, visiting assistant professor of actuarial science at Drake University.

Like other types of travel insurance, travel medical coverage typically works on a reimbursement-based model, meaning you will have to pay the initial bill upfront. So if you purchase a plan, it's important to keep documentation of all medical expenses you incur while on your trip so you can file a claim.

Travel Health Insurance vs. Travel Insurance

A travel medical insurance policy provides a limited range of benefits that can help cover the costs of emergency medical bills incurred while traveling.

Medical-only policies are typically more affordable than full travel insurance but will not provide trip delay and interruption benefits. For example, if you get sick on vacation and must go home, medical-only insurance will not compensate you for nonrefundable flights or hotel costs.

The table below summarizes the types of coverage you can expect from travel medical insurance policies versus a complete travel insurance plan.

Coverage Type Travel Medical Insurance Travel Insurance Trip cancellation X ✓ Trip interruption and delay X ✓ Dental coverage benefits ✓ ✓ Emergency medical evacuation ✓ ✓ Lost luggage X ✓ 24-hour assistance services ✓ ✓ Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) ✓ ✓ Rental car coverage X ✓

The coronavirus pandemic shifted how most people travel worldwide, and travel insurance companies now typically include COVID-19 coverage within plans. Most reputable travel medical insurance companies list COVID-19 as a covered reason for medical coverage. If you are worried about the virus while traveling, we recommend reading your provider's sample policy to ensure COVID-19 coverage is eligible for reimbursement.

Sixty percent of the 1,000 survey respondents in our 2024 travel insurance survey would recommend a comprehensive travel policy with medical coverage, cancellation, baggage and more to a friend.

What Does Travel Health Insurance Cover?

To help you better understand what international travel health insurance coverage offers, we've provided example scenarios in which a traveler may or may not qualify for reimbursement.

Coverage Type Example Covered Services Coverage Amount Covered by Travel Medical Insurance? Medical expenses You need to visit a hospital for an arm injury after falling on a hike in Brazil. Hospitalizations, medications, X-rays and other necessary treatments Up to $2 million ✓ Emergency evacuation You were skiing in Switzerland and crashed, requiring an airlift to a major hospital for emergency surgery.* Evacuation, surgery and other necessary treatments $500k–unlimited ✓ Emergency dental You were walking on a busy street in Paris and fell and chipped your tooth. Dental work such as an exam, crowns, broken teeth, novocaine and more Up to $500 (unless included in medical expense maximums) ✓ Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) The policyholder and other covered persons die or lose a limb while traveling. Accidental death or loss of a limb Up to $50k ✓ Hazardous activities You broke your leg while rock climbing in Spain and need to see a doctor. Emergency room visits, surgery, cast and other required treatments Up to $25k Varies** Trip interruption There is a family emergency that requires you to cut your vacation short and return home. Hotel stays, plane tickets, transportation costs and other losses 100%–200% of trip cost X Trip cancellation You broke your hip before your departure and must cancel your trip. This coverage also applies to cancellations due to the death of travelers or family, inclement weather, jury duty and more. Flight tickets, lodging and other prepaid, nonrefundable expenses 100%–150% of trip cost X Baggage loss or delay Your baggage was lost by your airline while flying to Japan. Baggage and packed personal belongings Up to $2k X Rentals You accidentally hit a deer while driving in British Columbia and damaged your rental vehicle, or you accidentally broke a light fixture in your vacation rental. Damage to your rental car or vacation rental Up to $50k for car rentals or $3k for vacation rentals rental X

*To qualify for medical evacuation coverage, you must have documentation from medical facilities ordering the service.

**Not all travel insurance policies cover injuries resulting from hazardous activities. However, some providers will offer coverage as an add-on.

How Much Medical Coverage Do You Need?

Our research has found that purchasing at least $100,000 in travel medical expense coverage is sufficient for most travelers. However, how much medical coverage you need for your specific circumstances depends on factors such as your age, travel destination, itinerary, planned activities and more.

If you're traveling to a remote area, have a pre-existing medical condition or plan on participating in adventure activities, you may have more peace of mind with higher coverage limits for emergency medical care. You might also consider a policy with medical evacuation insurance. According to Medjet, one in 30 trips end in a medical emergency — and with the average cost of medical transport alone costing up to $180,000, purchasing medical coverage with generous limits can save you monetarily in an emergency.

If you're looking to compare travel medical insurance plans to find the right fit for your needs, it is important to understand the coverage maximums, exclusions and deductibles set forth by each insurer. This can help prevent surprises when filing a claim for medical expenses accrued during your trip.

Types of Travel Medical Insurance Plans

When searching for travel health insurance plans, you may encounter primary, secondary, single-trip, and multi-trip insurance policies. In the sections below, we will explore each of these and detail which policies are best for specific travelers.

Primary vs. Secondary Health Insurance

Some travel medical insurance providers offer both primary and secondary health insurance plans. Primary plans pay for medical expenses before any other coverage you might have. This is especially useful for travelers whose primary plans only cover medical care domestically.

However, if you already have health insurance that extends abroad, consider a secondary travel medical insurance plan. This plan requires your existing health policy to pay first. Once you've hit your limits through your primary insurer, a secondary plan should cover the rest.

Do I Need U.S. Health Insurance To Qualify for International Travel Health Insurance?

You do not need U.S.-based health insurance to obtain certain international travel health insurance policies, such as most single-trip plans. However, note that domestic health insurance typically does not cover medical expenses abroad. However, some providers, such as HTH Worldwide, have separate policies available to travelers with and without a primary health plan.

MarketWatch Guides Tip

If you do not have U.S. Health insurance, we recommend purchasing a primary travel medical insurance plan. We also recommend considering primary travel medical insurance if your standard health insurance lacks international coverage.

Single-Trip vs. Annual Travel Medical Insurance

As you shop for a travel medical insurance policy, you'll likely come across single-trip and annual travel insurance policies. If you're a frequent traveler and plan on taking multiple trips per year, you might consider annual travel medical insurance rather than a single-trip plan. Short-term medical insurance for international travel only covers you for one trip, with coverage ending once you return home. Annual travel insurance, also known as a multi-trip policy, typically covers policyholders planning to take several trips back-to-back, with coverage usually lasting up to a year. 

If you travel often, annual travel medical coverage offers a cheaper and more convenient alternative to purchasing multiple single-trip policies. However, note that annual policies typically have per-trip or yearly coverage limits depending on the provider. These plans also lack trip cancellation insurance, rental car protection and baggage loss coverage, which you'll often find with a comprehensive travel insurance policy with medical coverage. 

We recommend comparing quotes from various providers and considering your situation and travel needs when deciding what's most important to you in a travel medical insurance plan. 

Long-Term Travel Health Insurance for Expats

If you plan to live and work abroad for more than a year, you may consider health insurance for expats over a standard travel insurance plan. These plans can provide long-term travel insurance coverage for individuals and family members living overseas, and you can renew coverage annually for as long as you're abroad.

However, travel medical insurance policies can provide additional protection not typically found through a standard international health insurance plan, such as emergency medical evacuation and repatriation coverage. If you're an expat who plans to travel between countries often, you may find a long-term travel insurance plan that covers trip interruption or baggage loss along with medical emergencies more ideal.

How Much Does Travel Medical Insurance Cost?

When purchasing international travel medical insurance, you can expect to pay between 5% and 6% of your total trip cost. Based on quotes gathered by our team from two dozen travel insurers, the average cost of travel insurance ranges from $95 to $316. Travel insurance is not a "one price fits all" sort of coverage. Getting a quote is the best way to see how much a travel medical policy will cost you.

The table below breaks down the average plan cost from each travel insurance provider in this review. It also includes our recommendation for the best plan from each provider and the highest medical expense maximum offered.

Understanding what international travel health insurance companies evaluate when pricing policies can help you get the most out of your coverage. The following are the biggest factors that influence travel insurance prices:

Your age

Trip duration

Destination

Coverage level

Group size

Why Buy International Travel Medical Insurance?

If you're on the fence about purchasing travel medical insurance, consider the financial and healthcare-related safety net it can provide as you travel. Our research has found that many domestic healthcare policies don't extend coverage abroad. If you end up ill or injured while traveling internationally and lack insurance coverage, you are fully responsible for paying out-of-pocket for medical bills associated with your care.

Also consider your unique circumstances as a traveler, as your needs may differ from others. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), travel medical insurance policies may benefit travelers with pre-existing health conditions, participants in extreme or adventure sports — such as scuba diving, rock climbing, bungee jumping and windsurfing — and those studying abroad for a prolonged period. You may have a greater risk of needing healthcare in these scenarios, and travel medical insurance can protect you financially if an emergency arises.

MarketWatch Guides Tip

While Americans may have medical coverage through their primary insurer while traveling domestically, benefits do not extend to citizens of other countries. If you're a traveler visiting the U.S., we highly recommend purchasing a travel medical policy to avoid paying out-of-pocket for emergency medical bills. According to GoodRx, the average medical cost of an emergency room visit without insurance in the U.S. Ranges from $2,400 to $2,600.

Who Doesn't Need Travel Health Coverage?

You may not need travel medical insurance coverage if your primary health insurance plan provides coverage in other countries. However, this is likely only the case with private insurance plans. In addition, you could forego a travel medical plan if your credit card offers travel medical benefits.

If you have a credit card with travel benefits, check if you have travel medical coverage. Some cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, offer travel insurance coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions but not for medical emergencies.

When Is Travel Medication Insurance Required?

While some countries or visa requirements may mandate travel medical insurance, purchasing a policy is optional in many cases. To verify whether travel health insurance is required where you're traveling, research your destination using the U.S. Department of State website, which maintains a list of entry requirements for U.S. Passport holders and permanent residents. 

Travel to the Schengen Region in Europe

Many countries, particularly those in the Schengen Area of Europe, require travelers to have sufficient travel insurance before issuing a visa. Even if travel medical insurance is not required, you may still choose to invest in some level of coverage. We recommend shopping for coverage at least one month before your trip to ensure the documentation arrives before your departure.

Use the dropdown menu below to find out more about specific travel insurance requirements in your destination country.

The Best Standalone Travel Medical Insurance Plans of 2024

We chose our top picks for the best international travel medical insurance based on the emergency medical, evacuation and repatriation, pre-existing condition and COVID-19 coverage offered by each provider. We encourage you to consider what medical coverages are most important to you and fit your needs when shopping for a travel medical policy.

IMG Patriot Platinum: Best Travel Medical Insurance Plan

We named the Patriot Platinum policy from International Medical Group (IMG) our pick for the best travel medical insurance plan. Ideal for travelers looking for high medical coverage limits, this policy provides up to $8 million in maximum coverage for trips within the U.S. And internationally — more than any other provider we've chosen for this review. We also appreciate how this plan allows travelers the freedom and flexibility to seek treatment with the hospital or doctor of their choice.

You'll find coverage for pre-existing conditions, telehealth benefits and evacuation. Plus, coverage can transport you to an appropriate medical facility for treatment even if your condition isn't life-threatening. While the Patriot Platinum plan offers little in the way of standard travel coverage, it provides an option to purchase a trip cancellation, interruption and travel delay rider if you're planning a domestic trip.

IMG's Patriot Platinum plan includes the following:

Pre-existing condition coverage: Covers emergency care if a pre-existing condition becomes life-threatening or requires immediate treatment (not available for travelers over 70 years old) 

Medical deductible: $0–$25,000 

Medical expense maximum: Up to $8 million

Evacuation maximum: Up to your chosen medical expense maximum

why pick IMG

We recommend IMG travel insurance policies for travelers seeking higher-than-average medical coverage limits, as it offers the highest maximums out of the providers featured in this review.

Geoblue Voyager Choice: Best Medical-Only Travel Insurance Plan

GeoBlue, administered by Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), offers travel medical policies with limited trip coverage, which is why we named the Voyager Choice policy as the best medical-only travel insurance plan. While the insurer markets this policy as a premium plan, we found it the most budget-friendly option out of our top picks, with an average cost that's 78% less than traditional travel insurance.

You'll find up to $1 million in medical coverage and $500,000 in medical evacuation insurance through the Voyager Choice plan. It even offers up to $25,000 in coverage for hazardous activities. However, since this plan solely offers travel medical coverage, you won't find trip protections such as trip cancellation or delay insurance. Note that some plans require a domestic health insurance policy to purchase, so those without coverage should look elsewhere.

We recommend GeoBlue for travelers looking to forgo trip protection for cancellations and delays, and those solely seeking travel medical coverage.

Pre-existing condition coverage: Yes, if you have domestic health insurance

Medical deductible: $0–$500

Medical expense maximum: Up to $1 million

Evacuation maximum: Up to $500,000

Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice: Best Health Insurance Plan for Visitors to the U.S.

Seven Corners provides a variety of highly customizable plan options, but we chose it as our pick for the best travel health insurance for U.S. Visitors. The provider's Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice plan is extendable for up to three years and offers a lifetime maximum coverage limit of $1 million, which makes it ideal for tourists or U.S. Citizens looking for protection for family visiting from another country. 

This policy supplies coverage for healthcare services such as hospital stays, surgeries, pre-existing conditions, medical evacuations and even protection for incidental trips to your home country. However, it's worth noting that medical maximums available for this plan depend on your age, and each benefit through this policy has a monetary limit.

We recommend Seven Corners for international travelers looking at an extended stay in the U.S. And would like travel medical coverage for peace of mind.

Pre-existing conditions coverage: $25,000–$75,000 (for travelers aged 79 and younger)

Medical deductible: $0–$200

Medical expense maximum: $1 million for the lifetime of the plan

Evacuation maximum: $100,000 (separate from medical maximum)

How We Ranked the Top Travel Medical Insurance Companies

To rank the travel medical insurance companies featured in this article, we considered specific features and factors related to medical coverage. We first researched the emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation, pre-existing condition and COVID-19 coverage that each provider offers through standard travel insurance policies. We also took into account the standalone travel medical plans offered by each company, as some travel medical insurance plans do not include standard trip benefits. Finally, we considered data from our 2024 travel insurance survey of 1,000 participants with travel insurance.

While our rankings focus on the medical benefits and associated coverage limits that each company offers, we also considered our ratings for each provider based on our comprehensive travel insurance methodology. This includes factors such as cost, plan availability, company service and reviews and more.  

How Pre-Existing Conditions Affect International Health Insurance

Some travelers have pre-existing health conditions that could impact their travels. Life-long conditions such as asthma and diabetes or even a more recent diagnosis, such as high blood pressure, can affect your eligibility for international health insurance coverage.

A few providers will not offer travel medical insurance to people with pre-existing conditions to avoid responsibility for travelers with a greater risk of medical needs overseas. Most other companies ask you to sign a waiver before agreeing to cover potential medical bills related to recent or ongoing health issues. This waiver typically requires proof that you're medically able to travel, so expect to provide a letter from your physician stating so.

We encourage you to read through your policy's fine print to fully understand any requirements for travel coverage with pre-existing conditions. This way, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

ASK THE EXPERTS: Do you have tips for travelers with pre-existing conditions?

Heather Gibson, Ph.D. Chunhuei Chi, MPH, Sc.D.

"When traveling internationally,…

review your medical insurance before you go. What does it cover? Does it cover overseas emergencies? If not then you are advised to purchase travel insurance that includes medical coverage.

Take a copy of your prescription [medication] with you and pack your meds in your hand luggage. Customs may want to talk to you about them, plus if your luggage gets delayed you have your meds with you. Bring enough for the duration of your stay and a few days extra in case of emergency delays."

"If you have chronic conditions,…

please consult your physician before traveling abroad. You may need to bring extra prescription drugs or devices essential for maintaining health that are not easily accessible at your destination.

If you are traveling to a country with inadequate medical facilities, you may consider purchasing emergency medical evacuation insurance."

How To Purchase International Travel Health Insurance

Purchasing a travel health insurance plan is fairly straightforward across most providers, based on our experience. If you already know what you're most concerned about regarding coverage, you can purchase a plan quickly by following the steps below, which we've outlined using IMG's quote process.

Find Travel Medical Insurance Offerings

Most providers make it easy for you to navigate available coverage options. IMG breaks down its coverage online by type of insurance, with its travel medical insurance front and center on its drop-down menu.

Choose a Plan

IMG lists its most popular travel medical plans first, with additional plans located toward the bottom of the webpage. Each plan either has a description of travelers it would suit best or plan highlights. You can also download plan brochures and browse through plan details to help make your decision easier.

Provide your Trip Information

Travel medical insurance companies need your trip information to provide you with a quote. Companies will ask questions about your travel dates, destinations, total trip cost, number of travelers and more.

Compare The Medication Coverage

We recommend comparing quotes from multiple providers for similar levels of coverage before deciding on a travel medical policy. Some providers, such as IMG, also allow you to compare plans against each other, which can be helpful in the decision-making process.

Complete Your Purchase

Once you've decided on a plan, you may have to fill in some additional information to buy a policy, such as your home address, first trip payment date and more. Companies may also ask whether you'd like to purchase additional add-ons with your policy. You'll then provide a form of payment and complete your purchase.

While this guide details IMG's purchasing process, most travel medical insurance providers follow a similar process. Be sure to have your trip and traveler information on hand before beginning the buying process.

How To Use Travel Medical Insurance

Knowing how to use your travel health insurance policy before your trip can eliminate additional stress if you need emergency medical care for an accident or unexpected illness abroad. Each travel insurance provider has its own process for claims and reimbursement of medical expenses, but our research has shown that most methods are similar. Learn what to expect when you file a claim and receive reimbursement in the following sections.

Filing a Medical Claim with Travel Insurance

You'll likely file a travel medical insurance claim in one of two ways — through your provider's claims portal on its website or mobile app if available. Not every provider covered in this review has a mobile app, but we've found that Allianz, Seven Corners, GeoBlue and Faye do. We recommend filing your claim in the way that makes you most comfortable submitting documentation related to your medical care.

Once you file your claim, you'll wait to hear whether it's been approved or denied. Depending on the provider, this could take several days or even a week. If necessary, your insurer may ask for additional information before approval. Once your claim is approved, your travel medical insurance provider will reimburse you for covered expenses.

MarketWatch Guides Tip

Of the 37 respondents in our 2024 travel insurance survey who filed a travel insurance claim for a medical need, only one was denied due to pre-existing medical conditions. Most of those respondents were reimbursed $2,001 to $5,000.

Medical Claim Reimbursements

While it's common practice within the U.S. For medical facilities to bill your insurance provider directly, travel health insurance for international trips typically require that you pay for medical services abroad at the time of service. Then, your travel medical plan will reimburse the covered amount post-treatment. Based on our research, you can choose between receiving a check in the mail or a direct deposit.

Again, circumstances and procedures will vary by the travel insurance company, so reading the fine print of your policy documents is important. This will ensure you are fully informed about how reimbursement works with your chosen travel medical provider.

Example: Visitor Breaks Leg While Hiking in Spain

During a trip to Barcelona in Spain, John decided to take a day trek to Montserrat to hike up to the monastery and chapel at the top of the mountain. Due to the steep mountainside terrain, John slips and falls, breaking his leg. Because of his location, John needed emergency transport to the nearest hospital for evaluation.

To facilitate evacuation, John called his travel insurer's 24/7 emergency hotline and allowed the representative to arrange transportation. Once he arrived at the hospital, John received X-rays and treatment for a broken leg, amounting to around $20,000 U.S. Dollars. Our team estimated the following expenses using average cost profiles provided by the National Accident Helpline and Medjet. 

Medical Expense Cost Treatment for a broken leg $20,000 Medical evacuation and transportation $80,000 Total $100,000

Based on a sample travel medical policy with IMG, specifically the Patriot Platinum plan, John paid the following out-of-pocket after filling a travel medical insurance claim:

Travel Insurance Cost Coverage maximum $1 million Deductible $500 Policy cost $224 Total out-of-pocket costs $724

Because John chose IMG's Patriot Platinum travel medical policy, the treatments he needed while in the hospital were covered up to the maximum limit. In addition, the 24/7 assistance he received helped get him to a hospital within IMG's proprietary network of medical facilities that support direct billing arrangements. This minimized the upfront expenses John paid, allowing him to focus on his rest and recovery.

Is Travel Medical Insurance Worth It?

Travel medical coverage is worth considering if your domestic health insurance does not extend to injuries and illnesses sustained abroad. For example, a private health insurance plan might provide coverage overseas, but Medicaid usually will not.

It's also worth considering if you're concerned about a medical emergency abroad or plan on visiting an area with fewer healthcare resources. Travel medical insurance can offer worthwhile travel protection for medical emergencies and evacuations and can provide valuable peace of mind. Many providers also offer pre-existing health condition waivers and policies that cover extreme or adventure sports, allowing different types of travelers to purchase a plan that fits their needs.

MarketWatch Guides Tip

In our 2024 travel insurance survey of 1,000 participants, 97% of respondents felt that travel insurance is worth it, with 19% citing medical coverage as the main reason why.

Expert Insights and Tips

We asked three experts to share their insights about traveling abroad and medical emergencies. 

ASK THE EXPERTS: What should travelers with health risks consider when planning for a trip?

Heather Gibson, Ph.D. Lisa A. Gardner, Ph.D. Chunhuei Chi, MPH, Sc.D.

"Do some comparison shopping…

and base coverage on the types of medical conditions you have, where you are going and what you will be doing. For example, adventure sports require additional coverage.

When traveling keep your passport, insurance information, prescriptions and a credit card with you. You may also want to make copies and keep them in a separate place from the originals."

Heather Gibson, Ph.D.

Professor and Associate Director at the University of Florida

"As part of your travel planning,…

make yourself aware of local risks, the most serious of which may be health-related. The CDC provides information about health considerations for travelers through its 'Travelers' Health' website.

Also, be aware of your own health challenges and how those might be addressed in the locations you travel. Your [insurance] coverage should address the most serious of these risks. "

"If a person is traveling to countries…

with common infectious diseases, please check the CDC website which has helpful guidelines on whether and what vaccinations or prophylactic measures are highly recommended or required in the destination countries."

"Start of the expert quote…

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Frequently Asked Questions Travel Medical Insurance What is a security evacuation limit?

A security coverage limit is the amount a travel medical insurance plan will cover should you need to evacuate your destination due to political unrest, threats toward your well-being, war or natural disasters. Covered expenses include lodging, meals and transportation.

Does travel medical insurance cover visits to multiple countries?

Yes, travel medical insurance plans cover visits to multiple countries, so long as you specify which countries you will visit during the sign-up process.

Is there a cancellation fee with travel medical insurance plans?

Many travel medical insurance providers include a 10 to 15-day "free look period" where you can review a plan's terms and conditions. If you are unsatisfied with the specified terms, you can cancel for a full refund within that period. However, the company may charge a cancellation fee if you cancel outside the set timeframe.

Do credit cards offer travel medical insurance?

Some credit cards offer travel medical insurance as an included benefit, but this will depend on the card and company. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card offers travel coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions but no medical coverage. However, Chase's Sapphire Reserve card provides limited coverage for emergency medical care.

How We Rate Travel Medical Insurance Companies

Our team created a scoring system to assess travel insurance providers based on cost, coverage, quality and service. We also collect sample quotes from each company, both over the phone and on the internet, to simulate an authentic customer experience.

Here are the factors we take into consideration when reviewing providers, which we use as a scoring basis to then determine a five-star rating:

Cost (20%): To determine average travel insurance costs, we gather quotes from each travel insurance company based on several traveler profiles. Companies offering rates at or below our calculated average of $221 earn full points in this category. Specifically, we obtain quotes for the following trips:

A 30-year-old couple taking a $5,000 vacation to Mexico.

A family of four taking an $8,000 vacation to Mexico.

A 65-year-old couple taking a $7,000 vacation to the United Kingdom.

A 30-year-old couple taking a $7,000 trip to the United Kingdom.

A 19-year-old taking a $2,000 trip to France.

A 27-year-old couple taking a $1,200 trip to Greece.

A 51-year-old couple taking a $2,000 trip to Spain.

Coverage Details (15%): We review the baseline coverage each company offers in its cheapest comprehensive plan. A provider with robust travel protection earns full points, including coverage for baggage delay and loss, COVID-19, emergency evacuation and medical expenses, trip delays and cancellations, and more. Companies also receive points for featuring various add-ons such as accidental death and dismemberment, extreme sports, valuable items and more.

Claim Eligibility and Time Constraints (12%): Travel insurance providers enforce time constraints that outline when you can file a claim after a covered event. We give companies more points in this category for having shorter time limits for baggage and weather delays.

Cancellation and Interruption Coverage (12%): Our team reads through each company's coverage details and assigns points based on the coverage amount assigned to trip cancellations and interruptions. To earn full points in this category, a company must offer 100% or more coverage.

Customer Service and Reviews (12%): We look for indicators that a company is well-prepared to respond to customer needs. Companies with an established global resource network, 24/7 emergency hotline, mobile app, multiple ways to file a claim and concierge services score higher in this category. We assess reputation by evaluating consumer reviews and third-party financial strength and customer experience ratings, specifically from AM Best and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) Coverage (10%): Companies earn points in this category for offering CFAR coverage, which allows you to cancel a trip for reasons outside your policy. In addition to offering coverage, companies received higher scores for meeting or exceeding the standard offering of 75% reimbursement.

Delay Coverage Amount (10%): We also consider what a company offers for travel delays and baggage delays or loss, all of which can upend a trip. A company can earn 10% total between its travel and baggage delay coverage amounts.

Credit Rating (5%): Since credit ratings can help customers assess a company's ability to meet financial obligations, our team considers AM Best ratings when scoring providers.

Coverage Extras (4%): In addition to standard coverage, we also research how many add-ons a company offers, which can help customers customize their plan. Companies can earn full points in this category for offering eight common travel insurance add-ons.

For more information about how we rate and review providers, read our full travel insurance methodology.

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