Will my travel insurance cover my hospital bills if I get sick or injured in the USA?

The Overseas Emergency Medical and Hospital Expenses Benefit can provide certain protection against the financial burden of unexpected medical emergencies that can happen on your overseas trip to the USA; from food poisoning, treatment for a broken bone or emergency surgery for appendicitis. Medical expenses including hospitalisation, doctor’s consultations, and even prescription medication can be covered if your medical emergency is covered under your policy. However, it's important to keep in mind that cover isn’t available for all medical expenses, and some of these include (but is not limited to):  

  • medical emergencies related to your existing medical conditions which aren’t listed as covered on your certificate of insurance,  
  • elective surgery,  
  • routine medical or dental check-ups, injuries sustained from your participation in some sport or leisure activities or snow sports unless you’ve purchased additional cover for them, and  
  • your medical expenses once you’ve returned to Australia, 

so it’s essential to review your policy to understand what is and isn't covered while you're in the US and the terms and conditions that apply.  

You can apply for cover for your existing medical conditions and any changes in health and/or new medical conditions you may develop between the time you purchase your policy and the date you depart on your trip to the US through a medical screening. Find out more about what we consider to be a medical condition and how you can apply for cover in our Travel Insurance for existing Medical Conditions page.  

As each individual’s circumstances are different, we will assess each claim on a case by case basis and in accordance with your specific circumstances, policy terms and Certificate of Insurance.   

Any advice is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the PDS as eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits apply.