Employees and their eligible dependents affected by the coronavirus can expect their Out-of-Country Medical Emergency, Travel Assistance and Disability claims to be handled on a case-by-case basis, based on plan coverage.
NOTE: Insurance companies differ in the limitations and exclusion clauses included in the fine print of their benefit contracts:
Most contracts are treating illness due to the Coronavirus as any other medical emergency, meaning there are no exclusions because an individual has travelled to an affected country. Some policies, however, exclude coverage for expenses incurred for a medical condition contracted in a region where the Government of Canada has issued a travel advisory indicating that you should “avoid all travel” or “avoid non-essential travel”
Regardless of your destination, before heading outside of Canada, you should be familiar with your plan’s coverage. For the latest information regarding the coronavirus we encourage plan sponsors and plan members to view the Government of Canada’s website:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus.html
Know what to do if you or an eligible dependent has a medical emergency:
Call the travel assistance provider number on your card immediately BEFORE seeking medical treatment;
If that isn’t possible, call as soon as you can so that you avoid issues with coverage of medical costs.
Travel assistance generally includes 24/7 access to travel support representatives. You get access to a coordinator who can recommend a healthcare facility, keep your doctor in Canada informed of your progress, as well as make travel arrangements for you when you’ve experienced a medical emergency while outside of Canada.
If you must travel, we encourage you to call your insurer to confirm the region you are travelling does not fall under the government of Canada’s Travel Advisory