To help you with your medical emergency, below are a few of the most common questions answered.

Q: What do I need to know before I travel?

A. Click here to view and download an informational brochure that you can take with you on the trip. Some of the key points included are:

• What to do in the event of an emergency while traveling

• What documents you should take with you

• How to register your travel location with the Canadian Government

Q: What should I do and what will happen if I have to be hospitalized?

A: If you are able to, please contact us before seeking medical treatment. We can assist by providing a referral to the nearest medical facility with appropriate levels of care, and contacting them on your behalf in advance so they are prepared when you arrive. In the case of a medical emergency, contact our Emergency Assistance team (or have a family member contact us on your behalf) within 24 hours of being admitted. We’ll take care of the rest by:

• Confirming coverage with the medical facility

• Doing our best to ensure that you receive the necessary medical treatment

• Communicating with both treating and family physicians to determine eligibility as soon as possible

• Arranging billing procedures

• If required, arranging for air ambulance to return you to Canada

Q: Doesn't my credit card, homeowner's, or regular medical insurance policy provide coverage for me while I am travelling?

A: Always review the details of your primary travel insurance coverage before leaving home, and contact your travel insurance supplier if you have any questions about your coverage.

• Many credit cards and homeowner's insurance policies do not cover everything you require, such as coverage for specific types of emergencies or Trip Cancellation and Interruption.

• Both credit cards and homeowner's policies may provide limited coverage. Depending on the type of card you have or coverage you have selected, benefits may vary.

• Many health insurance plans do not provide payment directly to foreign hospitals, may have a deductible, and/or will not cover the cost of emergency medical transportation.

• Ensure you’re protected by reading and understanding the details of your travel insurance coverage before leaving home.

Q: Can I cancel my trip for any reason and get all my money back?

A: Not all reasons for trip cancellation are covered. If the travel insurance policy you’ve purchased includes Trip Cancellation coverage, your benefits should refund prepaid, nonrefundable trip payments or deposits if you have to cancel for a covered reason. Covered reasons may include: sudden and unforeseen medical emergencies, if your home is made uninhabitable by fire, flood, burglary, vandalism or natural disaster, hijacking or quarantine. Please read your policy terms and conditions to find out exactly what is covered.

Q: Are there events or medical conditions that are not covered?

A: Every insurance plan contains restrictions and exclusions. For more information, review the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy before leaving so you fully understand your coverage should a medical emergency arise.

Q: Will travel insurance cover me anywhere in the world? Are there certain countries where the benefits are limited?

A: Most travel insurance plans do not cover expenses related to travel in any countries for which the Canadian government has issued a Travel Warning in writing. For more information, review the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy before purchasing to ensure you will have coverage at your planned destination.

Q: Will I have to pay out of pocket for any medical expenses?

A: Whenever possible, Allianz Global Assistance will arrange billing with the health providers our members visit. However, international borders can sometimes limit our ability to do so. It is always a good idea to bring an extra reserve of funds in case any unexpected emergencies occur where advance payment is required.

Q: Why do I have to complete the provincial health claim forms when submitting a claim?

A: Travel insurance is designed to pay in excess of provincial health plans. As a service to our customers, Allianz Global Assistance has made arrangements with most provinces to pay claims first, and then submit your receipts and original bills to your provincial health plan for reimbursement. For the necessary claim forms, please call our office using the phone numbers on your travel insurance documents for further details.

Q: Why do I need to submit the original receipts?

A: The provincial health plans will only accept original receipts. Allianz Global Assistance will keep file copies and submit the originals to the provincial health plan offices. You should keep a file copy as well.