Before you travel: Making the most of your health benefits on vacation
Planning an upcoming trip? Whether you’re heading a few provinces over or halfway around the world, knowing how your health benefits travel with you is essential. From emergency medical coverage to virtual care options, feel confident, prepared and protected every step of the way.
Understand the difference: Emergency vs routine care
One of the most common misconceptions about travel health benefits is that they cover all care equally. But while travel coverage includes emergency medical services like unexpected illnesses, injuries and hospitalizations, it does not typically cover routine or elective medical procedures (such as regular checkups or prescription refills). Knowing this distinction helps you plan ahead and avoid unexpected costs.
Emergency care includes:
- Sudden illness or injury
- Hospital stays and surgeries
- Ambulance and emergency transport
- Medically necessary repatriation
Routine care is not covered and includes:
- Pre-scheduled appointments
- Ongoing treatment for chronic conditions
- Non-urgent prescription refills
Before you leave, ensure you have enough medication and complete any routine care needs at home.
Confirm your travel insurance coverage before you leave
Your travel insurance may already be included in your group or individual benefits plan, but it’s always best to confirm. Here’s what to do:
- Review your benefits booklet or log into your Member Portal or app.
- Contact our Member Experience Centre to confirm if your travel coverage is active.
- If you’re planning a longer trip or have unique travel needs, consider purchasing additional coverage or a top-up policy.
You can also download and print your travel coverage confirmation letter, which is helpful if you’re required to show proof of insurance.
Travel essentials: What to carry
Don’t leave home without these key documents:
- Your Saskatchewan Blue Cross ID card
- A copy of your travel insurance confirmation
- Emergency contact numbers, including the 24/7 travel assistance hotline provided in your plan
- A list of any prescriptions or allergies
- A copy of your passport and itinerary, in case of emergency
Consider keeping both physical and digital copies of these items in a secure location during your travels.
Virtual Care while on vacation
Even when you’re far from home, care can be closer than you think. All Saskatchewan Blue Cross Personal Health Plans offer Virtual Care from Cleveland Clinic Canada. If you have a Group Plan, confirm your coverage details with your plan administrator.
Virtual Care services can help you connect with a medical professional for non-emergency concerns while in Canada.
Virtual Care can be used for:
- Minor illnesses like colds and rashes
- Prescription renewals
- General health questions
What to do in a medical emergency
In the event of a medical emergency while travelling:
- Seek care immediately at the nearest hospital or clinic.
- Contact Saskatchewan Blue Cross Travel Assistance Services as soon as possible. The contact number is on your ID card and in your app. Our team is available 24/7 to coordinate care, confirm coverage, and support your needs.
- Follow local medical advice and keep records of all treatments and expenses.
Fast communication with our travel assistance team is critical. It ensures smoother claims and better coordination of your care.
When you’re home: Reimbursement and claims tips
If you paid out-of-pocket for any covered services while away, you can submit a travel claim upon your return. To make the process easier:
- Gather original receipts, itemized bills and any medical records or discharge summaries.
- Complete the travel claim form available on our website or app.
- Submit your claim as soon as possible, ideally within 30 days of returning.
Some claims may require additional information or translations, so holding onto all documentation is important.
Travel confidently with Saskatchewan Blue Cross
Whether you’re off on a family vacation or traveling for business, peace of mind comes from knowing your health benefits are with you every step of the way. A little preparation before you go ensures you’re ready for anything, so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying the journey.