Travelling overseas alone, or even as a couple, can be quite intimidating, especially if you encounter a medical emergency of serious nature. Even if you are covered for emergency medical evacuation and have good travel insurance, you would be better off returning to your home country for better treatment and aftercare. Air ambulances become a necessity in these cases. If you are a citizen of the United States, you can expect some help from the US Consulate in this regard.
How Can the Consulate Help You with Air Ambulances?
The consulate will assist you in locating an air ambulance that is best suited for your medical evacuation. You can even request that your friends and family be informed if doing that is tough for you given the circumstances. This will give your loved ones enough time to arrange for finances and take care of other aspects on your arrival.
You can always visit the US Passports and International Travel website to view the list of medical evacuation companies. The same website also lists the US as well as overseas travel and medical insurance companies.
Consulate does not Cover Cost of Air Ambulances
Keep in mind that the consulate merely acts as a facilitator and any expense will still have to be borne by you, your family, your insurance or any other type of coverage that you might have opted for. Keep in mind that your domestic insurance carrier will not cover you when you are abroad, if you have not purchased a cover that specifically states that a medical evacuation will be covered.
The website of the US Passports and International Travel specifically mentions that it assumes no liability or responsibility of any kind. The companies that provide air ambulances are merely listed for the convenience of international travellers. However, finding links to information about air ambulance companies and insurance providers becomes easy when you refer to this website.
