Are you confused about Medicare coverage on cruise ships?
If you’re planning a cruise, you’ll want to know the facts about Medicare coverage on cruise ships.
Here at Go Insurance we know that Aussies are an adventurous bunch. We like the wind in our hair and the sand in our toes. More and more, we also enjoy a luxurious adventure on board one of the numerous cruise shops that dock on our shores. Whether it’s a seven-night escape to the South Pacific or a quick sojourn from Sydney to Brisbane, the pull of the cruise ship and its plethora of onboard excitement is getting stronger with no sign of letting go. One of the most frequently asked questions is ‘what is the Medicare coverage on cruise ships?
Medicare coverage on cruise ships can be a little fickle. The shortest and most succinct answer is that if you need to visit the ship’s doctor, it’s unlikely that Medicare will foot any of the large bill you receive, even if you are only travelling in Australian waters. Medicare coverage on cruise ships is limited to situations where the doctor you see is registered to practice in Australia, has a provider number and you are in Australian waters. There is no requirement for a cruise ship to have an Australian registered doctor on board, often leaving passengers with a gap in cover if they do not have travel insurance.
Visiting a doctor on board for a bout of food poisoning can cost upwards of $300 but if you need to see the physician for a serious medical condition and require emergency disembarkation, your bills can quickly surpass $100,000; and this is where your travel insurance comes in.
Go Insurance is pleased to offer comprehensive cover for Medical Expenses on board cruise ships sailing in both Australian and international waters with an unlimited* cap on the cost of medications, doctors bills and emergency repatriation where required. We can even provide additional cover for formal wear, cabin confinement and missed shore visits when you include the optional cruise extension.
When purchasing your policy ensure that you have the correct region of cover – even if you are not leaving Australian waters, you will need the South Pacific region of cover. Get a quote today by clicking here or call one of our consultants on 1300 819 888.
* Unlimited Medical Expenses cover is for up to 12 months after the Accidental Bodily Injury or Illness first occurs whilst overseas during the Period of Insurance. Please refer to the PDS for full terms and conditions.