Medicare for Snowbirds, Sunbirds, & Travel Enthusiasts

Individuals can only enroll in Medicare in one state — the state of their principal residence (i.e., where they vote, file taxes, and have a driver’s license). I get so many people asking do they have coverage when they travel. I thought it would be a great idea to break it down for you. 

Vacationers

Clients who like to take week-long trips a few times throughout the year should be fine enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan. You have urgent and emergent coverage when you’re traveling outside of your home network. You probably won’t need to see your doctor or fill any prescriptions while you’re away unless an emergency arises. In that case, you are covered. 

Snowbirds & Sunbirds

Those clients who spend months living at a secondary residence would benefit from the combination of Original Medicare and a Medicare Supplement plan with the stand-alone Part D. For those who are passionate about getting a Medicare Advantage plan. I suggest one with a regional or national network that will enable them to receive in-network coverage near their second home. Also, one that will allow them to pick up prescriptions while they are away. Medicare says you may go for up to 9 months out of the year before considering it a permanent residence change. 

Travel Enthusiasts

Original Medicare, a Medicare Supplement, and a Part D drug plan is the best route you can take for those who travel from state-to-state or adventure abroad. If you enjoy traveling outside the U.S., I suggest Medicare Supplement Plan(s) C, D, G, M, or N, which offer foreign travel emergency coverage. If you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan, you have worldwide coverage. You can always walk into an emergency room or urgent care facility to seek medical attention while traveling. Check with your plan before scheduling a doctor’s visit outside of your home network. 

In a 2009 study, Pew Research Center found 52 percent of people aged 65 or older reported enjoying more time to travel as a benefit of aging. By enrolling in a proper plan, you can enjoy your golden years knowing that if you need health care while you’re away, your Medicare coverage will help to pay.

Advocate & Advice

Need assistance with narrowing down the right plan for you. Give me a call. I’m still meeting over Zoom. Hopefully, as more people get the vaccine, I can get back to meeting in person. 

Finally, with the pandemic, not many people were planning trips or doing much traveling in 2020. Hopefully, as we get back to normal in the coming months, I hope you will reach out if you have questions about your plan or coverages. I’m your advocate. I get paid to help my clients, review options, research plans, and prepare to make recommendations.