practical tips for travellers

medical care, vaccinations & insurance

 

Planning your trip to the United States will probably not include hospitalization. Be sure that potential medical expenses are properly covered before you leave your home. Read this section attentively.

 

Medical care & vaccinations

If you are in an accident or get sick, call your insurance company (and car rental company) as soon as possible. You could also contact your embassy or consulate located in several major American cities (list of consulates and embassies).

If you use prescription drugs, it is best to carry an extra supply. You may also ask your doctor to write out a prescription for the composition of your medications, not the brand name. Brand names often vary from country to country. You can buy prescription drugs from licensed pharmacies or drugstores.

Vaccinations: None are required.

 

Insurance

Visitors should obtain international medical insurance before travelling to the United States. Health insurance is not universal and medical treatment is costly. A simple visit to the doctor can set you back $50 or more depending on the locality. There are many companies that can insure you. Ask your insurance company or your travel agency. You can also purchase property insurance to cover your valuables.

If you are renting a car you must carry insurance coverage. The Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) covers against loss, damage and theft of the car, the Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS), covers in an accident and against liability suits, the Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), covers medical treatment after an accident and the Personal Effects Coverage (PEC), covers belongings in the car.

The last two are not necessary if you have already bought an insurance before you left. (You can call the agencies listed in the 'RV and Car rentals' section of this booklet for more information)

 

 

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