Today’s topic is “Emergency Evacuation Benefit”, which differs from “Emergency Transportation” you can find in most Travel Insurance products.
“Emergency Transportation” benefit in Travel Insurance is for emergencies from covered sickensss or injuries. The insurer will pay the cost of transportation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or to a Canadian hospital, when medically necessary and pre-approved by the insurer.
The costs includes land/sea/air ambulance, stretcher, and/or medical attendant(benefits varies by insurer).
Meanwhile, “Emergency Evacuation Benefit” responds when the Government(*) issues a travel warning to your destination for natural disaster or civil emergency. The cost of transportation to the nearest county of safety or to policy holder’s Home Country will be on the insurer’s shoulders. The most important thing here is this is only the case when the warning issued after your departure. Moreover, pre-approval by the insurer is required, the amount paid is limited and determination of the country to be evacuated to be determined by the insurer.
(*) Please refer to your policy wording to clarify with whom the insurance company complies.
On April 25, 2015, a strong magnitude earthquake shook Nepal. Our partner Allianz Global Assistance(formerly TIC) organized the evacuation and repatriation of 55 travelers, including 14 Canadians, from Kathmandu.(1) Although a lot of conditions apply to “Emergency Evacuation Benefit”, it’s worth to consider if you travel for a long period or to the area of safety concern.
Lastly, please note that not every travel insurance lists this kind of benefit. If you’re interested in, please contact: info@biis.ca
(1) Travel Agent Central
http://www.travelagentcentral.com/nepal/allianz-global-assistance-sends-relief-team-nepal-51234