May 30, 2012
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Q: What medical plan benefits are available when DePaul employees travel outside the United States?
A: DePaul’s BlueCross BlueShield medical plans cover accidents and medical emergencies when members travel internationally. The BlueCard Worldwide program, BlueCross BlueShield’s international coverage program, provides access to doctors and hospitals in nearly 200 countries and territories around the world.
In an emergency, individuals should find the nearest hospital or doctor. If time allows, the member should call the BlueCard Worldwide Service Center at 1-800-810-BLUE for assistance arranging a physician appointment or hospitalization, if necessary.
For care arranged through BlueCard Worldwide, members pay the provider the usual out-of-pocket expenses, such as deductible, copayment and coinsurance. Otherwise, members should pay up front for the treatment and submit the detailed billing and required receipts to BlueCross BlueShield for reimbursement.
Employees covered by HMO Illinois should keep in mind that medical care received while traveling outside the country is designated as “out of area” treatment. Similar to “out of area” claims made domestically, treatment will be covered by HMO Illinois when the appropriate diagnosis code is indicated on the claim form. Benefits for follow-up care are covered if the services were the result of an accident or medical emergency and the member is unable to return to his or her medical group for treatment.
Employees are strongly encouraged to contact Blue Cross Blue Shield prior to traveling internationally. The customer service representative can discuss how international claims are handled and paid. International claim forms and other helpful information can be found on the BlueCard Worldwide Program’s web site.