Are you planning to travel outside the U.S.? Whether work sends you abroad or you travel for fun, the key is to be prepared. Before you travel, learn about your international health insurance options in case you need care while you’re away.

Coverage Options

Whether you have health coverage through an employer or an individually purchased plan, you have options for coverage when you’re traveling outside the U.S.

If you have a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois plan through your job, you may have Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core.  Log in to your Blue Access for Members^SM account or talk to your benefits administrator to find out if you have Global Core.

Global Core allows you to use your medical coverage outside the U.S. Note that providers outside the U.S. may not be set up to handle copays and deductibles at the time of service. You may have to pay full costs up front and submit a claim when you return to the U.S. Also, your plan may not cover all costs for care you receive outside the U.S., such as medical evacuation.

Whether or not your plan offers Global Core, GeoBlue^® travel medical plans may be an option for you. These plans cover illnesses, injuries and medical emergencies abroad for people up to age 95, even if they aren’t a member of a BCBSIL plan.

Tips for Travel Outside of the U.S.

1. Check your international benefits with your plan before leaving the United States. Benefits may be different outside the country.
2. Talk to your independent, authorized agent or broker or visit our GeoBlue page to compare plans and see what best fits your travel needs.
3. Review guidance from the U.S. State Department  on travel restrictions, alerts and other important details.

No matter where you go, be sure to carry your member ID card. 

Originally published 7/28/2015; Revised 2017, 2021, 2023, 2024