Long Term Travel Insurance (6mths) - Budget Direct Vs TID

Hi all,

Myself, husband and 2yo daughter will be travelling to El Salvador via USA for ~6mths Nov 17 -April 18. My husband is from El Salvador and I have lived there before, so we are familiar with the country, system etc, but this will be the first time travelling there with our 2 year old.

Looking at travel insurance options, I am placing the most importance on the health/medical coverage of policies, rather than cancellations/luggage etc as we will be in the one place for pretty much the whole time, and my main concern is the welfare of our daughter.

TID seems to be well regarded in the OzBargain community, and their comprehensive policy is ~$1200 (without coupon or cashback)

Budget Direct is ~$550

I have read through both PDS's (to the best of my ability!) and I actually see that BD is more generous in the medical/health allowances, for eg, BD repatriation is $20000, TID $12000; Hospital cash allowance - BD $75/day, TID $50/day; both topline Overseas Medical and Hospital Expenses are unlimited.

I could very well be missing something here!

Does anyone else have any experience comparing these two PDS docs or have personal experience with both in terms of claims process/willingness to pay out etc?

TIA!

Comments

  • I would look at their wording more closely, especially the medical side of things. What do both companies define as "reasonable" care. I had a quick look at TID's PDS with their definition of "reasonable" and they state "Reasonable means, for medical or dental expenses, the standard level of care given in the country you are in, including the use of the public health care system where there is a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement in place with the Government of Australia; for other expenses, the standard level you have booked for the rest of your trip; or as determined by us."
    Basically that's telling you that if you are in need of medical attention, TIDS will pay or reimburse you the equivalent level of hospital care you would get in El Salvador. I wouldn't know what El Salvador's standard of medical care is like, but food for thought.
    The other thing too I would highlight is any pre-existing medical conditions. Some travel insurance companies only look as far back as 90 days for pre-existing medical conditions, where some look beyond 2 years. Any means to get out of paying you out.

    • Thanks Discoteque - I'll have another look. The public hospital system can be questionable, so if we were in a position to choose a treatment avenue, we would choose the private system, so you're right, it may require a bit more clarification on what would be covered by the insurers. thanks

      • Covermore would be one to look at. Their idea of hospital care is Australian standards.

        • Thanks v. much - I'll take a look.

  • http://itrek.com.au/

    Can recommend on prices and actually making a claim.

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