I am planning to travel to Costa Rica this summer. Will Medicare cover my costs if I become ill or injured while there?
Medicare Parts A (hospital) and B will not pay for health care outside of the U.S. and its territories. However, it may pay for inpatient hospital, doctor or ambulance services in Canada or Mexico.
Some Medicare supplement plans include foreign travel coverage. Check with your company to find out.
However, Costa Rica and other countries have very affordable temporary coverage for tourists. Check with your travel agent or on the country's health care page.
Allyson Good curates senior living, health, and family content. She is formerly the Managing Editor of Active Life, a print newspaper published in 2016-2017 for seniors, choosing practical articles on health, money, safety, and everyday living for older readers. She is also an avid gardener and offers up Garden Hints and Tips on a regular basis.