Claims

Pack Some Peace of Mind: Why Your Employees Need Trustworthy Travel Insurance in Critical Moments

    Imagine being on a dream cruise with your loved ones, exploring picturesque ports and creating lasting memories.

    But then, out of nowhere, your youngest family member experiences a medical emergency.

    That's exactly what happened to one family who thought they were prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.

    While the ship was docked at port, their child fell ill and was rushed to the nearest hospital on the mainland because the limited staff at the port couldn't provide the necessary care.

    It turned out their child needed surgery due to suddenly swollen tonsils. By the time they arrived at the ER, their child was having difficulty breathing and needed to be treated by an Ears, Nose and Throat (ENT) surgeon. The facility lacked the necessary resources and expertise to perform the operation immediately.

    Orion Travel Assistance team stepped in and arranged for an air ambulance with medical escort to fly the whole family back to Canada for surgery.

    The total claim cost was more than $54,000 CAD.

    Fortunately, they had sufficient travel insurance coverage. Their Emergency Medical Insurance not only covered the costs of medical repatriation back to Canada but also covered medical bills incurred on the cruise and at the destination's emergency room.

    A recent Orion survey of travelers under age 65, highlights an 19% increase of respondents who rely on their employee benefits or credit cards for travel insurance (compared to 2017). However, many are unaware of the hidden exclusions and lifetime limits that can leave them vulnerable during times of need.

    This incident serves as a poignant reminder to all of us:

    For Families: Merely having travel insurance is not enough. It is vital to understand the coverage your insurance provides. Medical emergencies can happen unexpectedly, even something as common as tonsillitis in a child. Never assume that your insurance offers full coverage; always check for hidden exclusions and lifetime limits.

    For Employers: Including comprehensive travel insurance coverage as part of your employee benefits package plays a pivotal role. By providing your employees with this protection, you not only offer peace of mind but also shield them from unforeseen financial burdens in case of emergencies.

    For Brokers: Offering travel insurance presents an opportunity to differentiate yourself and ensure your clients have access to the most robust and comprehensive options available.

    At Orion Travel Insurance, part of CAA family, our mission is crystal clear: to provide comprehensive coverage without any unwelcome surprises.