What should be considered regarding insurance when taking elders to China?
Three things: Coverage amount, pre-existing conditions, high-altitude and activity exclusions. Coverage amount: The costs at international departments and private hospitals in China are close to those in Europe and the US. It is recommended that the medical coverage amount is no less than 500,000 RMB (or equivalent in foreign currency), and confirm that it includes emergency medical evacuation—this is the most important item, as evacuation costs in plateaus and mountainous areas can reach six figures. Pre-existing conditions: Elderly people often have chronic diseases. Be sure to report them truthfully and confirm whether they are covered, as many insurance policies do not cover treatments related to undisclosed pre-existing conditions. Exclusions: High-altitude (
Three things: Coverage amount, pre-existing conditions, high-altitude and activity exclusions. Coverage amount: The international departments and private hospitals in China have costs close to those in Europe and the US. It is recommended that the medical coverage be no less than 500,000 RMB (or equivalent foreign currency), and to ensure it includes emergency medical evacuation—this is the most important item, as evacuation costs in highlands and mountainous areas can reach six figures. Pre-existing conditions: Elders often have chronic illnesses; it is imperative to disclose them truthfully and confirm whether they are covered, as many policies do not reimburse treatment related to undisclosed pre-existing conditions. Exclusions: High altitude (usually above 3000 meters), mountaineering, and skiing are often listed as exclusions. For trips to Tibet, Daocheng Yading, or skiing trips, separate coverage needs to be added. Additionally, most overseas insurance policies require out-of-pocket payment in China before reimbursement, so be prepared with available payment limits and complete receipts and diagnostic proof.