Peace of Mind: What Insurance Will You Need for Volunteer Work Overseas

When you're planning a volunteer services trip abroad, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the here and now--your passion for the particular cause you're supporting, essential details like what to pack and where to sleep, and how to raise the funds you need to get there. With so much on your mind, it's no wonder many potential volunteers fail to contemplate more mundane aspects--like insurance.

While it may seem like a tedious and (hopefully) unnecessary thing to consider, your medical insurance coverage should be high on your list of checklist priorities before embarking on volunteer travel abroad. Many overseas volunteers assume that if they have an insurance policy in the United States, their card will be valid wherever they go, but that's not usually the case. In the event that you are stricken with a sudden illness or medical emergency and need to visit a doctor or hospital while volunteering or studying abroad, most local policies don't cover treatment. Although many foreign hospitals will admit and treat an ill or injured American, they won't authorize discharge until all balances are settled.

Before departure, be sure to contact a local agent to see if your medical insurance policy is effective outside the country. If not, you may need to open a supplemental travel policy to cover you in the event of a medical emergency during your volunteer work. You'll also need to make sure it covers any evacuation fees necessary to transport you quickly back to the United States and to the medical facility of your choice in the event of a catastrophe.

Although it may be tempting to forgo the travel insurance in favor of more immediate needs, especially when you're operating on a tight budget, a supplemental policy should not be regarded as a luxury when volunteering abroad. If you're working with a volunteer program to plan your trip, they should be able to assist you with opening a policy. If not, you can contact an insurance agency directly and inquire about their travel insurance programs. The ensuing peace of mind will be worth every penny.

About the Author

Mark is the editor of various articles about volunteering abroad for http://www.travel2help.org whose main focus is to provide assistance for developing countries through the creation of volunteer opportunities abroad.