Debunking Medical Evacuation Myths: New Study Gives Travelers Clarity

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (August 21, 2008) - Travelers buy medical evacuation coverage for peace of mind and financial protection, but a study released by the US Travel Insurance Association suggests if the travelers are not aware of the fine print, they may be buying a false sense of security. The recent survey on sources of travel insurance and assistance prepared by Avalon Actuarial on behalf of the United States Travel Insurance Association found that most domestic health care plans do not cover out-of-country emergency medical transportation and the only credit card reviewed that provided medical transportation and evacuation carried a high annualfee.

"One of the first things people tell us when we explain our product is 'I think I have that with my credit card,'" said Sam Jackson, president of Air Ambulance Card, LLC, a medical evacuation membership program. "The next thing they say is, 'I already buy travel insurance.'" In fact, Jackson explains, credit card policies often include "nearest appropriate facility" and "medical necessity" clauses, meaning the company, not the patient and their doctor, decide if they will be transported home. While the USTIA study points out comprehensive travel insurance policies cover medical evacuation, Jackson suggests buyers read the fine print, as these policies often contain the same exclusions and conditions. Air Ambulance Card memberships have none of these clauses, and no pre-existing condition limitation.

Air Ambulance Card provides travelers with prepaid hospital-to-hospital air ambulance service, domestically and abroad. The membership program offers services for a period of one year to families or individuals, and under corporate accounts. Air Ambulance Card memberships are available to residents of the U.S. and Canada and cost $195 per year for individuals and $295 per year for families. For more information visit www.AirAmbulanceCard.com.