Hi

I float between UK and France and have been looking at medical costs abroad, I visited the isle of St Thomas a few years ago and been considering another visit (no idea if they come under USA rule in regards to health etc)
I read for my asthma inhalers in Spain it could be 2.50-10 euros, france 20 euros and the USA 300$ without insurance 80$ with insurance, is this true?
Also, what happens to those who cannot afford insurance and cannot afford meds?

 

We have cheap gas as compared to the UK and France.



As to your second question, you will still get medical care. I spent about 10 days in the hospital over a 6 month or so period. Rough total of the bills was approx $50,000 for the hospital stays. I told them I was self-pay and the charge was reduced by 80% to $10,000, of which I've worked out a payment plan of $500, but I plan on making more than that.
My prescription drugs are about $15 or so a month.
I recently spent 60 days in rehab at a cost of $75 per month and $3.00 a day (total of $330.00).

 

You can buy traveler's/visitor's insurance for medical costs in the U.S..

 

Cheers. Is this available at passport control or needed prior to travel?
Is St Thomas under the same setup as mainland USA?
Our last visit was via cruise ship/ day visit but thinking of a full stay there this time.

 

Fortunately do fewer miles to get anywhere so not so bad

 

Your own insurance may cover those costs-might want to check with them first.

 

Huh? Everyone in the USA has medical insurance. It's mandatory, thanks to the Congress.

-- Chuck

 

It's cheaper to pay the fine and not have insurance, so some people still don't have insurance. Somewhere around 9% of the population.

Also, I think his question is better phrased as "what happens to people who can't afford the meds." Significant debt, bankruptcy, death.

 

Tell me about it. I came close. In 1993 I only had my private health insurance as an independent consultant. The annual cap was $250K. Between the Illinois hospital, emergency transportation and surgery with a stay at the Cleveland Clinic, the final bill was $880K. Christmas was not so merry that year.

 

I would strongly suggest doing an Internet search, and would advise you to perhaps purchase it before you travel.