No one expects to get sick or injured while on vacation. But even with careful planning, medical emergencies can happen. Whether it’s food poisoning, a sprained ankle, or something more serious, getting medical care in another country can feel overwhelming. Language barriers, unfamiliar healthcare systems, and unexpected costs can add stress to an already difficult situation.
The good news is that if you have TuGo Emergency Medical Insurance, you are never alone. TuGo’s in-house Emergency Assistance team is available 24/7 to help with medical emergencies and trip interruptions, ensuring you get the care you need without unnecessary hassle. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do in a medical emergency while travelling.
Step 1: Seek Medical Help Immediately
Your health comes first. If you or a loved one is facing a medical emergency, act quickly:
- Call the local emergency number (e.g., 911 in the U.S., 112 in Europe, 000 in Australia).
- Go to the nearest hospital or clinic for urgent care.
- For minor issues, visit a local pharmacy or walk-in clinic for medical advice.
Reminder: In many cases, TuGo may be able to arrange direct payment with medical service providers like hospitals or clinics, so you don’t have to pay out of pocket while travelling. However, in some hospitals, direct billing isn’t always available, especially in destinations outside of North America, so it’s best to call ahead to confirm.
Need Virtual Medical Advice?
If you’re feeling unwell but don’t think a hospital or clinic visit is necessary, TuGo Telemedicine may be a convenient option. This service connects you with a medical professional who can assess your symptoms and recommend the best course of action—whether that’s at-home care, a prescription, or an in-person visit.
Step 2: Contact TuGo’s Emergency Assistance Team
Once you’re safe, contact TuGo’s 24/7 Emergency Assistance team for support. They can help with:
- Confirming your coverage and policy details.
- Finding a trusted hospital or clinic in your location.
- Arranging direct billing, when possible, so you don’t have to pay upfront or in other situations, advising you of the hospital’s billing process.
- Coordinating medical treatment and additional travel assistance if needed.
- Guiding you through the claim process, should you need to submit expenses later.
TuGo’s team is just a phone call away, ensuring you receive the right care without unnecessary delays.
Step 3: Keep TuGo’s Contact Information Handy
Before your trip, save these important details:
- Your Digital Coverage Card attached to your fulfillment email and also available to add to your Google or Apple Wallet
- The TuGo Wallet App, to get in touch with TuGo during an emergency
- Your Policy Confirmation Email (also includes emergency numbers)
- TuGo’s Website & Toll-Free Helpline
Step 4: Keep Your Medical Receipts and Documents
If you’ve paid for medical care out of pocket, submitting a claim is simple:
- Gather your claim form, receipts, medical reports, and supporting documents.
- Submit your claim via TuGo’s Medical Emergency Assistance page or myTuGo.
We’ve made the process easy so you can get reimbursed as quickly as possible.
Medical emergencies while travelling can be stressful, but knowing what to do and who to call can make all the difference. By keeping TuGo’s emergency assistance number handy, understanding your coverage, and acting quickly when needed, you can handle any unexpected situation with confidence.
TuGo is proudly Canadian owned and operated, and we’re here to ensure you receive the best possible care, no matter where your travels take you. With 24/7 multilingual support and seamless claims assistance, you’ll never have to face a medical emergency alone.
Happy travels,
Monique
