Empire Plan coverage is available worldwide, primarily in the form of reimbursement. If Medicare is your primary insurance, you should be aware that Medicare does not provide coverage outside the United States (with a few exceptions).

If you require medical care while abroad, the American Embassy can usually provide names of reliable, English-speaking doctors. After receiving medical services, ask for copies of your medical records in English, if possible. Keep a receipt when you pay your bill. When you get home, submit the records to the appropriate Empire Plan administrator. The Plan administrators will reimburse you directly for covered expenses. If you are Medicare primary, remember that Medicare does not provide coverage outside the United States. If no other coverage is in effect, The Empire Plan is primary until you return.

The above paragraph was excerpted from the publication, On the Road with the Empire Plan. The publication  is a must read for all New York State retirees who travel out of New York, both in the United States and internationally.

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