Paying For Health Care Expenses After Age 65

[Boatman37210]

I live in the US and want to retire to Thailand in a couple of years. I am now 62. When I reach the age of 65 I will be covered under medicare for medical coverage. Problem is it is only good in the US. If I understand it correctly, medicare will not pay for treatments outside the US. I also have preexisting conditions and don't see how I can get other coverage.

The only two options I see are either to fly back to the US for treatment of any major problem or pay cash for treatment in Thailand in an emergency situation where there is no time to fly to the US. Minor problems I would pay cash for treatment in Thailand.

Does this pretty much sum up my options or is there another? Anyone in the forum retired from the US, 65 or older, and no other health coverage other than medicare? If so, how are you handling it?

I'm very much concerned about covering costs in an emergency situation where treatment is required in Thailand.

Thanks.

[Lefty]

I am a US citizen retired in Thailand and have Medicare and a suplimental policy. The options you stated are pretty much all there is. Paying for emergency treatment in Thailand is getting more expensive every year. When you get here check with govt/military hospitals for your emergency care, best you have in local bank/credit card reserve to pay for emergencies-one million baht would not be too much.

Lefty

[Sheryl]

Yes, at 65 and with pre-existing condition you are not going to be able to get a local policy.

If you currently have insurance in the US might look into whether or not you can continue it in some form that would provide coverage overseas.

You might also look around for policies that would cover you for medical evacuation only, back to the US. Traveler's insurance and the like do this but usually have a time limit. But there are I think some policies that will provide just emergency medevac. As that can cost a bundle.

Otherwise your options are as Lefty said and don't underestimate the costs, health care in Thailand is a lot more expensive than it used to be and costs are only going to increase.

[Godolphin]

^I, for one, marvel at how helpful and professional and generous you are in assisting people on this forum Sheryl.

You are really much appreciated by us out here in cyberland.