Many foreigners traveling to the United States are awed by the advanced medical treatment available throughout the country. However, they may also be stunned by the high costs associated with even basic treatments for minor injuries and illnesses. If they wait until they are in the country and being treated, that sticker shock can be financially devastating to their bank account.

To prevent this sticker shock, anyone traveling to the US should purchase some form of visitor insurance prior to leaving home. These policies will include major medical coverage that will be accepted by most hospitals and treatment centers. Even those on a short trip to visit family or sight see need to be aware of both the risks of being injured or coming down with an illness and with what it will cost to get treatment at American clinics and emergency rooms.

Those who plan to be in the states for long-term study, work, or who are immigrating to the US definitely need to allocate funds for medical insurance. There are special plans for people who will be residing in the country for awhile. These will cover preventative medicine as well as existing conditions that need ongoing treatment. Family coverage is available for those who need it.