Within Canada as well, medical procedures can be prohibitively expensive if you are not properly covered. Each province in Canada provides a limited amount of coverage for out-of-province and out-of country medical costs for its residents. (If you are a resident of British Columbia, you are eligible for up to $75 CAD. per day for in-patient hospital care. When you consider that a day’s admission to a US hospital typically exceeds $2,500 CAD. and a day in intensive care averages $10,000, you can appreciate that this coverage is inadequate.)

Accidents can happen while doing just about anything, and no matter how fit you are—as Jacob, a 78-year-old athlete from British Columbia, found out on a recent trip to Florida. While turning round to help his wife sit down for dinner, Jacob’s hand slipped from the arm of his chair, causing a back injury.

Jacob was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital where an orthopedic surgeon and nursing staff oversaw his diagnosis, treatment and recovery. During these processes, Jacob underwent CT scans, MRIs and other tests for fractures. Aside from a minor sprain and back pain, Jacob did not have any fractured bones and did not require surgery.

After five days of rest and tests, Jacob was well enough to go home—but not without a $26,000 CAD hospital bill. Fortunately, Jacob’s foresight in purchasing adequate travel insurance helped cushion his restaurant mishap. Jacob’s claim was completely covered, leaving his personal finances intact.

Whether it’s a trip to Florida, France or simply an interprovincial road trip, adequate travel insurance will protect against the unexpected, giving you the peace of mind to enjoy your vacation. To determine what insurance coverage you need, call 1-800-681-6677 to speak to a London Drugs insurance agent, or visit www.londondrugs.com for a list of stores that provide
insurance services.