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JAPAN
Insurance
Most people will find it essential to take out a good travel insurance
policy, particularly one with comprehensive medical coverage, due
to the high cost of hospital treatment in Japan. A typical travel
insurance policy should also provide cover for the loss of baggage,
tickets and - up to a certain limit - cash or cheques, as well as
cancellation or curtailment of your journey.
Most policies exclude so-called dangerous sports unless an extra
premium is paid: in Japan this can mean scuba-diving, whitewater
rafting and bungee jumping, though probably not skiing and mountaineering.
Read the small print and benefits tables of prospective policies
carefully, as coverage can vary wildly for roughly similar premiums.
With many policies you can exclude coverage you don't need, but
for Japan you should definitely take medical coverage that includes
both hospital treatment and medical evacuation; be sure to ask for
the 24-hour medical emergency number. Keep all medical bills and,
if possible, contact the insurance company before making any major
outlay. Very few insurers will arrange on-the-spot payments in the
event of a major expense - you'll usually be reimbursed only after
going home.
When securing baggage cover , make sure that the per-article limit
- typically under £500 equivalent - will cover your most valuable
possession. If you have anything stolen, get a copy of the police
report ; otherwise you won't be able to claim. Always make a note
of the policy details and leave them with someone at home in case
you lose the original.
Before buying a policy, check that you're not already covered. Your
home insurance policy may cover your possessions against loss or
theft even when overseas, or you can extend cover through your household
contents insurer. Many bank and charge accounts include some form
of travel cover, and insurance is also sometimes included if you
pay for your trip with a credit card (though it usually only provides
medical or accident cover).
In North America , Canadian provincial health plans usually provide
some overseas medical coverage, although they are unlikely to pick
up the full tab in the event of a mishap. Holders of official student/teacher/youth
cards are entitled to meagre accident coverage and hospital in-patient
benefits. Students will often find that their student health coverage
extends during the vacations and for one term beyond the date of
last enrollment. |
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