Does Medicare cover medical care while traveling abroad?
Rarely. Original Medicare generally does not cover health care you get outside the United States, with only narrow exceptions.
Reviewed by Brad S. · Licensed Florida Health Insurance Agent
Updated June 2026. Written and reviewed by a licensed agent at United Liberty Insurance Agency LLC to ensure accuracy. We cite official sources (HealthCare.gov, CMS, KFF) wherever possible.
What you need to know
- Original Medicare almost never pays for care received outside the U.S. and its territories.
- Several Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans — including C, D, F, G, M, and N — include limited foreign travel emergency coverage.
- Some Medicare Advantage plans offer worldwide emergency coverage; check the specific plan.
What this means for your wallet
If you travel or split time outside the U.S., this is a key reason to compare Medigap and Medicare Advantage options — we can help you find coverage that travels with you.
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Related coverage questions
Source: CMS Medicare Coverage Database (National Coverage Determinations) and Medicare.gov. Coverage rules can change and may vary by situation; this page is educational and not a guarantee of coverage. For official determinations, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.