Vacationing outside the country?

Here are some tips and things you should know before you go.

SmartHealth not only covers you in the United States, but it also covers emergency services out of the country. It is important to know what is covered, who to notify and what steps to take in the event you experience an emergency while traveling. You can also find additional coverage with many Ascension partners before you go.

Here are some tips and things you should know before you leave

  • Consider taking your passport, even if it's not required. Travel plans can change quickly and you may need to deboard a cruise ship or get stuck on a layover.
  • Make sure you have your Ascension SmartHealth identification card.
  • If you qualify for employer life insurance, MetLife may have some helpful benefits. Check your benefits on MyAscension.
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), an Ascension SmartHealth partner, may also be able to offer an individual Global plan or you can purchase other travel insurance with GeoBlue.
  • Check with your travel agent or booking site to see if they offer additional medical coverage.
  • Bookmark this page or print out the PDF below to take with you.

In the event you may need emergency medical care while out of the United States, you can prepare prior to departure by searching the BCBS website for hospitals located near your travel destination. Using in-network hospitals can save you from out-of-pocket costs.

If you experience an emergency outside of the United States:

1. Get medical attention immediately.
2. Call 800-810-BLUE (2583). Do not call the number on the back of your ID card. When calling:

Answer the questions

  • Ask to locate a doctor or facility
  • When asked if you are looking in the US, say no
Option 1 is for Global Core. BCBS will direct you to care and negotiate on your behalf
while you are out of the country. This is part of your plan and no additional fee.
Option 2 is for GeoBlue. This is a separate plan that can be purchased prior to traveling.

3. For additional assistance and to connect to your Ascension SmartHealth insurance, or for any authorization needs or claims assistance, please call 844-217-8191, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EST.
If after hours, leave a message with as much information as possible; including but not limited to the following:

Caller's name and phone number and/or email
Member name
Member date of birth

  • Member ID number
  • Where is the member currently located?
  • Name of facility
  • Family contact information: Names, phone numbers and/or email
  • What happened?
This will ensure we have the right information to help with payment authorization.

4. A SmartHealth nurse will call back by the next business day.

5. You may also contact SmartHealth customer service at
888-492-6811, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST for additional assistance.

 

Next steps

If you were required to pay for services, please call SmartHealth at 888-492-6811.

International products and services

Visit Blue Cross Blue Shield Global to learn more about their full range of international products and services available for purchase. View additional information about international coverage here. To contact BCBS about questions or coverage options, click here.