Frequently Asked Questions: Some examples of expected and unexpected expenses.

It's true, some international insurance plans only cover unexpected expenses. Most of the time, these plans are temporary (valid for no more than 12 months).

The definition of "unexpected expenses" can vary among insurers, so slight differences do exist. However, the following expenses usually apply:
- expenses that occur suddenly and independently of pre-existing medical conditions;
- expenses that must be incurred quickly and cannot wait until you return home, with your return date understood as the end date of your plan.

Below, we'll provide a few concrete examples of unexpected expenses. Please be advised that these examples are provided for informational purposes only.

Examples of expenses that qualify as "unexpected" and are therefore reimbursed:
- You sprain your ankle and can't walk, you go to the emergency room, you get some X-rays, and there is no fracture. The doctor prescribes anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. These expenses may be reimbursed.
- You have a fever for 48 hours and your condition does not improve, despite taking over-the-counter medicine. You go to the doctor for some tests, which reveal that you have a simple flu. These expenses are reimbursed.

Examples of expenses that qualify as "expected" and are therefore not reimbursed:
- Your knees hurt when you run, you are examined and found to have tendonitis, you are prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs. These expenses are not reimbursed.
- You have a fever for 48 hours and your condition does not improve, despite taking over-the-counter medicine. You go to the doctor for some basic viral tests. Without really specifying why, the doctor prescribes several more tests. These tests are not reimbursed.
- You are diagnosed with a herniated disc with 3 months left on your plan. If you decide to have surgery in the host country, the expenses will not be reimbursed as the insurer considers that you can wait 3 months before having such an operation.
- You are in a motorcycle accident and break your leg. You are taken to the emergency room and operated on your leg. These emergency expenses are reimbursed. If you need a second operation, it will not be reimbursed and will have to wait until you return to your country of origin.