A lump sum benefit due to the insured or a beneficiary in the case of an accidental death or loss of a limb.

The person chosen to receive the insurance benefits in the case of the insured's death.

This is the part of the medical bills the insured is responsible for once the deductible or excess is met.

Sometimes referred to as Policy Conditions , this is the official document that outlines the policy terms and conditions.

Sometimes referred to as Excess, this is the amount the insured needs to pay before the benefit begins. Depending on the policy, this may be calculated annually, per certificate period or per claim.

Type of insurance that covers transportation to a qualified place of treatment or the insured's home country in the case of serious illness or injury. In most cases, coverage will include the cost of transportation and accommodations for the insured's companion.

Sometimes referred to as a Deductible, this is the amount the insured needs to pay before the benefit begins. Depending on the policy, this may be calculated annually, per certificate period or per claim.

an illness or condition not covered by the insurance policy. The exclusions section is arguably the most important part of the policy and must be reviewed carefully.

An insurer's guarantee that the insured will be renewed annually regardless of age or claims history.

Coverage for medical claims resulting from hazardous sports and activities, such as scuba diving, motorcycling or mountain climbing. If one is planning a sporting trip, be sure to apply for a policy covering such activities. Most travel medical plans will offer optional coverage for high risk activities at a modest premium.

The maximum amount that can be claimed by the insured. Depending on the policy, this amount may be applied annually, during the lifetime of the insured, per certificate period (in the case of travel medical insurance) or per claim.

Sometimes refer to as Certificate of Insurance, this is the official document that outlines the policy terms and conditions.

This is a medical condition that manifested, was diagnosed or treated prior to the insured's application for coverage. Depending on its underwriting criteria, the insurer will either include or exclude the pre-existing condition from coverage, or reject the applicant altogether. If the insurer opts to cover the pre-existing condition, it usually has three options: a) include the condition normally if it is not considered severe; b) apply a surcharge premium if the condition is considered moderate; c) apply limited coverage for the pre-existing condition after a specified waiting period.

This refers to the amount the insured is required to pay periodically to the insurance company in order to be eligible for coverage. Typical terms are per trip in the case of travel medical insurance, or annually, semi-annually or quarterly for long term international medical insurance.

This is an optional feature in some long term international medical insurance policies which pays a lump sum benefit to the beneficiary of the insured in case of death.

A plan designed to cover the shortfall in benefits from an existing scheme.

The waiting period some insurers will apply before coverage commences for certain conditions, such as pregnancy.