Are you about to embark on a mission trip? You are not alone. More than 2 million U.S. citizens are expected to travel overseas in 2017 on missions or other social good trips.

For participants, these trips are not just a way for them to give back to the world, but also a way to gain a new perspective on their own lives and to achieve personal growth. These trips can also be very empowering. Participants often learn new skills and tackle projects that they normally would not attempt. 

Of course, traveling abroad on a mission trip does carry some risks. That’s why experts recommend you obtain mission trip insurance if the group you will be traveling with does not already provide it. 

Why Mission Trip Insurance is Essential 

Traditional health insurance policies may not cover you for medical treatment outside of the United States

If you already have a health insurance policy, contact your provider to see if your plan will cover the costs of any medical treatment you may require while you're out of the country. Many plans, including Medicare plans, do not. 

Other plans may only cover your care if you are treated at a medical facility within your provider’s network. Of course, that may not always be possible, especially if you will be performing your mission work in a developing country. Fortunately, medical insurance for missionaries is relatively inexpensive.

You May Require an Emergency Medical Evacuation During your Mission

You face many risks while traveling to developing countries. If you become seriously ill or injured, know that emergency medical evacuations could cost between $20,000 and $170,000 depending on how far you need to be transported and where you’re located. Look for mission trip insurance that provides coverage for an emergency medical evacuation to avoid these staggering costs, and to ensure you’re covered if you need emergency transportation to a qualified medical facility. 

You Could Require an Emergency Reunion

If you should become seriously ill or suffer an injury that leaves you hospitalized during your mission trip, you could require the assistance or company of a friend or family member. Depending on your policy, mission trip insurance could actually pay for the transportation and lodging of a loved one so they can be at your side during your treatment and recovery. This is known as an emergency reunion benefit. 

You Might Have a Dental Emergency

There’s no good time to encounter a dental emergency – and if you should face one while on your trip, you’ll need the necessary coverage for treatment. 

Some mission trip insurance policies provide coverage for dental emergencies, including treatment due to an accident or unexpected pain to your otherwise sound, natural teeth. This important coverage will provide you more peace of mind so you can focus on your mission work.

When choosing coverage, make sure you select mission trip insurance rather than a general travel insurance or travel medical insurance policy. Designed specifically to meet the needs of missionaries and those performing social good, mission trip insurance provides the short-term or long-term medical coverage you need, without the benefits you don’t.