Medicare Travel Information: Where U.S. Seniors Can Use Medicare Abroad

When you’re on Medicare, the U.S. federal health insurance program for people 65 and older. Also known as Original Medicare, it’s designed to cover care within the United States—but many seniors wonder if it works overseas. The short answer? Medicare rarely pays for care outside the U.S. There are a few rare exceptions, like emergency care on a cruise ship or if you’re in Canada while traveling between Alaska and another state. But for most international trips, you’re on your own.

That’s why medical tourism, the practice of traveling abroad for affordable, high-quality medical care has grown so fast among seniors. Countries like Mexico, India, Thailand, and Costa Rica offer everything from joint replacements to heart procedures at a fraction of U.S. prices. But if you’re relying on Medicare coverage overseas, the limited scope of benefits available to beneficiaries while traveling, you need to know exactly what’s covered—and what isn’t. Most Medicare Advantage plans don’t cover international care either, unless it’s an emergency. Original Medicare won’t pay for routine checkups, prescriptions, or elective surgeries abroad.

So what do you do? Many travelers buy supplemental travel insurance that includes medical evacuation and emergency care. Others pay out-of-pocket for procedures abroad and save thousands. Some even move temporarily to countries with lower costs and better care, like Panama or Portugal, where expats get quality treatment for a fraction of U.S. prices. The key is planning ahead. You can’t just show up in Bali with your Medicare card and expect treatment. You need documentation, clear communication with providers, and proof of your medical needs.

If you’re considering travel for health reasons, you’re not alone. A growing number of U.S. seniors are using medical tourism to access treatments like hip replacements, dental work, or even weight-loss surgery that would cost $20,000+ at home. In places like India, the same surgery might cost $3,000, including travel and recovery. But safety matters. Not every foreign hospital meets U.S. standards. That’s why it’s critical to research facilities, check accreditations, and talk to others who’ve been there.

And don’t forget the paperwork. Some countries require proof of insurance, a doctor’s note, or even a visa for medical purposes. If you’re bringing prescription meds, you’ll need a medication passport, an official document listing all your prescriptions for international travel—something you can get from your doctor or pharmacy. Customs officials don’t care if you’ve been taking a drug for years; they care if it’s legal where you are.

This collection of posts covers everything you need to know before you go. From which countries actually accept U.S. Medicare (spoiler: very few), to how to handle prescriptions, emergency care, and recovery abroad. You’ll find real advice on costs, risks, and how to avoid scams. Whether you’re thinking about a short trip for a procedure or planning a longer stay for better care, these guides give you the facts—not the fluff.