International/Travel Medical Insurance for Traveling Outside the U.S.
CISI International Insurance—
Frequently Asked Questions
NOTE: If you have special insurance needs, or if you plan any personal travel before, during, or after the program, you are responsible for the coverage.
Does the insurance cover my routine medical/dental visits?
No, CISI does not cover routine preventative care visits. In order to minimize the need for on-site medical and dental expenses, we strongly encourage you to see a doctor and dentist prior to departure.
How are my medical costs covered by CISI?
You will pay up front for costs and then submit receipts to CISI for reimbursement later (reimbursement forms are included with the policy). Thus, we advise that you budget some money for medical situations while in-country. The University of Minnesota's international policy through CISI will only pay the foreign hospital directly for major medical situations. As with most insurance companies, CISI will need time to investigate the claim before paying it.
Why do I need CISI insurance through the U of M when my program already offers insurance or requires national insurance?
The University of Minnesota reviews insurance policies for their partner programs offered through the learning/study abroad offices. When the partner institution coverage has been determined to be comparable to the University's CISI insurance then the CISI requirement is waived. However, in many cases, the partner policies do not meet U of M minimums.
If I’m participating in a University co-sponsored program that includes international health insurance can I have my coverage reviewed in order to waive CISI coverage?
Unfortunately, the U of M can’t review every policy offered by programs students choose to participate on. However, we would be happy to help you understand the benefits offered by CISI to help you understand the importance of the coverage.
Can I cancel my U.S. health insurance since CISI will cover me while abroad?
No! CISI international health insurance coverage begins only when you leave the US and ends immediately upon your return to the US. We recommend that you retain your US health insurance, including hospitalization, even while overseas. This will cover you both before you leave and after you return from your program. Should you have an accident or illness overseas that requires long term care, you will have insurance upon your return to cover these expenses. You may find it difficult to purchase a health plan if you return with what the insurance companies consider a pre-existing condition.
Will my Student Health Benefit through the U of M automatically renew for my time abroad?
No, there is not registration mechanism that prompts renewal of your Student Health Benefit for your education abroad term. Contact the Student Health Benefits office on your respective campus if you have any questions, and to retain University student health insurance during your time abroad.
How do I use CISI while abroad?
While abroad you should carry your CISI insurance policy number and medical information concerning allergies, medications, blood type, immunization history, eyeglasses, or other prescriptions. A good place to keep this information is with a copy of your passport.
When you need medical care you will pay for the service and submit receipts for reimbursement using the form included with the policy. If the medical cost is high or the situation is an emergency, you or your representative can call Team Assist collect from outside the U.S. at (01-240)-330-1520 or email OPS@europassitance-usa.com to arrange direct payment to the hospital.