For many people taking out medical insurance, one of the most important benefits is that their policy includes cover should they need to be medically evacuated.

But what exactly is medical evacuation? And how does this life saving benefit work?

Often referred to as 'medivac', a medical evacuation is when a patient is moved from one location to another for emergency medical treatment. 
A medical evacuation will not be authorized if you break your leg and simply just want to get home. It is to transport you to a place where you can get treatment when it not available locally.

Should a medical evacuation be necessary, your insurer will make all the arrangements. If you need to be evacuated by air, this will often happen using an air ambulance, but this is not your typical corporate jet with comfortable seats and meal service. You will usually be strapped to a stretcher, and accompanied by the necessary medical professionals to ensure your condition is monitored during the flight.

These planes are usually small, so you might only be able to have a single travelling companion. And there usually is no room for more than the bare minimum of luggage - the more weight on the plane, the more fuel stops it requires and the longer it will take to get you to medical treatment.

Of course, medical evacuations only happen to other people. So, if the unexpected does happen and you experience a serious illness or injury away from home, a medical evacuation may be critical to ensure that you get to access to the best possible treatment.

Can you afford not to be insured? 

Medical evacuations are expensive - a typical air ambulance from Africa likely to cost anywhere between $50,000 and $180,000. Do you have that kind of money available at short notice?  

Making sure this benefit is included with your chosen medical insurance plan will cover those unexpected emergency transportation costs.

To find out more, call Bellwood Prestbury on +44 1242 584558 or visit www.bellwoodprestbury.com
 

Bellwood Prestbury Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (reference number 224721)