FAQ MEDEX

How do members access MedEx?

Members simply call a toll-free number provided on their membership card. If a toll-free number is not available from within the country to which the member is traveling, they can call MedEx collect on a number provided in the membership kit.

When do members utilize the services?

MedEx is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Many times people are under the impression that the services are used only in serious cases. Be assured that MedEx is there to help with any type of illness or injury, regardless of the severity.

Is there a part of the world where MedEx cannot provide services?

No. MedEx services extend worldwide.

How many cases does MedEx handle a year?

MedEx manages approximately 30,000 cases per year in virtually every country of the world; of which, approximately one half are emergency medical cases.

How does MedEx help locate appropriate medical care?

MedEx has a global network of over 40,000 international providers. The network contains hospitals, clinics and physicians, as well as other providers geared uniquely to the travel insurance industry, such as air ambulances, house call physicians and medical escorts. MedEx has rigorous credentialing and re-credentialing standards. MedEx members are provided referrals based on the medical specialty needed, location, language, office hours, training, etc.

Does MedEx require that members go to specific hospitals, doctors, or clinics?

In order to reap the full benefits of our service, we strongly recommend that members contact Travel Assist before entering hospitals so that we can refer them to facilities that we have previously worked with. MedEx refers its members to the best providers in the area. If our members go to other providers, MedEx cannot be certain of the level of treatment. However, MedEx will provide the same assistance services regardless of where the members are treated.

What happens in the event of a hospitalization?

It is important that MedEx is notified as soon as possible. MedEx will then monitor the members care and work through the complex details of foreign hospitalizations. MedEx will immediately speak with the treating doctor to assess the member’s condition, treatment plans and whether or not an evacuation is necessary. MedEx will update member’s family, employer and personal physician as appropriate. In addition, MedEx will coordinate all insurance verifications and admission details.

How does MedEx facilitate hospital admissions?

MedEx will coordinate all billing and insurance verifications, including settling any guarantees of payment. This ensures that there is no delay or denial of medical treatment because a member is unable to make the up-front payment or because a member's insurance is not recognized.

What if the local facilities are not capable of providing treatment?

In evaluating the local facilities, MedEx considers such factors as the quality of the blood supply, medical technology and specialties available, use of sterile equipment and the patient's medical requirements. If facilities are inadequate, the MedEx Regional Medical Advisor will report on the safety of such and evacuation, any medical needs the patient may require en route and the evacuation plan details. MedEx will consult with all parties involved and fully manage the issues surrounding the evacuation.

Once a member is released from the hospital, do the services end?

MedEx assists with a member's case until they have returned home or have received final treatment.