Many feel a false sense of security when they travel abroad thinking that their medical insurance will cover them in another county and in a large part, most larger group plans will contribute a good part to the treatment in a foreign county. Other plans may only contribute a percentage and like all insurance you must read your policy to get the real information on the benefits. If you are on Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid programs there is no coverage for hospital or medical costs incurred outside the United States.

The real problem is if you are in Guatemala and sick and the doctors have no idea what is wrong with you. Do you wish to be treated in a foreign hospital with at best 1970 technology or do you want to be sent home to Miami to one of the greatest medical centers in the world.

Medical evacuation to the U.S.( also known as medical repatriation) can cost more than $50,000. And is NOT covered by any standard group or individual major medical policy. Preparing for your trip should not only include sun tan lotion but it is a good idea to make a medical checklist of the things that must be handled before leaving on a trip abroad. Set up an appointment with your doctor 4 to 6 weeks before your trip.

Let your doctor know where you are going. He or she knows your medical condition and may administer additional therapies. Your doctor may suggest making a list of items that would be necessary on a trip; use these items to assemble a travelers' health kit. Your primary goal is to stay healthy, obviously, but it doesn't hurt to be prepared to treat common travel illnesses.

Ask your doctor what should pack ,your prescription medications, an antibiotic to self-treat diarrhea, which is a very common travel illness. In addition, bring an over-the-counter medication to prevent diarrhea, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

And don't for get to wash your hands. Small containers of anti bacterial gel at least 1 for each of the family is an absolute must since hand washing is of utmost importance and is the easiest ways to reduce infectious disease transmission during travel is to wash your hands carefully and frequently.