Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the National Labor Office at Blue Cross and Blue Shield, and Lynn Pina, Chief Marketing Officer at GeoBlue, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the benefits of GeoBlue, the necessity of additional coverage when traveling abroad and how GeoBlue can assist union members and their families during their international travel plans this summer.
GeoBlue offers international coverage that extends Blue Cross and Blue Shield benefits beyond U.S. borders. Pina highlighted that GeoBlue provides access to healthcare systems worldwide, ensuring travelers receive necessary care without upfront payments. Using relationships with global providers, GeoBlue facilitates direct billing, alleviating financial burdens for travelers. This coverage is crucial, as 40 percent of travelers encounter medical issues abroad, ranging from minor ailments to serious emergencies.
Logue emphasized the importance of securing additional health insurance when traveling internationally, even if one already has domestic coverage. Many foreign healthcare systems require upfront payments from non-residents, which can be financially daunting. GeoBlue addresses this by offering plans that cover medical expenses and potential evacuations, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars. This additional coverage ensures travelers are not left vulnerable in unfamiliar healthcare environments.
GeoBlue provides a comprehensive mobile app to support travelers, featuring tools like medication equivalence and translation services. The app also includes a provider finder and country-specific alerts, enhancing the travel experience by offering critical information at travelers’ fingertips. Pina noted that GeoBlue's 24/7 customer support ensures assistance is always available, whether for finding the right provider or understanding coverage details. As union members prepare to take their families on vacations this summer, Logue and Pina added, they should check with their healthcare plan for more information on GeoBlue.
Listen to the full episode to learn more about how GeoBlue can safeguard union members’ international travel experiences.