Atlas America vs. Atlas International: Which Is the Right Choice for Your US Trip? 

Planning a trip to the United States is an exciting endeavor, but ensuring you have the right visitor insurance is equally important. Two popular options for travelers coming to the US are the “Atlas America” and “Atlas International” insurance plans. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare these two plans. 

Table of Contents: 

• Introduction
• Atlas America: An Overview 
• Atlas International: An Overview 
• About WorldTrips 
• A Quick Comparison Between Two Plans 
• FAQs 
• Conclusion 

Introduction 

Before embarking on your journey to the US, it is crucial to have proper visitor insurance in place. Visitor insurance provides financial protection in case of unexpected medical emergencies, travel mishaps, or other unforeseen events during your stay in the US. 

Two well-regarded options for visitor insurance plans are the “Atlas America” and “Atlas International” plans offered by Tokio Marine HCC Medical Insurance Services Group (HCCMIS). Both plans offer valuable coverage, but they cater to unique needs and situations. 

Atlas America: An Overview 

Atlas America plan is designed to protect travelers from unexpected medical mishaps during their visit to the US. The policy is ideal for non-US citizens and residents traveling outside their home country and coming to the US for a brief stay. 

It offers coverage for in-patient as well as out-patient visits, medical illnesses, emergency medical treatment, political evacuation, repatriation of remains, trip interruption, baggage, accidental death and dismemberment, acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and more. 

The plan highlights: 

• Choices of policy maximum- $50,000, $100,000, $250,000, $500,000, $1,000,000, or $2,000,000. 
• Choices of deductibles- $0, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500, or $5,000. 
• Covers acute onset of non-chronic pre-existing condition. 
• In network, plan pays 100% up to policy maximum per year. 
• Hospital and doctor coverage up to the chosen policy maximum. 
• Dental emergency up to $300. 
• Pregnancy complications covered up to the first 26 weeks. 
• Emergency medical evacuation up to $100,000. 

Atlas International- An Overview 

Atlas International is another robust insurance plan that protects travelers from accidents and unforeseen medical events during their travel outside the US. The plan is ideal for non-US and US citizens traveling outside  their country of residence and outside the US. 

The plan provides access to quality healthcare, eligible expenses for COVID-19, medical evacuation, emergency medical and travel benefits, travel assistance, and others while visitors explore the world. 

The plan highlights: 

• Choice of deductibles- $0, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500, $5,000 per certificate period. 
• Choice of policy maximum (varies by age)- $50,000, $100,000, $250,000, $500,000, $1,000,000, or $2,000,000. 
• 100% coinsurance paid up to the maximum limit. 
• No copayment outside the US. 
• Covers acute onset of the pre-existing condition. 
• Emergency medical evacuation up to $1,000,000. 
• Emergency dental up to $300. 

WorldTrips: The Insurance Provider 

Established in 1998, WorldTrips emerged as a pioneering insurance provider by offering its plans and services online, marking a significant milestone in the industry. As a proud member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies, it has since become a trusted name in travel, medical, and trip cancellation insurance, catering to individuals, groups, families, and businesses worldwide. 

For over two decades, the company has remained dedicated to mitigating the impact of unforeseen medical emergencies and travel mishaps for travelers. Their comprehensive insurance plans grant access to quality healthcare, expert guidance, and round-the-clock emergency travel assistance, ensuring a smoother experience during unexpected events. 

A Quick Comparison Between Two Plans

Plan	Atlas America	Atlas International
Features:
Type	Comprehensive	Comprehensive
Ideal for	Non-US citizens	US and non-US Citizens
Coverage area	The US	Outside the US
Underwriter	Llyod’s	Llyod’s
PPO Network	First Health Network	There is no preferred organization (PPO) outside the U.S. You may visit any provider you choose.
Policy Maximum	$50,000, $100,000, $250,000, $500,000, $1,000,000, or $2,000,000	$50,000, $100,000, $250,000, $500,000, $1,000,000, or $2,000,000
Deductible	$0, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500, $5,000 per certificate period	$0, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500, $5,000 per certificate period
Coinsurance	100% in-network	100%
Benefits:
Hospital Room and Board	Average semi-private room rate, including nursing services.	Average semi-private room rate, including nursing services.
Acute onset of Pre-existing condition	Covered for non-chronic pre-existing conditions as defined in the certifcate.	Covered for non-chronic pre-existing conditions as defined in the certificate.
Emergency dental	$300	$300
Emergency Eye Exam for a covered loss	Up to $150. $50 deductible per occurrence.	Up to $150. $50 deductible per occurrence.
Medical evacuation	Up to $1,000,000 lifetime maximum	Up to $1,000,000 lifetime maximum
Repatriation of Remains	Equal to the elected overall maximum limit	Equal to the elected overall maximum limit
Accidental Death and Dismemberment	Covered	Covered
Emergency Reunion	Covered	Covered
Travel Benefits	Trip Interruption, Lost Checked Luggage, Lost or Stolen Passport, Travel Delay, Personal Liability, Crisis Response	Trip Interruption, Lost Checked Luggage, Lost or Stolen Passport, Travel Delay, Personal Liability, Crisis Response

FAQs: 

What is the difference between Atlas America and Atlas International insurance plans? 

Atlas America is designed for individuals who are non-US citizens traveling to the United States, while Atlas International is suitable for travelers’ visiting countries outside the United States. 

Do both plans offer coverage for medical emergencies? 

Yes, both Atlas America and Atlas International provide coverage for medical emergencies, including hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription drugs, and emergency medical evacuation. 

Are pre-existing conditions covered under these plans? 

No, these plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, rather they offer coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to the overall maximum limit and $25,000 lifetime maximum for Emergency Medical Evacuation. This benefit is available for people under the age of 80 years. Read the brochure to know in detail. 

Can I purchase Atlas America or Atlas International insurance if I am already abroad? 

Yes, you can purchase the Atlas America or Atlas International, before or even after your trip begins.

What is the maximum coverage limit offered by Atlas America and Atlas International? 

The maximum coverage limit varies depending on the plan and may range from $50,000 to $2,000,000, and it varies by age. For example, individuals aged 65 to 79 can choose overall maximum limit up to $100,000, but individuals aged 80 or older can choose up to $10,000. It is crucial to select a coverage limit that aligns with your healthcare needs and budget based on what is available for your age. 

Do both plans offer coverage for trip interruption or cancellation? 

These plans offer trip interruption coverage up to $10,000 but no trip cancellation coverage. 

Can I extend the coverage period of my Atlas America or Atlas International plan? 

Yes, both plans may allow for coverage extension under certain circumstances. It is essential to contact the insurance provider for information on eligibility and procedures for extending coverage. 

Are there any age restrictions for purchasing Atlas America or Atlas International insurance? 

No, both plans are available to individuals aged between 14 days to 99 years, although premiums may vary based on age and other factors. 

Can I cancel my Atlas America or Atlas International plan and receive a refund? 

Yes, both plans typically offer a full refund of premium if the policy is canceled with a written notification before the effective date, After the effective date, there is a cancellation fee and pro-rated refund of premium is possible if there are not claims. It is essential to review the policy documents for specific details on the cancellation policy. 

Conclusion 

Both the Atlas America and Atlas International insurance plans offer valuable coverage for travelers visiting the United States and other countries. The right choice depends on your specific travel itinerary, preferences, and needs. Carefully assess the features, benefits, and coverage details of each plan to determine which one aligns best with your upcoming trip. 

Remember that having visitor insurance is not just a requirement for some visas but also a smart financial decision to protect yourself from unexpected expenses while enjoying your US journey. Whether you opt for Atlas America or Atlas International, having the peace of mind that comes with proper coverage is an asset for any traveler. 

To know more about these plans, contact Visitor Guard®.