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From: <wanewman_at_uswest.net>
subject: [Paddlewise] Emergency Evac Travel Insurance for Expeditions
Date: Mon, 07 Dec 1998 21:47:27 -0600
I will be part of a group that is planning a month ( or more
), long expedition to Chile and Argentina.  We will be
traveling in remote areas and will have one or more EPIRBs
to use as a last resort if we need emergency medical care or
outside help.  Although it is extremely unlikely that we
would ever need an emergency evacuation of one of the team
members, if needed it might be $$$$$$$expensive!  I know
travel insurance for routine travel is cheap and easily
available, but what companies are willing to insure an
expedition style trip, and what type of cost might we expect
have to pay?  Any specific insurance
contacts/recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

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From: <VajraT_at_aol.com>
subject: Re: [Paddlewise] Emergency Evac Travel Insurance for Expeditions
Date: Tue, 8 Dec 1998 02:29:45 EST
>>travel insurance for routine travel is cheap and easily
available, but what companies are willing to insure an
expedition style trip, and what type of cost might we expect
have to pay?  Any specific insurance
contacts/recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Certainly start your investigation by having a chat with several of the
'standard' medical evacuation agencies.  These include Travel Assistance
International, also known as Europ-Assistance.  Another is called SOS and
there are others.  These firms have been in business for many years, charge
reasonable rates and usually do a good job...  For example, they will pay for
helicopter evacuations from remote trekking areas in Nepal.  They have 24-7
coverage, accept a collect phone call from you, or your local contacts, then
consult with local medical resources.  

In my experience, this judgment is usually made on medical grounds, without
undue interference for cost-saving.  The level of coverage is scaled to your
medical needs.  i.e. they won't fly you home for a twisted ankle, but in rare
cases they will not only fly you home but also send a US-based nurse or doctor
to fly home with you.
If you use them, the smart more is to leave their number with your local
contact, and ask that they be called simultaneously with any evacuation.
	Here's another idea: There must be places to rent an Iridium or other
handheld satellite phone.  Then remember to call your insurance when you call
in the Chilean Navy.

Have a good trip.

Jim
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