An estimated record of 34.7 million people are expected to go on a cruise trip in 2024, as reported by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). However, travelers must be cautious to avoid potential hefty medical bills.
It’s crucial for anyone planning a cruise to review the fine print of their cruise line’s terms, particularly regarding medical care.
In severe situations, like the case of Vincent Wasney, passengers could face significant costs. Wasney, who was uninsured, went on a cruise in December 2022. After experiencing seizures, he needed to be evacuated from the ship for medical treatment. Before disembarking, he received a $2,500 bill for the care provided on the ship. He was on a Royal Caribbean cruise, which requires all onboard costs to be paid before the end of the trip.
Even insured passengers may still encounter high bills during medical emergencies since most cruise ships don’t accept health insurance.
Medical staff on cruise ships handle health concerns similar to those in emergency departments and urgent care centers on land, according to Joe Scott, chair of the cruise ship medicine section of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). Common ailments include chest pain, abdominal pain, fever, injuries, and mental health issues.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that shipboard environments can facilitate the spread of diseases. Approximately half of all passengers seeking medical care on cruises are over 65 years old.
All CLIA-member cruises must comply with medical facility guidelines set by ACEP. This includes having at least one qualified medical professional available 24/7, an examination room, an intensive care room, and equipment for lab tests, vital sign monitoring, and medication administration.
Most cruise ships manage the initial hours of emergencies and many conditions for a few days. About 95% of medical incidents reported to ship medical staff are managed onboard, according to the CDC.
Cruise ships generally do not accept health insurance due to the diversity and complexity of international policies. Passengers are typically encouraged to seek reimbursement from their insurance plans upon returning home. However, coverage varies by policy, and some, like Medicare, do not cover services obtained far from U.S. ports.
To safeguard against medical expenses, travelers should consider purchasing travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage. Premiums can be costly, but they can save travelers thousands in emergencies. A good plan should cover existing medical conditions and include sufficient medical evacuation coverage, essential for visiting remote areas.
Preventative measures include bringing extra medications, listing prescriptions and medical problems, and maintaining hygiene and hydration. Passengers should also know their physical limits to avoid health issues during excursions.