The holiday season is the perfect time to visit your family, take a well-deserved vacation, or plan an international trip you’ve been dreaming of. However, unexpected health issues can arise anytime, so you need to fully understand your health coverage in case of any illnesses, injuries, or sudden medical concerns while traveling.
Your NALC Health Benefit Plan is designed to give you peace of mind no matter where your travels take you. Emergency and urgent care coverage are key parts of your plan, providing protection throughout the United States and worldwide. Knowing what counts as an emergency, where to seek care, and how to file a claim helps you focus on what matters most: your health and recovery.
Follow this article to learn how to use your NALC HBP under the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program while traveling, what to do in an emergency, and how to prepare before you go.
PSHB emergency vs. Urgent care
Understanding the difference helps you get the right care when every minute counts.
PSHB Emergency care
Emergency care is treatment for serious, life-threatening conditions that require immediate attention. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe injuries, uncontrolled bleeding, or sudden loss of consciousness. Under your NALC HBP, emergency care is covered anywhere, even if the provider is outside the Cigna PPO network.
Urgent care
Urgent care is for non-life-threatening conditions that still need prompt medical attention, such as infections, sprains, minor fractures, or high fever. Urgent care centers are often a faster and more cost-effective option than emergency rooms when appropriate.
Both the High Option Plan and the Consumer Driven Health Plan (CDHP) include emergency and urgent care coverage. Coverage details like deductibles and cost-sharing vary by plan, so it's a good idea to review your plan benefits before traveling.
What to do in case of an emergency while traveling
If a medical emergency occurs during your trip, follow these steps to ensure timely care and smooth claims processing later.
Step 1: Get immediate help
If the situation is life-threatening, call the local emergency number right away 911 in the U.S., or the local emergency numbers abroad. Remember that emergency care is covered regardless of provider network.
Step 2: Seek the appropriate facility
If you’re in the U.S., go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care center, depending on the severity of your condition. If you’re traveling abroad, visit the nearest hospital or medical clinic; keep in mind that international providers often require payment at the time of service.
Step 3: Keep all medical records and receipts
Save copies of:
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Itemized bills
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Medical reports and discharge summaries
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Proof of payment
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Dates and locations of care
These documents are critical when filing a claim after your trip, so they must be as detailed as possible. If you need to save some copies for personal backup, do it right away.
Step 4: Follow up after returning home
If additional care is needed after your trip, schedule follow-up visits with an in-network provider and continue to document all related services.
For High Option plan members
The High Option plan uses the Cigna PPO network for most care within the country. While PPO providers usually submit claims directly, out-of-network providers also have the option to do so. If they choose not to, or if you pay out-of-pocket, you must submit the claim yourself to receive reimbursement. If you receive care outside the network or pay out of pocket, you must submit a claim for reimbursement.
Always include all required documentation to avoid delays, and keep copies of all documents for your records. For emergency care outside the U.S., you may need to pay upfront and file a claim afterward.
For Consumer Driven Health plan (CDHP) members
The CDHP plan encourages the use of in-network providers and offers a Personal Care Account (PCA) to help cover out-of-pocket costs. Like the High Option plan, PPO providers typically file claims directly. Similar to the High Option plan, if an out-of-network provider does not submit a claim on your behalf, or if you pay out of network or internationally you must file a claim for reimbursement.
When submitting, be sure to indicate that you are a CDHP member to ensure proper processing.
In addition, keep in mind that The PCA may be used to pay deductibles, coinsurance, and other eligible expenses. It’s important to keep detailed records of everything, especially for services received outside the U.S. Finally, submit your claim promptly to avoid unnecessary delays or denials.
Tips for a safe holiday trip
Pre-travel checklist
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Review your emergency and urgent care benefits.
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Carry your NALC HBP ID card (physical and digital).
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Save the NALC HBP contact information in your phone.
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Use the Cigna Provider Directory to find in-network providers at your destination.
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Refill prescriptions and pack enough medication for your trip.
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Bring a list of medical conditions, allergies, and current medications.
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If you have a chronic condition, schedule a checkup before traveling and discuss any adjustments needed for time zones, climate, or activity levels.
During travel
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Keep your NALC HBP ID card and NALC HBP contact information easily accessible at all times.
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If you feel unwell or have a medical concern, seek care promptly. Use in-network providers when possible to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
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In case of emergency, call the local emergency number immediately (911 in the U.S. or the local equivalent abroad). Emergency care is covered even outside the network.
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Keep detailed records of any medical visits, including itemized bills, medical reports, and receipts. This documentation is essential for filing claims later.
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Stay hydrated, get enough rest, and manage any chronic conditions according to your healthcare provider’s advice.
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Follow local health guidelines and any travel advisories related to your destination, including immunization protocols.
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If you must visit an out-of-network provider or pay upfront for care, notify NALC HBP Member Services as soon as possible for guidance.
Worldwide assistance and travel health resources
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U.S. Embassies and Consulates can help locate medical facilities and provide emergency assistance.
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CDC Travelers’ Health offers destination-specific health guidance and emergency preparedness information.
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NALC HBP Customer Service can answer coverage and claims questions once you’re able to call.
While NALC HBP is not a travel insurance policy, its worldwide emergency coverage offers meaningful protection wherever you go.
