Health Insurance for Mexico Tourists Free of Charge

The story “Mexico Unveils New Travel Health Insurance Scheme to Win Back Tourists” by Karen Elowitt on petergreenberg.com explains the news that Mexico has made a bold move towards bringing back tourists. The Swine Flu has left an unwanted stigma on the country and its economy is at risk. Mexico will be setting up a new health insurance plan which will be available for tourists in the case of injury or illness with no charge.

The health insurance plan is called the “Tourist Assistance Card” which can be accessed by contacting a free phone number which connects tourists to a multi-lingual call center. There may be deductibles that apply and patients will need to get treatment from authorized hospitals part of the plan.

This health insurance is being offered by a private company named MAPFRE and can be used for any type of emergency from sprained ankles to the flu. They also will have additional assistance to those who have lost their travel documents or passports, or even if they just need advice on travel plans. It's unknown whether or not this health insurance offer will lure enough tourists back to Mexico and save the economy, but it’s a step in the right direction.