What is Atlas America Insurance?

Atlas America is a travel medical insurance plan designed specifically for international visitors coming to the United States. Underwritten by Lloyd's and administered by Tokio Marine HCC Medical Insurance Services (MIS Group), this insurance plan caters to tourists, business travelers, relatives visiting family, and international students who need temporary health coverage while in the U.S.

The insurance provides coverage for new and unexpected medical conditions, injuries, and illnesses that might occur during your visit to America. Unlike standard travel insurance that primarily covers trip cancellation and lost luggage, Atlas America focuses on protecting you against potentially astronomical healthcare costs in the U.S. medical system, which can quickly reach tens of thousands of dollars even for relatively minor treatments.

How Atlas America Insurance Works

Atlas America operates on a reimbursement model with direct billing options for certain services. When you purchase a policy, you select your coverage limit (ranging from $50,000 to $2,000,000), deductible amount, and coverage period. The policy becomes active on your selected start date and provides coverage throughout your specified duration in the United States.

When medical attention is needed, policyholders can visit any doctor or hospital of their choice. For emergency situations, you should seek care immediately and then notify the insurance provider within the specified timeframe (typically 48 hours for emergencies). For non-emergency situations, using the preferred provider network can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

After receiving treatment, you'll submit claims with supporting documentation to the insurance company. Atlas America then processes these claims according to your policy terms, covering eligible expenses after your deductible has been met. The company also offers a 24/7 emergency assistance service to help navigate healthcare options while traveling.

Provider Comparison: Atlas America vs Competitors

When comparing travel medical insurance options for visitors to the United States, several providers stand out alongside Atlas America. Here's how they compare on key features:

ProviderMax CoverageDeductible OptionsAcute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions
Insubuy Atlas America$2,000,000$0-$5,000Limited coverage available
Visitors Coverage Safe Travels USA$1,000,000$0-$2,500Limited coverage available
IMG Patriot America$1,000,000$0-$2,500Limited coverage available
Seven Corners Liaison Travel$1,000,000$0-$5,000Limited coverage available

Atlas America, available through Insubuy, offers higher maximum coverage limits than many competitors and provides additional benefits like terrorism coverage and political evacuation. Their policy also includes coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions for travelers under 70, though with certain limitations.

While IMG's Patriot America plan offers similar coverage, Atlas America typically provides more comprehensive adventure sports coverage. Seven Corners plans may offer more competitive rates for older travelers, but often with more restrictions on coverage.

Benefits and Limitations of Atlas America Insurance

Atlas America insurance offers several notable benefits that make it attractive to international visitors:

  • Coverage for medical expenses including hospitalization, surgery, emergency room visits, and prescription medications
  • Emergency medical evacuation coverage
  • Terrorism coverage (rare among travel insurance policies)
  • Coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions for travelers under 70
  • 24/7 travel assistance services
  • Coverage for eligible sports and recreational activities
  • Repatriation of remains benefit

However, there are also important limitations to consider:

  • Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered (except for acute onset under specific circumstances)
  • Routine check-ups and preventive care are excluded
  • Certain high-risk activities may require an additional sports rider
  • Pregnancy-related expenses are typically not covered
  • Mental health coverage is limited
  • Maximum duration limits apply (typically up to 364 days)

When purchasing through Insubuy, customers gain access to comparative quotes from multiple providers, allowing them to find the most suitable coverage based on their specific needs and budget constraints. The Tokio Marine HCC Medical Insurance Services backing provides financial stability and global support infrastructure.

Pricing and Policy Selection Guide

Atlas America insurance pricing varies based on several key factors that travelers should consider when selecting a policy:

Age: Premium costs increase significantly with age. For example, a 30-year-old might pay $40-60 for a month of coverage, while a 70-year-old could pay $200-300 for the same period and benefits.

Coverage amount: Higher maximum coverage limits (ranging from $50,000 to $2,000,000) result in higher premiums. For short tourist visits, $100,000 coverage might be sufficient, while longer stays or higher-risk activities might warrant $500,000 or more.

Deductible choice: Selecting a higher deductible (options typically range from $0 to $5,000) lowers premium costs but increases out-of-pocket expenses if medical services are needed. A $250 deductible represents a common middle ground.

Trip duration: Longer coverage periods increase total costs, though the daily rate often decreases for extended stays. Atlas America policies are available for periods ranging from 5 days to 364 days.

When selecting a policy through Insubuy, travelers can customize these variables to find their optimal balance between coverage and cost. For most visitors, the Atlas America Choice plan offers a good combination of comprehensive coverage and value, while the Atlas Premium plan provides enhanced benefits for those seeking additional protection.

To make the most informed decision, visitors should assess their health status, planned activities, and risk tolerance. Those with existing health concerns or planning to engage in adventure activities should consider higher coverage limits and potentially additional riders. Meanwhile, younger travelers with no health concerns might opt for higher deductibles to reduce premium costs.

Conclusion

Atlas America insurance provides vital protection for international visitors to the United States, offering a shield against the high costs of American healthcare. When purchasing through Insubuy, travelers gain access to various coverage options that can be tailored to specific needs and budgets. While no insurance plan covers everything, Atlas America's combination of emergency medical benefits, evacuation coverage, and travel assistance services makes it a compelling option for those seeking comprehensive protection during their U.S. visit.

Before traveling, take time to understand policy details, exclusions, and the claims process. Remember that the best insurance is one that matches your specific travel plans, health status, and risk tolerance. By carefully evaluating your needs against the available options, you can secure appropriate coverage that provides peace of mind throughout your American journey.

Citations

This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.