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Being covered for unexpected mishaps is crucial for travelling nurses and midwives. Whether you have a small tumble while hiking up the stunning Cradle Mountain, or simply fall ill the day before your contract begins, having peace of mind is important so you make smarter choices to manage stress when these unexpected incidents come knocking at your door.
In fact, having travel insurance is a legal requirement for some international visa holders who are traveling to work in Australia.
Disclaimer: Affinity does not currently offer any travel insurance packages. The information contained in this blog has been provided as general advice only. If necessary, it is advised that you complete further research before making any decisions.
In this blog:
Understanding travel insurance for travel nurses and midwives
Whether you’re undertaking your first contract or are a seasoned agency nurse or midwife, travel insurance can provide relief and support for any unexpected circumstances.
Opting for a 12-month policy is highly recommended if you plan to travel throughout the entire year. These plans can offer a comprehensive, one-and-done plan for coverage during the full period, so you don’t have to worry about looking for a new plan every time you disembark a new contract.
Travel insurance policies are flexible, allowing you to be covered for only what you need. Read below for 4 reasons why travel insurance can offer relief in tricky situations!
Medical emergencies
It goes without saying that your health and wellbeing are a top priority. Travel insurance can cover medical situations; unexpected general health issues, or pre-existing medical conditions.
The beauty of these policies allows you to obtain cover tailored to your needs. This means you can choose to cover only pre-existing conditions if that’s your main concern, ensuring you are protected no matter what health issues arise while away from home.
The travel nursing lifestyle is flexible, and you’ll most likely unwind and explore your new surroundings when you’re not on the clock! Travel insurance is highly recommended for most nurses and midwives who plan to engage in activities such as hiking. While these activities may not be considered high risk, having travel insurance offers peace of mind as you know you’ll be covered.
Protecting your belongings
Another reason why travel insurance is essential is to cover for loss or theft of baggage at the airport. While uncommon, travelling by plane can put you at risk of losing items. This can be a significant setback, especially if you are missing essential items required for your contract (e.g. uniforms or medical equipment).
Having insurance that covers a range of everyday belongings, from clothing to toiletries, can compensate for these lost or stolen items. You can quickly replace what you need without the full financial burden.
Similar to pre-existing medical conditions, you also have the option to only cover certain valuables separately, like laptops or phones.
Accommodation coverage
If you are deemed unfit to return home (e.g. due to illness or injury), travel insurance can assist by reimbursing costs related to accommodation until you are well enough to travel home!
Insurance packages can cover a variety of expenses such as hotel or rental accommodations, and even extended stays if your recovery period is longer than anticipated. This financial support allows you to focus on your health and wellbeing without worrying about the unforeseen costs involved.
Missed travel
Flying
Your travel itinerary can involve multiple layovers and tight schedules. It goes without saying but missing travel can cause stress, especially if your first contract date is inconveniently pushed back.
The best-laid plans crafted with care from our Travel Team can still be disrupted by unexpected circumstances that can lead to missed travel. While we provide some support and relief for certain unexpected circumstances (e.g. major weather conditions or travel cancellations), travel insurance policies can offer more comprehensive coverage.
If you are required to book a replacement flight, adequate insurance could cover the cost if you missed your flight due to injury, illness or traffic accidents. Additional expenses that can be covered due to these unforeseen circumstances include meals, transportation and even accommodation.
Driving
If your journey will predominantly be on wheels, a way to safeguard your trip going to and from your contract is to fill out your Journey Management Plan for our Travel Team. This means we and your facility know when to expect you, and account for any unexpected delays (e.g. weather events).
If you take your own vehicle, did you know you can also have rental car excess covered or lowered in an event where your vehicle is damaged or stolen? Instead of including extra insurance to the cost of renting a car, you will find that some travel insurance packages will cover this for you.
This kind of coverage can safeguard your peace of mind, so you get to your contract destination without more unwanted stress or financial burdens.
Please keep in mind that these circumstances can be case-by-case. Remember to refer to the PDS and T&Cs.
Whether it’s unexpected mishaps or simply protecting your belongings, travel insurance is an essential consideration for agency nurses and midwives looking to embark on their journeys in Australia. If you’re an active Affinity nurse or midwife, you can find more information on your homepage.
Here at Affinity, we offer unmatched support from the start and all the way to the end of your contract. Our hard-working travel team always does their best to offer you the most convenient travel methods so you can get to your destination and back home safely.
Simply pack your bags, choose a travel insurance policy tailored to your needs, and we’ll take care of the rest!
As a nursing agency with over 20 years of experience, Affinity’s top priority is to maintain your wellbeing and build your career while on contract. Register here to start your travel nursing journey with Affinity today!
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