What Happens If You're Hospitalized Abroad? Inside Medjet's Global Rescue Plan

Lucía Torres · 2026-09-16

Global travel always comes with risk. But have you ever stopped to think about how you'd actually get home if you were hospitalized overseas? Or what you'd do if a natural disaster left you stranded thousands of miles from your family? That's exactly the gap Medjet fills. The Agency recently partnered with Medjet to offer discounted memberships to clients, and we sat down with CEO John Gobbels to talk medical transport, safety, and why so many travelers don't realize how common emergencies really are. ### A Track Record Built Over Decades Medjet has been operating for more than 35 years. As Gobbels puts it, they're "the oldest, and still best, program of our kind." The company doesn't publicize exact transport numbers, but it has helped thousands of members reach hospitals back home. Here's the stat that tends to surprise people: roughly 1 in 30 trips ends in a medical emergency or safety concern. That's more common than most travelers assume, which is why Medjet stays busy year-round. ### Not Insurance — A Membership That Actually Pays One thing worth clearing up: Medjet is not insurance. It's a private membership program, and the distinction matters. If you need transport, Medjet handles every arrangement and covers 100% of the transport costs, bedside to bedside. No claim forms. No bills. No out-of-pocket expenses beyond your membership fee. ### Who Benefits Most? Any resident of the U.S., Canada, or Mexico who travels frequently qualifies. Medjet's client list runs the gamut — corporate executives, families, solo travelers, retirees, athletes, even celebrities. The MedjetHorizon membership adds security and crisis response, and it's especially popular with solo travelers and families sending kids to study abroad. That tier gives you 24/7 access to expert advice, in-country help, and security evacuation when needed. ### How It Differs From Travel Insurance This is where Medjet really stands apart. Most insurance policies and credit card travel benefits only get you to the "closest, most appropriate facility." If that hospital is deemed adequate, you're essentially stuck there. Medjet works differently. Once a member is stable, Medjet moves them to the hospital of their choice back home — simply because they prefer it. That's the biggest difference. With security services, Medjet also doesn't require hard triggers like government-issued evacuation orders. Their teams can respond to threats earlier than most policies allow. > "Medjet has been in business for over 35 years. Over the years we have helped thousands of members get to hospitals at home. Statistics show that about 1 in 30 trips end in a medical emergency or safety concern." > — John Gobbels, Medjet CEO ### The Most Common Emergencies Medjet has seen it all: car accidents, ski accidents, e-bike and motorcycle crashes, paragliding incidents, heart attacks, strokes, and more. ### The Bottom Line Gobbels still recommends everyone carry travel insurance — at least $100,000 for medical expenses and evacuation to the nearest hospital. Medjet kicks in afterward, when you're ready to be moved home for continued care. If you're a frequent traveler, or you have loved ones who are, it's worth asking your agent at The Agency about Medjet memberships. Peace of mind doesn't cost much — and it travels everywhere you do.