Frequently Asked Questions
- How can GeoBlue help?
- What do I need to do to use the program?
- What if I have pre-trip questions about my travel destination or questions about the current status in that location?
- What if I need a doctor?
- What if I need prescription medication?
- What if I am hospitalized?
- What if local medical facilities are not adequate for my specific requirements?
- What happens when I am released from the hospital and still need help?
- What is security evacuation assistance and coordination?
- Are there any GeoBlue coverage exclusions?
How can GeoBlue help?
GeoBlue provides you with worldwide quality health care and emergency assistance services 24 hours a day that are designed to supplement and integrate with the George Washington University's services, procedures and policies. You should always attempt to contact the university and/or your program's on-site emergency contacts first for assistance. If they are not available, then proceed to contact GeoBlue. GeoBlue services include medical, personal, travel and security information.
What do I need to do to use the program?
In order to utilize any of the medical or travel services listed under contract, call any GeoBlue from anywhere in the world by calling directly, calling collect or calling the toll-free number. To ensure a prompt response when calling, you should be prepared to provide the following:
- Your name, location, age, sex, and nationality
- The program with which you are associated: The George Washington University
- The telephone number from which you are calling (in case you are disconnected)
- Your relationship to the traveler (if the person calling is not you.)
- Name, location, and telephone number of the hospital or clinic (when applicable)
- Name, location, and telephone number for the treating doctor, and where the doctor can be reached (when applicable)
What if I have pre-trip questions about my travel destination or questions about the current status in that location?
GeoBlue offers you access to Country and Security Guides. The GeoBlue comprehensive guides provide both medical, security and general travel advice, such as information on the standard of health care, how to pay for medical care, the availability of medications, safety of the blood supply, embassy/visa information, dialing code information, cultural etiquette and financial and voltage/plug information.
What if I need a doctor?
You should first activate the on-site emergency support network for your location. If you are traveling, or in a situation where you cannot contact the on-site support staff or the George Washington University, you should then contact GeoBlue.
What if I need prescription medication?
If you require a prescription that a local physician cannot obtain, or you need to replace lost, stolen or depleted medication, contact GeoBlue.
What if I am hospitalized?
If you are in a situation or location where you cannot reach the on site support staff (if available) or the George Washington University, call the nearest GeoBlue. GeoBlue will immediately take steps to evaluate the care you are receiving and determine what actions must be taken to ensure your safe and speedy recovery. GeoBlue will notify GW immediately if you have not already done so.
What if local medical facilities are not adequate for my specific requirements?
If you are hospitalized in an area where adequate medical facilities are not available, GeoBlue will obtain approval from the university to evacuate you to a medical facility capable of providing the required care. A physician supervises evacuations, and when necessary, a medical specialist or nurse will accompany you during the evacuation. An air ambulance will be used when required.
What happens when I am released from the hospital and still need help?
When your condition is stabilized and GeoBlue has determined that it is medically advisable to bring you home or to a facility near your permanent residence, GeoBlue will again obtain approval from the university and arrange the repatriation under medical supervision.
What is security evacuation assistance?
GeoBlue will assist the university in the event of threatening situations such as civil and/or political unrest, insurrections, revolution or similar situations by providing information, guidance and resources in the event personal safety and security can no longer be assured.
Are there any GeoBlue coverage exclusions?
Yes, GeoBlue coverage contains exclusions. Contact Risk Management for details.