Importers travel to and from countries, around the world, that have limited emergency and medical facilities, compared to the US. If you are hospitalized, in some countries, you can't leave until you have paid the bill. Moreover, if you are seriously ill, it may be advisable to be moved to medical facilities that are equipped to handle your condition - including the US. Insurance exists that will provide coverage to evacuate you and, importantly, provide you with a local advocate to make all the arrangements and details. For several hundred dollars a year, this is one of the best insurance buys available. Don't leave home without this coverage!