Cruisers to the islands are unfortunately not immune to serious medical emergencies that may require treatment beyond the ministrations of the local out island government clinics. With that in mind, it is wise to secure medical air evacuation insurance before you come to the Bahamas. The other alternative is to hire a charter flight on the spot, a much more costly option. Check your personal health insurance (and your credit card issuer) to see what coverage is offered, if any. Some companies include air evacuation in their policies. Most policies also cover return of the remains in the event of death.

Though the following is not an exhaustive list, here are some contacts that you can consider. As you think about your possible needs, make a plan before you depart for the Bahamas or at least have the available services at your fingertips.

INSURANCE COMPANIES

AirMedInternational approx. $200+/yr membership

Blue Water Insurance, Inc. 800-866-8906 approx. $80/yr.

Divers Alert Network (DAN) 800-326-3822, 919-684-8111(emerg.) approx. $44/yr for 2 (No dive certificate necessary)

Medical Air Services Association 800-443-9023 or 423-3226 $140-280/yr

Professional Assoc. Of Diving Instructors (PADI) 800-779-7234 or 949-858-7234 approx. $40-89/yr

CHARTER SERVICES

Air Ambulance Network (Florida) 800-522-3467

Air Ambulance Professional (Ft. Laud.) 954-491-0555

Air Ambulance Services (Nassau) 242-362-1606/1692

AirTrek Medjets (Florida) 800-633-5387

National Air Ambulance 800-327-3710, 954-359-9900

Rates based on distance; level of care.

CAUTION: Some policies will evacuate you only in “imminent death” circumstances or only from a hospital with a doctor's request. Check out the clauses beforehand. Costs subject to change.