The Adventure Community Looks At Health Insurance

In a follow up to our post on the challenge of finding health insurance for those who engage in "high risk" adventure activities such as rock climbing, here we look at a case study involving one of the most high risk activities out there today: BASE jumping.

BASE jumper prepares to launch from Christ
the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro

On November 19, 2012, professional BASE jumper Jill Kuzman had just made her 4th jump from a towering sandstone cliff near Moab, Utah, when she experienced every BASE jumper's worst nightmare - her parachute opened backwards, causing her to plummet to the desert floor. Kuzman broke her leg on impact but was lucky to have the immediate assistance of medics and doctors who were jumping alongside her that day. Her competent companions treated her as they rushed Kuzman to the hospital, minimizing the consequences of a fall that could have turned out much worse. Today, Jill Kuzman is off crutches and moving toward a full recovery.

Unfortunately, like many athletes and adventurers, Jill Kuzman did not have health insurance coverage at the time of the incident and quickly racked up $120,000 in medical bills. Friends pitched in and Kuzman herself reached out on Facebook for donations to help offset her cost, bringing in close to $10,000 toward her bills, but a majority of her expenses still remain.

Not long after Kuzman's incident something of a firestorm, focused on uninsured BASE jumpers and adventure seekers, erupted on BASEjumper.com, with some contributors voicing support, others exasperation that someone would engage in such high risk activities uninsured, when accidents are so likely to occur. In his article The Adventurer's Health Insurance Conundrum on National Geographic's Adventure Blog, James Mills outlines the argument that unfolded on the site and examines some of the points that were brought to light, which adventure-seekers across a number of sports must grapple with.

Coverage For Your Travels? Thoughts On Travel Medical Insurance

Recently, Outside magazine's Adventure Advisor tackled the question of "Should I Buy Travel Medical Insurance?"

The Adventure Advisor offers advice on when to get insurance, why you should consider it, and where to shop for appropriate coverage.

In a related post, adventurers who enjoy "riskier activities" can learn more about the ins-and-outs of life insurance coverage that fits their lifestyle - If You Climb... Life Insurance For Climbers

If You Climb... Life Insurance For Climbers

Whether a weekend warrior or semi-professional adventurer, securing adequate insurance is worth looking into. Everything from basic rescue policies all the way up to life insurance are available, but having a conversation with an underwriter if you ARE an active adventurer (such as a climber) can be intimidating.

The National Geographic Adventure Blog's article "Risky Business: Life Insurance for Climbers" sheds some light on the process and conversations involved in securing a policy.

This useful feature will help prepare you in advance and give some pointers on how to navigate the perplexing waters of insurance coverage, allowing you to get back to doing what you love.