When Minutes Matter: Why You Should Never Wait for a Health Insurance Guarantee of Payment in a Medical Emergency
All the time, we see the same situation unfold – an employee or family member suddenly faces a medical emergency. They rush to the hospital, contact their insurer for a Guarantee of Payment (GOP), and then become frustrated when it takes more than an hour – or several hours – to arrive.
In some cases, this frustration turns to fear. We’ve even seen parents understandably upset when their sick child needs treatment, and they believe the insurer’s “delay” is putting them in danger.
At One World Cover, we completely understand that emotion. But here’s the truth:
In a genuine medical emergency, you should never wait for a GOP. Always pay first and claim later.
Why the GOP Takes Time
Even when insurers move quickly, a GOP can rarely be issued instantly. In most cases, the hospital must first provide:
- A preliminary diagnosis or medical report
- A proposed treatment plan
- An estimated cost
Only then can the insurer confirm that the treatment is covered, issue the GOP, and guarantee payment directly to the hospital.
That process can take one or two hours in the best-case scenario – and sometimes much longer depending on the hospital, time of day, or local communication delays.
That’s not negligence; it’s due diligence. Insurers simply cannot issue a blank GOP without verifying what’s being done and what it costs.
The Better (and Faster) Move: Pay and Claim
In a real emergency, time is more important than paperwork.
If treatment is urgent – especially in situations involving children, cardiac events, or accidents – the safest and fastest option is to pay the hospital directly and file a claim afterward.
All international insurers will reimburse eligible emergency expenses once the claim and receipts are submitted. In our experience, claims for emergency care are processed quickly and without issue, especially when supported by a hospital report and receipt.
READ MORE >> Direct Billing vs. GOP: What Global Expat Employers Need to Know
The above article explains the mechanics of direct billing networks and GOPs – and why understanding the difference is essential for HR leaders and plan members alike.
Key Takeaways for Members
- In an emergency: don’t wait for approval – get treated immediately.
- Keep receipts and medical reports. These are your proof for reimbursement.
- Contact your insurer after receiving care to open a claim and arrange follow-up.
- Inform One World Cover if you need help coordinating reimbursement.
A GOP can be extremely helpful for planned care or hospital admissions – but in an emergency, it’s the wrong tool for the moment. The priority should always be immediate medical attention.
So, if you ever find yourself at the hospital, waiting and worrying while a GOP is being arranged – stop waiting. Get treated.
Your insurer (and One World Cover) will help you get your money back. Your health comes first.
To learn more please get in touch: [email protected] or click here to contact us.
