Emergency Assistance Plus
vs. Global Rescue

When it comes to travel assistance services, choosing the right provider can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety and peace of mind during emergencies.

Two of the leading services in this space are Emergency Assistance Plus and Global Rescue.

Both offer a range of valuable services, but they cater to different needs and preferences. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the key features, services, and costs to help you make an informed decision.

But before we get into the comparisons, let’s take a moment to outline the basics of each travel assistance provider.

Overview of Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+)

Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+) is a comprehensive travel assistance membership program designed to provide emergency evacuation, return home and travel assistance services. With EA+, you and your family can travel with confidence, knowing that you have access to a team of professionals who will arrange and provide services on your behalf, such as medical transport, medical referrals, and other essential travel-related emergency services. Here’s a closer look at what EA+ offers:

Key Services of EA+

Medical Evacuation and Repatriation: EA+ ensures that you receive medical transport to the nearest appropriate medical facility in case of an emergency. If necessary, they will also arrange and provide for your safe return home.

Medical Assistance: EA+ provides access to medical referrals and consultations, helping you find the right healthcare provider while traveling. They also offer prescription assistance to replace lost or forgotten medications.

Travel Assistance: In addition to medical services, EA+ helps with non-medical emergencies such as replacing lost travel documents and arranging transportation for a family member to join you if you’re hospitalized and alone away from home.

No Out-of-Pocket Costs: One of the standout features of EA+ is that all costs for emergency services included in the membership are provided, eliminating the need for complex insurance claims and requests for reimbursement.

Add-Ons solutions: EA+ members have the option to add enhanced services to their plan. Extended Family and Expanded Evacuation bolster the already robust EA+ plan:

• Extended Family gives other family members (such as grandchildren, adult children and their spouse, parents, grandparents and your siblings) access to certain EA+ emergency transportation and return home services if they experience a medical emergency while traveling with you.
• Expanded Evacuation provides for paid evacuation and transportation services in the event of a social or political emergency, natural disaster, or other security emergency.

Membership Cost: EA+ offers an affordable, low annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for travelers seeking comprehensive emergency assistance.

Overview of Global Rescue

Global Rescue provides a broad range of medical, security, evacuation, and travel risk management services. Tailored for a wide range of travelers, including individuals, families, and enterprises, Global Rescue places a strong emphasis on security and risk mitigation. Here’s what Global Rescue brings to the table:

Key Services of Global Rescue

Medical Evacuation and Field Rescue: Global Rescue offers emergency medical evacuations from the point of injury or illness to the nearest appropriate medical facility. They also provide field rescue services, which include extraction from remote or inaccessible locations.

Security Services: Global Rescue offers security evacuations in cases of political unrest, natural disasters, or other security threats. They also provide risk assessments and real-time intelligence to help travelers avoid dangerous situations.

Travel Assistance: Like EA+, Global Rescue assists with lost documents, transportation arrangements, and other travel-related emergencies.

Telehealth Services: Members have access to medical consultations with paramedics, nurses, and physicians via telehealth, providing immediate medical advice and support.

Membership Cost: Global Rescue offers various membership plans, which are higher in cost than EA+.

Now that you have a better sense of each company, let’s dive into an ‘apples to apples’ comparison of seven key features.

Comparing 7 Key Features and Services

1. Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

EA+

Provides comprehensive medical transport from hospital to hospital, to the nearest appropriate medical facility and, if necessary, repatriation back home or to a rehabilitation facility for continued care. EA+ covers all costs related to the transportation services, including the transportation of mortal remains. The service ensures that you receive the highest level of care during transport, whether you require an air ambulance, commercial stretcher, or medical escort. Additionally, EA+ provides RV/vehicle return if a documented medical emergency stops you from being able to drive. This all-inclusive coverage provides peace of mind, knowing that you won’t face unexpected expenses during a medical emergency abroad.

Global Rescue

Offers similar medical evacuation services but includes field rescues from remote locations, a feature not provided by EA+ as they are not a “first response” provider. Field rescue can be crucial for those engaging in activities in isolated areas where standard transportation may not reach.

2. Medical Assistance

EA+

Offers a broad range of medical assistance services including oversight of medical treatment while hospitalized, medical referrals, consultations, and prescription replacement assistance. EA+ connects you with English-speaking medical professionals and provides coordination of hospital admissions, facilitating seamless healthcare experiences.

Global Rescue

Provides telehealth services for immediate consultations with medical professionals, offering quick access to medical advice regardless of your location.

3. Security Services

EA+

EA+ focuses on comprehensive medical and travel assistance, but also has add-on services for an additional fee that provides security services and evacuation for social or political unrest, or natural disasters.

Global Rescue

Provides comprehensive security services, including evacuations and risk assessments, making it ideal for travelers to high-risk areas. This includes real-time intelligence updates and on-the-ground support in case of security threats.

4. Travel Assistance

EA+

Assists with replacing lost travel documents, arranging transportation for family members, and other non-medical travel emergencies. EA+ also helps with emergency cash transfers, translation services, and referrals to legal assistance if needed. This extensive support ensures that travelers can manage unforeseen disruptions with ease and confidence.

Global Rescue

Offers similar travel assistance services integrated with their medical and security support.

5. 24/7 Support

Both EA+ and Global Rescue offer 24/7 access to professionals ready to assist in emergencies. Whether you need immediate medical advice, logistical support, or coordination of emergency services, help is always just a phone call away.

6. Cost

EA+

More affordable with a straightforward annual membership fee covering a range of emergency services without additional costs. This cost-effective approach ensures that high-quality emergency assistance is accessible to a broad audience, particularly appealing to budget-conscious travelers who do not want to compromise on essential services.

Global Rescue

Generally more expensive due to the field rescue capabilities, which may be essential for travelers who participate in high-risk activities.

7. Target Audience

EA+

Ideal for travelers of all kinds who are seeking reliable and cost-effective medical and travel assistance protection.

It provides peace of mind with its comprehensive medical evacuation and repatriation services, along with valuable travel assistance, all at a low annual fee.

Global Rescue

Might be better suited for those requiring extensive medical, security, and evacuation services. This includes travelers to high-risk areas or remote locations where immediate medical or security intervention may be necessary.

While the cost is significantly higher, the range of services offered provides comprehensive protection and support.

Choosing the Right Service for Your Needs

When deciding between Emergency Assistance Plus and Global Rescue, it’s important to consider your specific travel needs and risk profile. If you’re looking for an affordable option that covers essential medical and travel assistance, EA+ is a great choice.

On the other hand, if you require advanced evacuation, such as field rescue capabilities, and comprehensive risk management, Global Rescue services may be more appropriate for your travels.

By understanding the differences and benefits of each service, you can make an informed decision that ensures your safety and peace of mind during your travels.

For more information on Emergency Assistance Plus and to see how it can benefit you, visit our website.

To learn more about Global Rescue and its extensive range of services, check out its website.

Travel with confidence, knowing that you have the right support and protection in place for any emergency that may arise.