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GeoBlue for Employees

International Health Insurance for Employees

Northwestern faculty and staff traveling abroad on university business are automatically covered by Northwestern’s business traveler insurance plan with BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions, formerly GeoBlue.

University business refers to travel that supports Northwestern duties and is funded by operational or grant money. Examples include:

  • Conferences and data collection
  • Research or teaching assignments
  • Recruitment, site visits, or student trips abroad

Who Is Covered

Eligible

  • Benefits-eligible faculty, staff, post-docs, fellows
  • Spouse, partner, or unmarried dependents traveling with you

Special cases (approval required from Risk Management)

  • Adjunct faculty, part-time staff, athletic trainers, faith leaders leading NU groups

Not covered

  • McGaw residents, independent contractors, volunteers, adjunct/emeritus employees, visiting international scholars
  • Employees permanently based abroad

Coverage Overview

This plan provides international health insurance for eligible employees and their dependents while traveling on university business. Highlights include:

  • Medical coverage up to $250,000 per trip (up to 180 days) for routine and emergency care
  • No deductible; no cost to the unit or department if traveler meets eligibility criteria
  • Emergency medical and security evacuation

Important: This is only a summary. For full details, consult the GeoBlue Employee Member Guide  or the Certificate of Coverage.

Before You Travel

  1. Register once before traveling by visiting bcbsglobalsolutions.com. Enter employee access code QHG9999NWBTY and use your Northwestern email to download the employee ID card.
  2. Download the mobile app to find doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies abroad.
  3. Use the app to schedule appointments, set up direct pay, or access telemedicine.
  4. Check medication restrictions on the Traveling with Medications webpage.

Emergencies and Claims

  • In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or clinic, then refer to Emergencies Abroad.
  • For routine care: Use the mobile app or website for providers and direct billing.
  • If you pay up front: submit a reimbursement for care by email.

Visa Letters

If proof of insurance is required for a visa:

  • Email: visaletters@geo-blue.com
  • Include: full name (as in passport), date of birth, destination(s), travel dates, and group code QHG9999NWBTY
  • Processing time: 3 business days

Questions