Karen and David Fearson were holidaying in the USA and Canada, when a mysterious rash appeared on Karen’s arm. It worsened over a period of about a week. There were no obvious bites on Karen’s skin, and she had not experienced anything like this before. 

David took Karen to the Emergency Department of the local hospital to have the rash examined. Karen was treated with antibiotics and told to come back in the morning, at which time the hospital advised her that she had an infection in her cells.

Concerned about Karen’s health, David called Mondial Assistance to discuss her condition, and find out what was covered under their travel insurance policy. Medical Assistance Case Manager, Nicole Pridham explained their level of cover, and advised David that they would monitor Karen’s situation with David.

A couple of days later, Karen woke up with more welts on her arm and neck, and the rash was getting worse. She was then admitted to hospital for observation. After examination, Karen was given various medications to try to relieve the rash, but nothing seemed to work.

Very distressed, David called our Medical Assistance Team for help and advice. Karen had not been seen by the doctor in 30 hours, and they were still unable get a diagnosis on her condition.

Medical Assistance Case Manager Nicole Pridham, immediately contacted the hospital to discuss Karen’s condition with the Ward Nurse, ensuring that she would be seen by a doctor immediately. Following this phone call, Karen was examined by an Infectious Diseases Specialist, who advised that Karen had an allergic reaction to Penicillin. Her medication was changed and Karen started to improve. 

Nicole kept in touch with David daily, monitoring Karen’s condition, and providing much needed emotional support.

Due to Karen’s condition, the Fearons needed to amend their travel plans. Mondial Assistance rearranged the rest of their journey and organised flexible air tickets, so they could fly home as soon as Karen was deemed fit to fly.

Once Karen’s rash and swelling had subsided, the Fearons returned home safely. 

Karen and David saved around $15,000.
As well as receiving valuable emotional support during a worrying time, Karen and David saved approximately $15,000, thanks to their Mondial Assistance Travel Insurance Policy.

Iwould like to take this opportunity to thank the staff I dealt with while on holiday recently, mainly Nicole. While our holiday ended early due to an illness my wife suffered, your staff tried their very best to help. And thanks to them for relieving at least some of the stress we were going through. My wife is getting a lot better now and hopefully is well on the way to a full recovery. So once again, thank you all.
David Fearon 

ABOVE LEFT: Nicole Pridham, Medical Assistance Case Manager helped an Australian couple with a medical emergency, while on holiday in the USA and Canada. 


You’re in good hands with Mondial Assistance.
Our ability to provide Overseas Emergency Medical Assistance and claims processing in-house, with our Group presence around the world, means we are truly connected to the people we’re assisting in a caring way.

In Australia during 2006, we handled over 60,000 Travel Insurance claims and more than 37,000 Medical Assistance cases. Yet, in every case, we strive to provide a superior level of personal service, which sets Mondial Assistance apart.

Our Medical Assistance is the key to your safety, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We are specialists in the medical evacuation of Australians overseas. So you can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that we’re here to help our customers.