Explorer or Patriot Exchange? Compare Our Top Affordable Plans in Minutes!

lori683
Nov 11
3 min read

Updated: Nov 12

When studying or traveling abroad, choosing the right health insurance plan can make all the difference. Two of our most popular options for international J-1 Scholars and exchange visitors are our VISIT® Explorer Plan (Exclusively Offered by VISIT®) and the Patriot Exchange Plan (PEP).

Both plans offer flexible coverage, strong protection, and valuable coverage — but there are some key differences that can help you decide which one is best for your needs.

🌍 Explorer Plan Overview

Learn More: www.visitinsurance.com/explorer

The Explorer Plan is a comprehensive and customizable health insurance plan designed for international students, exchange visitors, and travelers. It provides a wide range of coverage levels and deductibles so you can tailor your plan to your needs and budget. Our VISIT® Explorer Plan accepts ANY VISA.

Coverage Options:

Medical Maximum: $100,000 | $250,000 | $500,000 | $1,000,000
Deductible: $0 | $100 | $250 | $500

You choose the combination that works best for your situation — whether you prefer a higher deductible for a lower premium or maximum protection with no deductible.

🌐 Patriot Exchange Plan Overview

Review Coverage & Quote/Buy: Patriot Exchange Plan

The Patriot Exchange Program (PEP), underwritten by IMG®, is designed specifically for students, faculty, and exchange participants. Dependents can be added when the primary is a J-1, F-1 or M-1. It offers solid benefits and optional riders for sports and other specialized activities.

Coverage Options:

Medical Maximum: $100,000 | $250,000 | $500,000
Deductible: $0 | $100 | $250 | $500

💡 Explorer vs. Patriot Exchange: Side-by-Side Comparison

COVERAGE	EXPLORER PLAN	PATRIOT EXCHANGE PLAN (PEP)
Medical Maximum (per Illness or Injury)	Choose: $100,000, $250,000, $500,000 or $1,000,000	Choose: $100,000, $250,000, or $500,000
Deductible	Choose: $0, $100, $250 or $500 (ANNUAL Deductible)	Choose: $0, $100, $250 or $500 (Per Illness or Injury)
Coinsurance	100%	90%
Pre-existing Condition	No coverage	Waiting period 12 months - $500 Max
Medical Emergency (ER)	$250 copayment	$500 copayment
Copays	$25 Urgent Care per visit$15 Walk-in Clinic per visit	$25 Urgent Care per visit$15 Walk-in Clinic per visit
Teladoc (Telehealth)	Included	Included

Prescription Drugs	80% reimbursement	90% reimbursement
Mental Health - Inpatient	$10,000	$10,000
Mental Health - Outpatient	$500 ($50 per visit) *NEW: Mental Telehealth Services (Optional Rider)	$500 ($50 per visit)
Medical Evacuation	$50,000	$50,000
Repatriation	$25,000	$25,000
Recreational Sports	Included	Included
Adventure Sports	Optional Rider	Optional Rider
Team Sports	No Coverage	Optional Rider
Personal Liability	$25,000	Optional Rider
Dental Treatment	$300 (Unexpected pain or Treatment due to an Accident)	$350 (unexpected pain of sound teeth) $500 (Non-emergency treatment at a Dental office due to an accident.
Maternity	No Coverage	No Coverage
Preventive Care	No Coverage	No Coverage
PPO Network	UnitedHealthcare	UnitedHealthcare
Member Portal	https://www.imglobal.com/member	https://www.imglobal.com/member
24-Hour Assistance	Included	Included

Please see Policy Certificate for specific policy details. EXPLORER PLAN DETAILS PATRIOT EXCHANGE PLAN DETAILS

🩺 Key Differences at a Glance

Coverage Limits: The Explorer Plan offers higher maximums — up to $1,000,000, compared to the Patriot Exchange’s $500,000 cap.
Coinsurance: Explorer covers 100% after the deductible, while Patriot Exchange covers 90%.
Pre-existing Conditions: The Patriot Exchange includes limited coverage ($500 max after a 12-month waiting period), while the Explorer Plan does not cover pre-existing conditions.
Emergency Room: Lower copayment with Explorer ($250 vs. $500).
Team Sports Coverage: Only available as an optional rider on Patriot Exchange.
Mental Telehealth: Optional coverage available only on Explorer!
J-2, F-2 and Visitors to the U.S. can purchase Explorer without the J-1/F-2. Explorer – Any visa accepted!!!

Both plans include telehealth access, prescription benefits, and coverage for mental health, medical evacuation, and repatriation — offering excellent protection while abroad.

✈️ Which Plan Should You Choose?

Choose the Explorer Plan if you want:

✅ 100% coinsurance after deductible

✅ Higher coverage maximums (up to $1M)

✅ Lower emergency room copay
Choose the Patriot Exchange Plan if you:

✅ Need limited pre-existing condition coverage

✅ Plan to participate in team sports (optional rider available)