We have been members of MASA for about 10 years and have never used their service. MASA not only covers all ambulance service but also any air transportation (plane or helicopter). Plus, it covers us anywhere in the world. We go to Cozumel every year and don't have to notify them of our plans since the Caribbean is under their main coverage area. If we were to travel farther afield, then just a phone call before we go would do it.
We took my parents to a MASA luncheon meeting approx. three years ago and they signed up. So far my father has used an ambulance service twice, and my mother three times (twice this past month!). They have never seen a bill.
MASA is generally funded by big corporations that buy the coverage for their executives that fly all over the world, plus families that pay by the year. MASA allows a certain number of retired people to join every year for a one-time cost as life-time members ($3,200.00 for us 10 years ago and $3,800.00 3 years ago for my parents). They will also fly the deceased home at no charge, get our coach home if we can't drive it, and will even fly a family member out to accompany a spouse if needed. We have been very happy with our decision to become members.
Generally, MASA holds luncheon meetings during the winter in high snow-bird cities. Check the local papers for these meetings, sign up and check them out! I bet if you were to go on-line and look them up, you might be able to find local luncheon meetings.
