A+ Expat Corner: Your Checklist When Getting an International Healthcare Plan
Global healthcare is far different from standard policies in a local country. When looking for the right international healthcare plan, it usually becomes a major and challenging move for expats and frequent travelers. There are two crucial things they need to decide on: the coverage and the insurance company. With unfamiliar insurance terms and countless plan options in the market, it is a tough process before choosing the ideal one.
Here are some of the most essential things you need to consider when buying an international health plan:
YOUR NEEDS
Your essential needs should be covered in your international health plan. Do you need inpatient care only or with an outpatient option? Do you need a maternity plan in the future? Or are you the one who prefers to be treated in places with high expertise such as Hong Kong, Canada, and U.S?
Think also of all the possible scenarios that can happen unexpectedly, like cancer, injury, or an accident. You can also decide whether your hospital accommodation is a general ward, semi-private, or private room. If you have listed all your priorities, it will be easier for you to decide the right plan and exclude things that are not necessary for your healthcare needs.
INSURER’S NETWORK & PLAN COVERAGE
Your international health insurance provider must have an extensive medical network. This includes hospitals, doctors, and clinics that are highly accessible no matter where you are.
Imagine going to a remote island with peace of mind knowing that you are protected in case you need medical assistance. Expats are prone to paying out-out-pocket expenses if they need to file a claim in areas that are not within their insurer’s network.
INSURER’S REPUTATION
Your insurer’s global reputation is an important factor that should not be neglected. Their service and capabilities must have high-standard so you are guaranteed your hard-earned money is in the right place.
Are they consistent and good at dealing with clients? Do they pay claims as quickly as possible? Bear in mind that this the company you will be needing the most especially when you are in a life and death situation.
24/7 SUPPORT
Healthcare support should be convenient and accessible all the time. It is pointless to have an international health plan if there is no available provider that can assist you when you need it the most. This is one major factor to determine how comprehensive your plan is.
Find an insurer with 24/7 customer support and an online portal where you can easily access all the important plan details such as your policy information and how to submit claims.
PORTABILITY
It is inevitable to worry about protection when living in a foreign country. But how far can your health coverage go if you are someone who travels frequently or moves from one country to another?
Whether you change occupation, get married, or move overseas, your insurer must allow you to bring your international health coverage wherever you go. Having the freedom to move is invaluable and it should not hinder you from getting quality healthcare across the globe.
EVACUATION AND REPATRIATION
Accidents and emergencies can happen anytime and in the most unexpected moment. Especially when you are in areas where access to medical facilities is limited, emergency evacuation and repatriation are two essential elements your international health coverage must have.
For example, if you or your family member needs a certain medical specialist or if the emergency treatment you need is not available in your current location, your insurer and its emergency providers will organize your evacuation to the best and closest medical facility.
A+ International for your global healthcare needs
Moving abroad with health coverage that protects you, locally and internationally, gives every expat and traveler absolute peace of mind. It needs to be comprehensive but at the same time, suits your essential needs and budget so you will not end up paying for unnecessary expenses.
Some people believe getting an international medical plan is expensive and intimidating but with A+ International Healthcare, it does not have to be. For as low as $28/month, EasyCare+ gives you international protection, whether you plan to travel or if you want to get the best healthcare locally. Each of our health plans is tailored to your specific needs. You can have access to a network of over 10,000 doctors, hospitals, and clinics in more than 150 countries.
Contact us to get in touch with our Brokers or Get a Quote now.
Since 2008, A+ International Healthcare has been providing best-in-class medical health plans around the world. To know more about our products and services, visit http://www.aplusii.com, or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter for more updates.
Disclaimer: Information printed on this page is for marketing purposes only. Final plan details shall be based on the published benefits table, restriction, and terms and conditions.
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