It is a fact that cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 1 in 6 deaths occur because of cancer worldwide. The WHO’s global report on cancer reveals that 30-50% of all cancer cases can be prevented by taking simple measures like not smoking, maintaining body weight, having a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. 

But it is also true that if the disease is detected and diagnosed at an early stage, then chances of survival are high. The earlier cancer is found, the more likely it can be treated successfully before it can spread beyond its original location. Understanding why early detection is crucial will help you make informed decisions about your health care. 

The Early Signs of Cancer 

When cancer starts, it produces no symptoms. Warning signs appear as the tumor grows. At this time, cancer may have begun to spread. This process is called metastasis. It happens when cancer cells move from the original place to other parts of the body through blood or lymph vessels. 

Examples of signs and symptoms that might be related to cancer include: 

• A lump in the breast, testicle, or somewhere else on the body 
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits 
• A sore that does not heal 
• Unusual bleeding (for example, vaginal bleeding after menopause) 
• Persistent indigestion or discomfort after eating 
• Difficulty swallowing 
• Chronic cough or hoarseness 
• Blood in the stool or urine 

It is also good to remember that early diagnosis is not always possible, and sometimes symptoms are not noticeable until they have reached advanced stages. However, if you are experiencing any unexpected changes in your body, make an appointment with your physician soon. Even if it turns out to be nothing, you will feel more at ease knowing for sure. 

Why Early Detection Can Save Lives 

It is important to understand the different types of cancer tests and their role in early detection. The most common form of testing is screening, which finds cancer in people who do not have any symptoms. Screening involves tests performed on individuals who are at average risk for developing certain cancers. 

Here are some reasons why a person at risk of cancer should get early screening: 

Detecting Cancer at an Early Stage Reduces Deaths 

The earlier that cancer is diagnosed, the higher the likelihood of successful treatment and recovery. For advanced-stage non-small cell lung cancer, stomach, and pancreatic cancers, between 36% and 53% of patients are diagnosed with the fourth-stage disease, where cancer has spread to other parts of the body, and these patients have low survival rates. 

Early Detection Improves Quality of Life 

Even though modern treatment options for cancer are improving, they do not always offer a good quality of life to patients suffering from late-stage diagnoses. Detecting cancer early is critical as it can significantly improve the chance of survival and reduce the need for aggressive treatments. 

You Get the Best Treatment 

An early diagnosis gives you a better chance at successful cancer treatment, especially for malignant tumors that have not spread to other body parts. It also reduces the chances of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery because you only need to remove the affected area or kill the developing malignant cells before they spread. 

Secure Your Health And Finances With Easy Care+ 

More than 22 million new cancer cases and nearly 13 million cancer-related deaths are expected worldwide by 2030, with more than half of all new cases and two-thirds of cancer deaths occurring in poor countries. 

Without coverage for critical illnesses like cancer, one can be primarily unprotected and at risk for large medical expenses or even bankruptcy. It is crucial to have a comprehensive plan to meet medical needs. 

When you have an International Health Plan, you get access to quality healthcare services and facilities wherever you are in the world. You can choose from a network of highly skilled doctors, surgeons, and specialists who are experts in their fields. And above all, you get to enjoy first-class healthcare and receive the necessary treatments for your recovery.   

For as low as $40/month with cancer protection, 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 tailors to your specific needs. You can access a network of over 10,000 doctors, hospitals, and clinics in more than 150 countries.   

Contact us through our Live Chat 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,  Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.  

When it comes to expat health, if you’re planning on living abroad, the biggest threat to your well-being is likely to be a lack of knowledge about how best to safeguard it. Some general health problems affect expats worldwide, but specific health issues may affect expats in some areas of the world. 

Here is a list of common expat health problems, symptoms, and tips for staying healthy when living abroad: 

1. Altitude Sickness 

This condition can strike anyone who travels from a low-altitude area to high-altitude areas such as mountainous regions or areas with very high buildings like skyscrapers. The air pressure is lower at higher altitudes, so oxygen levels are also lower. When traveling at altitude, your body needs time to acclimate to this change in oxygen levels. Altitude sickness can cause headaches, nausea, fatigue, and other symptoms similar to a hangover.  

2. Stress and Depression 

Feeling stressed and depressed is one of the most common expat health problems. This can result from several factors, including loneliness and missing friends and family back home, adapting to a new culture and language, and financial difficulties. 

Studies have found that expats tend to suffer from higher levels of stress and psychological distress than their local counterparts and decreased life satisfaction. Stress can lead to depression, a severe medical condition requiring treatment by a healthcare professional.  

3. Dengue Fever 

Dengue fever is a flu-like illness found in tropical and sub-tropical regions worldwide, primarily urban and semi-urban. Dengue is spread by mosquitoes that bite during the day. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for dengue. Therefore, prevention through mosquito avoidance is vital. The best way to avoid getting infected is to use mosquito repellent and wear clothing that covers your arms and legs as much as possible when outdoors. 

4. Food Poisoning 

One of the most common expat health problems is food poisoning. There are many strains of bacteria and many types of food poisoning but the most common cause is unclean water and undercooked meat. The symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. Food poisoning usually lasts a couple of days and fades away on its own, but it can be lethal in some cases. Take precautions when you eat out abroad, as there are many differences between the standards for food safety in different countries. 

5. Dental Problems 

Dental care varies from country to country, and some countries have higher levels of sugar in their diets than others, leading to tooth decay. If you live in a country like China or India, where there is not much awareness of dental health, you may find yourself needing to see a dentist even if you brushed your teeth twice a day back home. It is best to find an English-speaking dentist before moving abroad so that you know where to go if you need help with your teeth. 

6. Weight Issues 

Many expats gain weight when they move to a new country as they relax more, eat, and drink differently than they did at home. Not only is weight gain unhealthy, but it can also cause psychological stress. 

To counteract this tendency toward a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diet, many expats join gyms or fitness classes and make an effort to trade take-out for homemade meals with other expats. Getting your body into shape will make you feel better about yourself and help you enjoy life more. 

Get Easy Care+ today for you and your family   

There are certainly plenty of ways to stay healthy while living abroad, and your best bet is to prepare in advance. Knowing the risks can help you avoid falling ill while abroad and even save your life. The more you know about the area, the better you will be able to avoid pitfalls that could threaten your health and that of your family. 

It is also imperative to have comprehensive international health insurance with medical evacuation coverage so you can afford the best care possible in any emergency. Our goal is to make healthcare easy for you with Easy Care+. For as low as $30/month, enjoy international protection and access 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, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates. 

Although health insurance terminology can be confusing at times, it is vital that you understand what you are paying for when you select a plan. Just as you should look into the price of a health insurance plan, you should also familiarize yourself with the various terms used in these plans to fully inform your own decision-making. 

Read on for some handy information about health insurance terms you should know if you are looking into buying one. 

Deductible  

A deductible is the amount you pay for health services from your own pocket before your insurance company starts to cover its share. For example, if you have a $1,000 deductible and you need a colonoscopy procedure, your insurance will cover its share of the cost after you’ve paid $1,000 out of pocket. 

Premium 

Your premium is what you pay the insurance company to keep your policy active. Most policies are paid – yearly, but some also offer quarterly or semi-annual installments. 

Copayment 

The copayment is the amount you pay for using certain medical services. In some health insurance plans, you pay the same copay for each visit to your doctor or any other kind of medical professional. For example, if your doctor’s visits have a $30 copay and your prescription drugs have a $10 copay, you’d have to pay $40 when you go to the doctor for a prescription refill. 

Coinsurance

A percentage of costs that the insured must pay after meeting their deductible. For example, if your policy has coinsurance of 80% and the bill is $1,000, then your coinsurance contribution would be $200 (20%). If the coinsurance was 50%, then the amount to pay would be $500 (50%). 

Exclusion or Limitation 

A medical exclusion is a condition or treatment that a health insurance plan does not cover. Some exclusions are for specific situations, conditions, or treatments such as prescription drugs or maternity care. 

In-network Provider 

An in-network provider is a doctor, hospital, or pharmacy that is part of a health plan’s network of preferred providers. If you visit an in-network provider, you may pay less than if you went to a doctor who is not discounted by your health plan. 

Out-Of-Network Provider 

Out-of-network providers are those that are not affiliated with your health plan. You will usually pay more for services you get from them. 

Pre-existing Condition 

A pre-existing condition is a health problem that has been diagnosed, or for which you have been treated, whether successfully or unsuccessfully, before buying a health insurance plan. This means that if you had a medical problem and bought health insurance after that, your plan will generally not cover the costs related to this pre-existing condition.  

In the end, being well-informed about your health insurance options is the best way to ensure that you make the best possible decision for you and your family. You also want to be able to spot any red flags when comparing different plans, and know what questions to ask your broker or agent. 

Why Choose A+ International Healthcare?  

With international healthcare, you get to have the best of both worlds. You can enjoy high-quality medical coverage in your home country and at the same time, get protected in the country you are moving to. Wherever you go, world-class care is within reach.   

With A+ International Health Plans, you can have access to a network of 10,000 doctors, hospitals, and clinics in more than 150 countries. Each of our health plans is tailored to your specific needs. For as low as $30/month, Easy Care+ gives you international protection, whether you plan to travel or if you want to get the best healthcare locally. 

Contact us through our Live Chat 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,  Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   

Many people feel confused, uncertain, or scared when they find out they have cancer. Some lose their jobs because they need time off to get medical care or attend medical appointments. These financial pressures may cause anxiety in both the patient and family members. 

High-quality medical care is crucial to a cancer patient’s long-term survival and health. Cancer treatments can last six months or more and vary greatly in their costs, depending on the type of treatment chosen, but are generally costly.  

Cancer Treatment Options 

There are several types of treatments available for cancer including: 

• Chemotherapy — A combination of drugs that destroy cancer cells and stop them from spreading 

• Radiotherapy — Uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors 

• Surgery — Removing all or part of a tumor and some of the surrounding tissue so they can’t grow back again 

• Anti-angiogenesis therapy — Drugs that block the blood supply going to tumors so they can’t grow any bigger 

• Immunotherapy — Drugs that help boost the body’s immune system so it can fight off cancer cells on its own. These work best in combination with other treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy.  

The importance of health insurance with cancer cover 

Treatment for cancer can include surgery to remove cancerous tumors or radiation therapy to treat cancer in the body. These treatments can be very expensive and if you do not have any form of insurance or private health care, then it could set you back thousands of dollars. 

Here are some crucial reasons why cancer protection is an important benefit when getting a health insurance plan: 

• Medical bills are the number one cause of bankruptcy — There are a couple of reasons people end up in such dire financial straits because of their health care costs. Turning to your assets is often the only way to pay for critical illness treatment and to cover other expenses that may arise. Another is that they delay seeking treatment until an illness has progressed to a serious stage, incurring higher costs for treatment and medications. 

• Immediate and quality medical attention — Cancer treatments are expensive and sometimes painful when you delay getting help. Instead of waiting for days or weeks to see specialists or get treated, you will be able to get the immediate care that you need with health insurance. This means you have access to a wide range of medical services, without being concerned about the cost.  

• Peace of mind — When you are protected by an insurance policy from any financial crisis, it is an assurance that your family can still be taken care of even if something bad happens to you. If one is financially capable, getting a health insurance policy is a wise move for anyone who values and wants to protect their family. 

In the event of a critical illness like cancer, it is crucial to have sufficient cover and support from your insurance policy. You’ll want enough coverage that you have enough money to continue living comfortably without having to worry about financial strain from paying for expensive treatments. 

Our client’s long battle with cancer with the hope of full recovery 

There is nothing more precious than a person’s life and health. Our client’s personal and physical struggles are unimaginable with repeated tests, chemotherapy, and medical procedures over a year.   

With over one year of ongoing treatment and chemotherapy sessions, his medical bill has already escalated to over US$300K and rising. A+ International Healthcare will continue to support our client with his struggle and cover the necessary expenses. With A+ Cancer Cover, we are removing the extra stress related to hospital expenses so the client can focus on his physical and psychological challenges related to his condition.  

This is because we understand the importance of having a reliable partner, especially during times of need.   

Secure your health and finances with A+ International Healthcare  

In a world where even healthy people can be struck with expensive conditions, it’s smart to take stock of every possible avenue for financial protection. We are committed to providing the very best healthcare options for every patient and their family—helping our clients get back on their feet, physically and financially, when they need us most. 

With our affordable international healthcare, you get peace of mind knowing that you will not have to jeopardize your financial stability if you are ever faced with a critical illness like cancer. And above all, you get to enjoy first-class healthcare and receive the necessary treatments for your recovery.  

If you’re looking for an affordable expat insurance in Thailand and other countries in Southeast Asia, EasyCare+ gives you international protection, whether you plan to travel or if you want to get the best healthcare locally. For as low as $38/month with cancer protection, 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, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.     

With the year 2022 coming up, it might be worth considering making a bit of an adventure, and living and working abroad as an expat. By accepting a job abroad, you will move your career to new heights. This is because moving overseas is often the best way to demonstrate that you can work well with others and build new skills. 

It may be a stretch for some, but it is a given that this will increase many aspects of one’s life including a dynamic social life, greater cultural appreciation, and an improved career. 

The perks of being an expat 

With more and more people wanting to travel and live abroad, expat career opportunities have increased around the world. 

Expats do get paid more than their local peers by an average of $17,000 annually. The primary reason for the increased pay is due to their heightened skill sets and often rare skills in certain regions of the world. 

Another big reason for this bump in pay scales is an expat’s ability to adapt to cultures other than their own, which has proven to be very valuable in today’s globalized economy. 

If you’re interested in an expat career, then there is no shortage of opportunities for you. Still, the best options will vary from one country to the next, and it is up to you to figure out which positions you might be suited for.  

The globally in-demand expat careers today 

Let’s take a look at a selection of the most in-demand expat careers that companies are offering around the world today. 

1. Education 

With more people learning English than any other language in the world, teaching it is a highly attractive career choice for expats wanting to immerse themselves internationally. With a TEFL qualification, teaching English as a foreign language can be particularly lucrative, especially in Europe where demand is greater. 

The average pay for teachers at international schools abroad is $17-22 USD per hour, but many international schools will pay more for qualified people. Throughout various countries in Southeast Asia, including Myanmar and Vietnam, the demand for international schools has been gathering momentum over recent years. As this trend continues, international schools will become even more popular. 

2. Hospitality 

The hospitality industry is big business. It encompasses hotels, restaurants, casinos, spas, retail, travel agencies, and car rentals. No matter what city you are based in, chances are there are elite international businesses that will hire you.  

Whether you are an internationally-recognized chef or a hardworking hotel manager, there are hundreds of jobs available. The highest-paying jobs are generally senior management positions though they will require at least several years of international work experience. 

3. Nursing 

One reason why there’s a shortage of nurses is that the job is physically and emotionally demanding, and nursing is a long-term career that requires a huge amount of dedication. In the next ten years, the global shortage of nurses might increase to 13 million according to the World Health Organization. 

The top international nursing destinations include the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon. It is important to note that requirements for nurse visas vary from country to country within this region. Some of the most popular Middle Eastern nurse destinations hire nurses with a BSN or an Associate’s degree in Nursing. Countries such as Saudi Arabia require foreign nurses to have both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. 

4. Software or Web Development 

There are over 24.5 million developers in the world but we are still lacking 40 million more by 2030, which is predicted to more than double.  

There’s no doubt that Artificial Intelligence will play an essential role in the maintenance of digital infrastructure over the next twenty years. As companies rush to make their products “smart” or use AI for tasks like customer service, they will also need more human developers to add a layer of sophistication on top of these platforms. 

5. Marketing 

There’s a huge demand for marketing professionals in many countries around the world, where even if you only speak one language you can find a job in a communications outlet. 

Digital Marketing, in particular, has become an important part of online strategy for most businesses especially during the pandemic. Companies looking to advance their marketing careers will often relocate to London, Tokyo, and New York where the top-rated marketing agencies are located. 

Get EasyCare today for you and your family  

For all expatriates, health is a top priority whether they are a young professional, going to retire, or even just staying for less than a year. They must protect themselves no matter where they go. Selecting the most suitable health plan is, therefore, the first concern for any expat who has just arrived in a foreign country.   

Our goal is to make healthcare easy for you with EasyCare. For as low as $28/month, enjoy international protection and 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, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.    

Good health insurance can give you peace of mind and save your family from financial catastrophes. But what if your claims get rejected by your insurer? How would you feel then? 

Health insurance claims are often denied due to several reasons. If you do not know what to look out for, your chances of getting compensated by your insurance company are very slim. 

You can increase your chances of getting compensated by learning about the most common reasons why health insurance claims get denied and how you can avoid these mistakes in the future. 

To ensure that doesn’t happen, here are six reasons why your claims might get rejected: 

1. Your plan has limits on certain medical treatments and diagnostics. 

Not all healthcare plans cover all expenses incurred during a single hospitalisation or major medical procedure. If your medical plan states that you are only covered for each hospitalization up to a certain amount, then expenses on top of that limit have to be shouldered by you.  

For example, you need to undergo a kidney transplant that costs $75,000 but your health plan can only cover $50,000. Since you have exceeded the cover limit for that kind of procedure, you need to pay the rest of $25,000 as out-of-pocket costs.  

Bottom line: It pays to know your policy inside and out—or at least spend time researching what your policy does and doesn’t cover. The goal is simple: understand exactly how much it will cost you and double check your health plan benefits before getting treatment, so you aren’t surprised by high bills or rejected claims down the road. 

2.  You ignored the exclusions.  

Different types of health insurance have different guidelines for what is and is not covered. The exclusion of your insurance policy refers to a condition that is not covered by the plan. This can be found in your policy documents, your benefits table and your insurer’s general terms and conditions.  

If you have a basic health plan, things like prescriptions or cancer treatment might be completely not covered as well major disease treatments or specific types of accidents. Some of the most common exclusions in a health plan are pre-existing conditions, cosmetic surgeries, and injuries from any risky sports and activities like mountain climbing and paragliding. 

These sections should be read carefully prior to filing an insurance claim so that you avoid any unpleasant surprises. 

3.  You did not declare an existing medical condition. 

This is a serious offense that could incur sanctions from health insurance companies and may lead to cancellation of your policy. It is important to make sure you are telling your insurance company about all your past and present medical issues. 

If you suppress information or leave something out that they may need to know about your medical history that violates the policy terms, then there is a good chance that your claim will be denied, and your policy is at risk of being cancelled. Insurer claims handlers conduct a thorough background check on a patient’s medical history before approving a claim. 

Sometimes patients will be dishonest, or forgetful about certain things. The more truthful you are with your insurance company and give them all your details, there will be no mistakes on their end, especially if it is an expensive procedure. 

4. You exceeded the time limit for claim submission. 

Each health insurance company has a specific amount of time that patients have to file their claims.  

If you were injured and underwent a medical procedure but failed to submit the claims for the expenses after 2 years,  then chances are you will not be able to be reimbursed that bill as the grace period has lapsed already. That is why it is important to file for compensation as soon as possible following an accident or inform your insurer and provide them details of your condition right away.  

The last thing you want is having to argue with your brokers or insurance agents and try to reason out that your claims are still valid and justifiable. 

5. You used up your plan limit.

The annual limit refers to the maximum amount an insurance company is willing to pay in benefits for an individual during a particular policy year. For example, your yearly maximum coverage is $1,000,000. After you reach the annual limit, you must pay for all health care costs you incur for the rest of the year.  

Many health insurance plans have an annual cap. Make sure you have the right information about the over-all plan limit before signing your policy contract. 

6. Your policy lapsed. 

If you let your policy lapse and suddenly need to be hospitalised, you won’t be able to file a claim. Insurers and claims handlers will always check if your policy is active or not at the time of your accident, injuries, or medical procedure.  

Be diligent and know your plan cover period and always be aware of your policy renewal schedule. 

Understand your health insurance coverage carefully 

Having an insurance claim denied is one of the worst things you can possibly experience. If you are not careful, it could set off a chain reaction that could result in you losing your coverage or incurring more costs down the road. 

Stay vigilant when it comes to taking advantage of your benefits—it is easier to get on top of things at every stage of treatment. While medical bills can be confusing, it is still important to submit your claim. After you do, make sure to follow up on whether or not your claim was accepted. 

If it gets rejected for one of these seven reasons, you can resubmit with an appeal. The more claims you get used to submitting, the easier it will be to identify mistakes and avoid them in future claims. 

 Contact us through our Live Chat 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,  Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   

It is loaded with options for people wanting to find a place to live that’s fun, cheap, and comfortable. 

Here is a list of the best cities to live and work in Southeast Asia: 

THAILAND 

The Thai economy has benefited greatly from the influx of foreign workers. These are expats who choose to live here not because they love beach parties and cheap massages, but because Thailand’s low cost of living and high quality of life make it a perfect place to live a location-independent lifestyle. 

The majority of expats arrive in Bangkok, the capital city, another expat favorite is Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand. It is a university town with a relaxed feel, surrounded by the glorious mountain scenery of the Chiang Mai Mountains. 

The cost of living in Thailand is cheaper than in most countries. And it’s especially cheap if you compare the prices to what they are in the United States. 

In terms of healthcare, it is not surprising that Thailand is becoming more popular for medical tourism which means expats can take advantage of the reputation of the Thai healthcare system without crowds of tourists in the waiting rooms. 

PHILIPPINES 

Aside from the many world-class islands, friendly locals, and vibrant culture, expats feel especially welcomed by the Filipinos’ sense of warmth and hospitality. The Philippines also has one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia and is ranked as the “Most Business-Friendly” country by the World Bank (2008). 

Filipinos do not discriminate in their workplaces. There are a lot of foreigners working in different companies and industries, even holding major positions and doing highly technical work. The BPO industry strengthens the Philippines’ workforce and multinational companies boost the economy. 

The cost of living in the country is reasonably low and varies depending on where someone lives. Manila is the most expensive area to live with $1,800 per month needed to live decently. Expat parents that stay in the Philippines for a prolonged period usually send their children to private or international schools mostly located in Metro Manila. 

While Philippine laws do not require expats to have health insurance while living in the country, medical treatments can be expensive without coverage.  

VIETNAM 

Vietnam has grown fast in recent years. Its economy grew 6.2% in 2017, the fastest rate of the past 10 years. The World Bank expects the economy to expand even more next year, with growth hitting 6.7%. 

The weather, low cost of living, vibrant culture, and steady improvements in the country’s infrastructure are attractive to expats. The average annual salary for an expat moving to Vietnam is US $78,750, which is higher than the global average of US $75,966. 

Vietnam’s healthcare services are competitive with those offered in other first-world countries, but the price is significantly lower. The country also has state-of-the-art dentists, medical clinics, and plastic surgeons. 

MALAYSIA 

Although Malaysia’s population of around 32 million is not the largest in Southeast Asia, its diverse demographics make it one of the most culturally vibrant countries in the region. 

Kuala Lumpur—a bustling multicultural hub—has long been home to expats and travelers from around the world. In the center of the city, you’ll find a buzzing central business district, filled with skyscrapers and shopping malls. 

The cost of living is 44% lower in Malaysia than in the UK, so you can afford a much grander lifestyle on a much smaller wage. 

For business owners and travelers, one of the perks of living here is that you can visit other countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia quickly because the airports are nearby. You can also fly directly to London, France, or China. 

The standards of their medical care are good, but the costs are high, so you need to have sufficient international health insurance in case you need care or treatment. 

CAMBODIA 

Economically, Cambodia is benefiting from its growing trade relationship with Vietnam and Thailand. Investors are now seeing increasing investment opportunities. This means that now there are a host of opportunities and businesses that can succeed and grow here. 

Currently, between 150,000 and 200,000 foreigners live in Cambodia. The living costs vary whether you live in the city center or rural areas. For example, in Phnom Penh, a person’s rent can range from $300 to $400 per month for a fully furnished two-bedroom apartment, while $150-$200 for a one-bedroom. Utilities are about $20 per month. 

Cambodia is a great place for expats to live and work, however, it’s important to be insured properly because their healthcare does not always get the best reputation. Many patients are going to Thailand for higher quality care and other significant medical issues. 

Our SEA Plans Exclusive for Residents of Southeast Asia  

For all expatriates, health is a top priority whether they are a young professional, going to retire, or even just staying for less than a year. They must protect themselves no matter where they go. Selecting the most suitable health plan is, therefore, the first concern for any expat who has just arrived in Southeast Asia.  

A+ International Healthcare provides international healthcare for globally mobile people around the world. With A+ Southeast Asia Plans, residents from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam can enjoy first-class international health coverage starting from $500,000 to protect them whenever and wherever they are.  

If you want lasting peace of mind, our plans are specifically designed for people concerned with their own protection as well as their family’s health. With a cover that gives security wherever you are, our plans ensure that your health comes first.  

Through our first-class health cover, we support your international mobility globally and around the clock. Visit https://aplusii.com/southeast-asia-plans/ for full details of each Southeast Asia Plan.  

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, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   

The first year abroad will bring new sights, sounds, and experiences. Mixed within these amazing adventures will be periods of homesickness, loneliness, and frustration. It’s during this time that some may take their health for granted and neglect a routine that keeps them physically and mentally fit. 

Can I move abroad during the pandemic? 

According to Johns Hopkins University, the COVID-19 has infected more than 210 million people and killed around four million people around the world as of date. So what if you are just about to start a new job abroad, and cannot postpone it? Will you go? 

If you’re planning a new expat adventure, you probably already knew to check for potential pandemic risks before moving. The most important question to ask yourself is: “Will I be able to survive well enough in my new country to see COVID-19 to its conclusion?” 

Specifically, make sure the country you’re planning on moving to has not experienced a large amount of infection rate compared to the other nations. 

There are also many things you must consider, including what type of visa will work best for your situation. Another thing is to have the proper documentation proving that you have essential business to take care of if you’re travelling outside your home. 

Surviving your first year abroad during a pandemic 

Adjusting to your new environment can be difficult, especially if you have gone through the trials of prolonged sleeping patterns,  disruptions,  and  irregular meals. Many countries are now creating safety policies for expats living abroad during these times. 

Here are a few tips and insights to help you survive your first year abroad during a pandemic: 

• Focus on your daily survival – Preparedness is the key to surviving a pandemic. The biggest danger during a pandemic is the lack of necessities. Food, water, medicine, and fuel are just a few of the items that may be nearly impossible to get your hands on during a massive emergency crisis. 

• Manage your expectations – Bear in mind that your first year abroad will probably be the most challenging. There is an intense, inevitable culture shock that accompanies the experience as you learn to live in a foreign environment. 

• Connect with your loved ones – Being new to a country where you don’t speak the language and have few friends can be lonely and depressing. While not being able to share your problems with others may cause you to feel isolated, it’s easy to fall into a deep depression when you isolate yourself. Make sure that you create regular social contact with other people, even if it’s online using sites like Skype or Viber. 

• Prioritize your health – Physical health is a major factor in dealing with ‘survival stress’. ‘Survival stress’ is the term used to describe how we deal with an unfamiliar environment and how to adapt to it: such as working with people you don’t know, eating food when you are not hungry, and speaking a language that isn’t yours – things that initially seem strange, but become so familiar to you that they are second nature. 

• Know their healthcare system – One of the biggest challenges that you are likely to face as an expat is the health system in your new country. Most expats are not fully aware of how different it may be from their own. Make sure that you understand what the healthcare system will provide and cover before you go. 

• Know the rules of your healthcare plan – It is therefore necessary to know how the healthcare plan in your destination country works. Will it cover your medical expenses if you need COVID-19 coverage? Once you have determined that your health insurance does indeed provide protection in case of a pandemic and medical emergencies, it is important to precisely understand its features. 

Worldwide protection for you and your family 

Expat life is usually filled with excitement and adventure. However, it’s important that you take time to consider what you might do in an emergency that could pop up at any time. 

Now more than ever, a healthcare plan is a great armor to protect you and your family from unexpected situations. As the COVID-19 pandemic still sweeps across the globe, getting worldwide coverage is even a greater investment to secure your savings and have peace of mind wherever you go.  

A+ International Health Plans cover COVID-19 treatment so long as you are in good health and with no pre-existing conditions. 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, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.   

Thailand is a popular travel destination for many reasons among locals, tourists, and expats. This country in Southeast Asia is often associated with its rich culture, street markets, breathtaking temples, and pristine beaches.  

Over the last 20 years, many surf camps in Thailand have emerged. With almost 2000km of stunning coastline, this country offers amazing surfing conditions all-year-round. It is now becoming a go-to destination to escape the crowds in their busy cities, enjoy the friendly vibes of the locals, and experience riding the waves of their famous beaches.  

Phuket is the surfing epicenter of Thailand and the home to a number of annual surfing contests. Their beaches generally get small waves that do not get any higher than 10ft which makes it a perfect surfing spot for beginner surfers and long boarders.  

However, all water-based sports come with their own set of risks. While surfing is fun, being caught up in the waves or riptides could lead someone to seek immediate medical attention. 

Common surfing injuries 

Whether you are a novice or a surfing expert, accidents can still happen out there in the waters. It is always better to be prepared and understand the risks before trying out this fun water activity. Here are the common surfing injuries: 

• Laceration of the feet and hands – This is a common injury among surfers because the surfboard’s fin has a very sharp edge that can easily cause a deep cut on the feet and hands. Surfers also need to watch out for sharp coral reefs underneath the ocean. Just one small slice from it can cause stitches and even infection. 

• Eye injury – Although this is a common surfing injury, it can be serious in some cases. The surfboard tip can result in permanent eye damage, and in rare cases, loss of vision. One tip is to get a soft tip nose guard to protect the surfer from the sharp or pointed nose of surfboards.  

• Head injury – Surfers are at risk for head traumas. The most common causes include collisions with the rails and fins and the surfer’s head blowing against a coral reef or ocean floor. They tend to come from collisions with the rails, fins, and nose. All of these can result in skull, face, and jaw fractures, concussions, and spinal injuries. Some extreme surfers even wear a helmet to help prevent head injuries.  

• Shoulder injury – When surfing, the most vulnerable body part to get overused is the shoulder. This usually leads to rotator-cuff impingement and tendinitis.  

Although surfing has a relatively low risk of injury, it is still recommended to get medical health insurance in hand if you plan to do this from time to time to protect yourself from costly medical emergencies. 

Our client’s fall shoulder accident while surfing in Thailand 

Our client is an expat who currently lives in Phuket, Thailand. Last April 2021, he dislocated his left shoulder while surfing. Because of severe pain, he was admitted to a Local Private Hospital for physical examination and treatment. The findings showed that he had 5 dislocations in his left shoulder and mild swelling on the right shoulder. 

His hospital expenses amounted to almost USD 3,500 but fortunately, his A+ health plan took care of all the medical expenses. This unforeseen situation is the reason why he got an international health plan which includes an Accident Cover. If our client had not opted for this medical insurance, he would have paid all these accident-related expenses out of his wallet.  

Get protected from accidents and emergencies worldwide  

We want our clients to focus on their recovery without worrying about the crushing weight of their medical expenses. It is crucial to have coverage that protects you wherever you are and whenever you need it. Beyond medical expenses, you can still enjoy financial stability and peace of mind.   

A+ International Health Plans include an Accident Cover which pays all the medical expenses due to an accident⁽¹⁾. For as low as $28/month, Easy Care+ 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.    

(1) Maximum reimbursement amount up to the plan limit.  

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, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.  

Some of the most common types of critical illness are: 

• Cancer 
• Heart attack 
• Stroke 
• Multiple sclerosis 
• Benign brain tumor
• Parkinson’s disease 

Some medical conditions can be prevented or at least diagnosed early as long as a person gives proper care and attention to his or her body. Doctors recommend that a healthy lifestyle, such as avoiding tobacco and alcohol, getting enough sleep, having a nutritious diet, and working out regularly, can prevent a lot of medical problems.  

Critical illnesses come with high costs 

With today’s medical advances, routine screenings, and better diagnostics, most people with a critical illness live longer these days and can survive it completely.  

But without a question, facing a critical illness can be extremely expensive and can result in poor credit or even bankruptcy without medical insurance.  

Here are some estimated costs that a person might need when dealing with a critical illness: 

What if you, or anyone close to you, got a critical illness like cancer? Are you mentally and emotionally ready for this? And as there are a lot of treatments and therapies, are you financially prepared? 

According to several studies by The MetLife, they found that: 

• 55% of full-time working Americans are highly concerned that a critical illness could affect the financial stability of their families. 

• Only 1/3 of working men and 1/5 of working women feel very confident that their rainy day fund could handle a financial emergency. 

• About two-thirds of workers say they have less than three months of savings available for a medical emergency. 

Why secure yourself while you’re healthy?  

No one ever wanted to experience a serious health condition or face accidents and emergencies. But with today’s increasing medical expenses such as private nursing costs, transportation to treatment centers, and experimental treatments, it is essential to have coverage that guarantees to pay most, if not all, of your medical bills.  

Moreover, protecting yourself even if you are healthy is security from unforeseen medical events. When you take care of your and your family’s health, it should not only involve the present times but also prepare for the things that may happen in the future, be it an illness or emergency. 

Protect your health and finances with A+ International Healthcare   

It is crucial to have coverage that protects you wherever you are and whenever you need it. With A+ International Healthcare, you get peace of mind knowing that you will not have to jeopardize your financial stability whatever happens to your health. And above all, you get to enjoy first-class healthcare and receive the necessary treatments for your recovery. 

A+ International Healthcare plans 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 through our Live Chat 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,  Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.