One thing that you will be sure to need when moving abroad is health insurance. Illnesses and medical emergencies are always stressful, but they can be even more so when you are somewhere less familiar.
Health insurance will not only make sure you can pay for any treatment you may need, but it also puts you in touch with people who have a better idea how the system works in whatever country you choose to live in. Even if you never end up using it, the peace of mind this provides can make it worthwhile.
This short guide will explore the advantages of health insurance in more depth, and offer advice on how to find the right cover for you.
Do I really need to take out health insurance?
Paying the monthly premiums can be a pain, but, in short, yes you really do need to take it out.
Some countries, such as Thailand, make it a legal requirement for expats to have health insurance. They can either be covered by private health insurance, such as Pacific Cross health insurance in Thailand, or the country’s public health insurance scheme. The latter is often only available to those who are official residents or working full-time in the country.
Typically, those enrolled in public health insurance schemes experience longer waits for treatments, and the standards of public hospitals globally can vary widely. This is why many people living abroad opt for private health insurance, as well as the fact that this is cheaper in many countries than it is in their country of origin.
Tips for choosing the best plan
If you decide that private health insurance is the right choice for you, these are the tips that will help you choose the right package.
- Make sure it is comprehensive, which means that it should cover everything you might need, from outpatient and inpatient treatment options to any specialist treatments or prescriptions you require.
- Look for one that includes emergency transportation to other countries in cases where you might need major treatment quickly.
- A good policy should also allow you to seek treatment with the best hospitals, clinics, and specialists where you are. You are more likely to find doctors and staff who speak your language here than in public hospitals abroad, which obviously makes it easier to communicate and to get the right treatment.
- Your plan should be cost-effective. Foreign citizens often pay more than locals for medical treatment, and paying for major treatments out of pocket can be devastating for your finances. Make sure your plan covers all your medical fees. Paying the insurance premiums but not having to foot the hospital bill yourself typically works out cheaper in the long run.
- Look for quality customer service. Quality health insurance providers will have a 24/7 helpline for you to call and will make it easy for you to speak to a human. Their claims process should also be simple and fast.
While some countries provide basic health insurance for foreign visitors, those planning on staying longer term would be wise to consider private options. Use the tips above to find cover that gives you the peace of mind to truly enjoy life in your adopted home.