Healthcare and Insurance for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Philippines

1. What healthcare coverage options are available for U.S. citizens and green card holders in Philippines?

U.S. citizens and green card holders in the Philippines may be eligible for a variety of healthcare coverage options depending on their individual circumstances and international insurance needs. These options can include international health insurance plans, local health insurance plans, employer-provided plans, and government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. There are also a variety of private health insurance options available, such as group plans through employers or self-purchased plans. Additionally, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is the country’s universal health care system which provides coverage for some medical services at reduced prices to qualifying individuals including U.S. citizens and green card holders.

2. Can U.S. citizens and green card holders purchase private health insurance in Philippines?

It is possible for U.S. citizens and green card holders to purchase private health insurance in the Philippines, however, it is important to note that the coverage provided may not be the same as that of U.S. health insurance policies. U.S. citizens and green card holders should research the coverage provided by the specific policy in order to ensure they are aware of any potential gaps in coverage that may exist.

3. What public healthcare programs are available for U.S. citizens and green card holders in Philippines?

The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines does not provide medical insurance or health care. Citizens of the United States and Permanent Resident Card holders are advised to obtain private health insurance in the U.S., including evacuation and repatriation coverage, before their travel to the Philippines.

The Philippine government offers a number of affordable health care programs for its citizens, such as PhilHealth. However, these programs are not available to U.S. citizens or green card holders. The Department of Health also provides limited health services through its network of hospitals and clinics, but these are usually reserved for Filipino citizens and permanent residents with valid documents.

4. Is travel insurance available for U.S. citizens and green card holders visiting Philippines?

Yes, U.S. citizens and green card holders traveling to the Philippines can purchase travel insurance. Travel insurance will help protect you from losses resulting from medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and more. Check with your insurance provider for more information to see what type of coverage and assistance is available for travelers to the Philippines.

5. Are pre-existing medical conditions covered under health insurance in Philippines?

Yes, pre-existing medical conditions are usually covered under health insurance in the Philippines. However, coverage may vary depending on the particular policy. It is recommended that you contact your insurance provider for more information about the specific coverage you have.

6. Are there any restrictions on medical care for U.S. citizens and green card holders in Philippines?

Yes, there are restrictions on medical care for U.S. citizens and green card holders in the Philippines. Medical care is limited for U.S. citizens in the Philippines and they are generally not eligible to receive coverage through the Philippine healthcare system. U.S. citizens and green card holders may only receive medical care at private clinics or hospitals that accept international insurance policies, however, these may be very expensive. For this reason, it is strongly recommended that all travelers to the Philippines purchase travel insurance prior to their trip.

7. How does the cost of healthcare in Philippines compare to other countries?

The cost of healthcare in the Philippines is much lower than in other countries. According to a World Bank report, the average cost of healthcare in the Philippines in 2017 was $238 per capita, compared to an average of $1,680 per capita in the rest of the world. The cost of healthcare in the Philippines is particularly low when compared to more developed countries; for example, the average cost of healthcare in the United States is $10,348 per capita.

8. Does the government offer subsidies for medical care in Philippines?

Yes, the government offers subsidies for medical care in the Philippines. These subsidies are available through the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). PhilHealth provides financial assistance to qualified individuals and families to help pay for their medical expenses.

9. How does health insurance coverage work for U.S citizens and green card holders living in Philippines?

U.S citizens and green card holders living in the Philippines are generally not eligible for health insurance coverage through the U.S government. However, they may be eligible for health insurance through private insurers or employers. Additionally, if a U.S citizen or green card holder is employed by a company in the Philippines, they may be eligible for health insurance through their employer.

10. Are there any special considerations for healthcare coverage for retired U.S citizens and green card holders living in Philippines?

Yes, U.S. retired citizens and green card holders living in the Philippines should consider their healthcare coverage options carefully. Health insurance plans that are accepted in the United States may not be accepted in the Philippines. Expatriate health insurance plans are available that provide coverage for medical care and emergency services in the Philippines as well as in other countries. These plans may also cover pre-existing conditions, and can provide coverage for routine check-ups and lifestyle-related services such as vaccinations or dental care. Additionally, there are government-subsidized healthcare programs, such as Medicare and Social Security, available to U.S. citizens living abroad. These programs can provide financial assistance for certain medical expenses. Finally, U.S. citizens and green card holders may be required to pay taxes on any income they receive from the United States while living abroad, which could have an impact on their healthcare coverage options.

11. Does Philippines have a law protecting citizens from high healthcare costs?

Yes, the Republic Act 11223 was passed in February 2019, which provides Filipinos with Universal Health Care. This law seeks to ensure that healthcare services are made available to all citizens, regardless of their economic status. The law also provides protection against high healthcare costs by capping costs for certain services.

12. Are prescription drugs covered under health insurance plans in Philippines?

Yes, prescription drugs are covered under health insurance plans in the Philippines. However, the extent of coverage and the type of drugs will vary depending on the health insurance plan.

13. What is the out-of-pocket cost for U.S citizens and green card holders receiving medical care in Philippines?

The out-of-pocket cost for U.S citizens and green card holders receiving medical care in Philippines varies depending on the type of medical care being received. Generally speaking, healthcare costs in the Philippines are much lower than those in the U.S., so it is likely that most out-of-pocket costs will be relatively low. It is advised to contact your insurance provider to determine exact costs.

14. Are there any government-funded clinics or hospitals available to U.S citizens and green card holders in Philippines?

Yes, there are government-funded clinics and hospitals available to U.S citizens and green card holders in the Philippines. The Department of Health operates a range of public health services for these groups, including primary health care services, screening programs, immunizations, and other specialized medical services. There are also U.S. Veterans Affairs clinics available throughout the country that provide medical and mental health services to U.S. veterans.

15. Does Philippines have a national health service that provides free medical care to all citizens?

No, the Philippines does not have a national health service that provides free medical care to all citizens. However, the Philippine government does provide some free health services to certain groups, such as pregnant women, children under five years of age, and senior citizens.

16. Are dental services included in health insurance plans offered to U.S citizens and green card holders in Philippines?

No, dental services are not typically included in health insurance plans offered to U.S citizens and green card holders in the Philippines.

17. Are there any tax benefits or incentives offered to U.S citizens and green card holders to purchase health insurances in Philippines?

No, there are no tax benefits or incentives offered to U.S citizens and green card holders to purchase health insurances in Philippines.

18. Is mental health care covered under health insurance plans in Philippines?

Yes, mental health care is covered under health insurance plans in the Philippines. The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) provides coverage for inpatient and outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluation, individual and family counseling, psychotherapy, and hospitalization, among others.

19. What is the process for filing an insurance claim for medical treatment received by a U.S citizen or green card holder in Philippines?

The process for filing an insurance claim for medical treatment received by a U.S citizen or green card holder in the Philippines typically requires the following steps:

1. Contact your insurance provider to inform them you are filing a claim.

2. Get a copy of the medical records from the treating doctor and hospital in the Philippines, which should include copies of test results, receipts, and any other supporting documents.

3. Ask your insurance provider what forms you need to fill out in order to submit the claim.

4. Fill out the necessary forms and submit them along with the medical records and any other documents required.

5. If necessary, provide additional information or answer questions from your insurance provider about the medical services received in order for them to approve the claim.

6. Check on the status of the claim and follow up with your insurance provider as needed.

20. How does the cost of healthcare compare with other countries for U.S citizens and green card holders visiting or living in Philippines?

The cost of healthcare in the Philippines for U.S citizens and green card holders is generally lower than what they might expect in their home country. For typical medical procedures, such as doctor’s office visits, laboratory tests, and diagnostic imaging, the costs are significantly lower than in the U.S. In addition, pharmaceuticals and drugs are less expensive in the Philippines which can be a great cost saving measure for those on long term medications.