International Health Insurance – Myanmar Expat Insurance

1. What is international health insurance and why do I need it?


International health insurance is a type of insurance coverage that provides medical and healthcare benefits to individuals who are living, studying, working or traveling outside of their home country.

There are several reasons why international health insurance may be necessary:

1. Offers comprehensive coverage: International health insurance typically offers more extensive coverage than local health insurance plans, including emergency medical treatment, routine check-ups, prescription medication, specialist care, and other medical services.

2. Provides global coverage: With international health insurance, you can access medical treatment in multiple countries and regions around the world. This can be particularly important if you are a frequent traveler or live in different countries throughout the year.

3. Meets visa requirements: Certain countries require visitors to have health insurance before they can enter the country. International health insurance can help meet these visa requirements and ensure smooth entry into your destination country.

4. Protects against unexpected expenses: Accidents, illnesses or unexpected medical emergencies can happen while you are abroad. International health insurance can provide financial protection against the high cost of these events.

5. Allows for continuity of care: If you have an ongoing medical condition or require specific treatments, international health insurance can ensure that you have access to continuous care no matter where you are in the world.

6. Provides peace of mind: Having international health insurance can provide peace of mind knowing that you and your family will have access to quality healthcare no matter where life takes you.

In summary, having international health insurance is important because it provides comprehensive coverage for unexpected medical expenses and allows for continuity of care while living or traveling abroad.

2. How does international health insurance differ from local health insurance?


International health insurance is designed to provide coverage for individuals who are living or traveling abroad, while local health insurance is typically limited to coverage within the country where the policy is purchased.

Some key differences between international and local health insurance include:

1. Coverage Area: International health insurance provides coverage for medical expenses incurred anywhere in the world, including the home country and other countries. Local health insurance only covers for medical expenses within the specific country where the policy is purchased.

2. Network of Healthcare Providers: International health insurance often has a larger network of healthcare providers compared to local health insurance, as it needs to provide coverage across multiple countries. This can be helpful when seeking medical treatment in a foreign country, as there may be a wider range of options available.

3. Cost: The cost of international health insurance is generally higher than local health insurance due to its wider coverage area and potential for more expensive medical care in certain countries.

4. Exclusions: Depending on the policy, international health insurance may have exclusions for pre-existing conditions, adventure or high-risk activities, and/or war or political unrest in certain countries. Local health insurance may have more tailored coverage options based on specific diseases or risks prevalent in that country.

5. Benefits: International health insurance typically offers more comprehensive benefits compared to local policies, such as emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, and 24/7 assistance services for language translation and finding medical care.

In summary, international health insurance provides broader coverage and more extensive benefits compared to local policies, but at a higher cost. It also allows for access to healthcare services across multiple countries, while local policies are limited to one specific country. It’s important to carefully consider your individual needs before deciding which type of insurance is best for you.

3. Can I use my international health insurance in Myanmar?


It is possible to use international health insurance in Myanmar, but it largely depends on the specific insurance plan and provider. Some international health insurance plans may have coverage restrictions for certain countries or regions, including Myanmar. It is important to check with your insurance provider beforehand to confirm whether they cover healthcare expenses incurred in Myanmar. Additionally, it is recommended to purchase travel medical insurance specific to Myanmar in order to have more comprehensive coverage while traveling in the country.

4. What are the benefits of having international health insurance while living in Myanmar?

There are several benefits to having international health insurance while living in Myanmar, including:

1. Access to Quality Healthcare: International health insurance will provide you with access to high-quality medical facilities and services in Myanmar. This is especially important if you have a pre-existing condition or require specialized treatments that may not be available through the local healthcare system.

2. Comprehensive Coverage: Most international health insurance plans offer comprehensive coverage for hospitalization, outpatient care, prescription drugs, and emergency medical evacuation. This ensures that you are protected against unexpected expensive medical costs.

3. Worldwide Coverage: With international health insurance, you are covered for medical treatment not only in Myanmar but also in other countries around the world. This is particularly useful if you travel frequently or plan on visiting other countries during your stay in Myanmar.

4. Language Assistance: Many international health insurance providers offer multilingual support, making it easier for expats who do not speak the local language to communicate with doctors and healthcare providers.

5. Peace of Mind: Having international health insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that you and your family will be taken care of if any unexpected illness or injury occurs during your time in Myanmar.

6. Customizable Plans: You can choose an international health insurance plan that best fits your needs and budget. Some plans allow you to add additional coverage for dental, vision, or maternity care.

7. Assistance with Coordination of Care: International health insurance providers often have resources to help coordinate your care and treatment plan in case of a serious illness or injury.

8. Financial Protection: Medical costs can quickly add up, especially if you require hospitalization or emergency evacuation. With international health insurance, you can protect yourself from financial burden by having coverage for these potential expenses.

9. Local Support Services: Some international health insurance providers offer support services such as 24/7 emergency assistance hotline, appointment scheduling assistance, and concierge service to help navigate the local healthcare system.

10. Ability to Maintain Coverage: If you plan on moving to other countries after your time in Myanmar, many international health insurance plans offer the option to continue coverage, ensuring that you have ongoing access to quality healthcare wherever you go.

5. Are there any specific requirements or restrictions for obtaining international health insurance in Myanmar?

There are no specific requirements or restrictions for obtaining international health insurance in Myanmar. However, it is recommended to thoroughly research and compare different insurance plans and providers before making a decision. It is also important to understand the coverage and exclusions of the policy to ensure it meets your individual needs.

6. Will my pre-existing conditions be covered under my international health insurance policy?


It depends on the insurance provider and the specific policy. Some international health insurance policies may cover pre-existing conditions, while others may not. It is important to carefully review your policy and speak with your insurance provider to understand what is covered before purchasing a policy.

7. Is emergency medical evacuation included in international health insurance coverage?


It depends on the specific policy and coverage chosen. Some international health insurance plans may include emergency medical evacuation coverage, while others may offer it as an optional add-on benefit. It is important to carefully review the details of your policy or speak with your insurance provider to determine if emergency medical evacuation is included in your coverage.

8. How do I choose the right international health insurance plan for me in Myanmar?


There are a few key factors to consider when choosing the right international health insurance plan for yourself in Myanmar:

1. Coverage needs: Start by assessing your specific medical needs and potential risks. This can include factors like age, pre-existing conditions, and the type of activities you will be doing while in Myanmar.

2. Network of providers: Check whether the insurance provider has a network of healthcare providers in Myanmar, as this can make it easier to access quality care and may also affect the cost of treatment.

3. Cost: Consider your budget and what you can afford in terms of monthly premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs.

4. Comprehensive coverage: Look for a plan that offers comprehensive coverage for both routine healthcare and unexpected medical emergencies.

5. Emergency evacuations: Make sure the plan includes emergency evacuation coverage, as this is crucial in case of serious injury or illness that requires urgent transport to a hospital outside of Myanmar.

6. Policy exclusions: Review the policy exclusions carefully to understand what is not covered by the insurance plan.

7. Reputation and customer service: Research the reputation and customer service history of the insurance provider to ensure they have a good track record of prompt claims processing and customer support.

8. Other benefits: Consider any additional benefits offered by the plan such as dental coverage, maternity benefits, or mental health services.

It is also recommended to consult with an experienced insurance broker who specializes in international health insurance plans to help you navigate through your options and find the best plan for your needs in Myanmar.

9. Do I have to pay upfront for medical treatment or will the insurance company cover it directly?


It depends on the type of insurance policy you have. Some policies require you to pay upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement, while others allow the insurance company to pay the medical provider directly. It is important to review your policy carefully or contact your insurance provider for clarification.

10. Does international health insurance cover dental and vision expenses too?


It depends on the specific policy and provider. Some international health insurance plans may include coverage for dental and vision expenses, while others may only cover emergency dental treatment. It is important to carefully review the policy details and contact the insurance provider for more information about coverage for these types of expenses.

11. If I travel outside of Myanmar, will my international health insurance still provide coverage?

In most cases, your international health insurance will continue to provide coverage when you travel outside of Myanmar. However, it is important to check with your insurance provider to confirm their policy on coverage for international travel.

12. Are there any exclusions or limitations I should be aware of in my international health insurance policy?
Like any type of insurance, international health insurance policies may have certain exclusions and limitations. Common exclusions may include pre-existing conditions, certain high-risk activities (such as extreme sports), and chronic conditions that require ongoing treatment.

It is important to carefully review your policy and understand its terms before purchasing it to ensure that it meets your specific needs and provides the coverage you require.

13. Can I purchase an international health insurance policy while I am already abroad?
Yes, it is possible to purchase an international health insurance policy while you are already abroad. However, the process may vary depending on the insurance provider and country you are in. Some insurers may require proof of residency or a local address in order to process your application. It is best to check with your desired insurance provider for their specific requirements and procedures for purchasing a policy while abroad.

14. Can I use my international health insurance in combination with local health insurance?
In some cases, yes, you may be able to use your international health insurance in combination with local health insurance. This can provide additional coverage and potentially reduce out-of-pocket costs for medical treatment.

However, it is important to carefully review both policies to understand their coverage areas and potential overlaps or gaps in coverage. Some policies may also contain coordination of benefits clauses that specify which insurer will be the primary payer for certain services.

15. How do I file a claim with my international health insurance provider?
Filing a claim with your international health insurance provider typically involves submitting documentation such as receipts or invoices from medical treatment, along with a completed claim form provided by your insurer. Some insurers also offer online portals or apps to streamline the claims process.

It is important to keep all medical receipts and paperwork in case you need to file a claim. Your insurance provider may also have specific timelines for submitting claims, so it is important to check your policy for details.

12. How long can I stay covered under an international health insurance policy in Myanmar?

Generally, an international health insurance policy will have a maximum coverage period of one year. However, some policies may allow for renewals and extensions.

13. Will my family members also be covered under my international health insurance plan?


Yes, most international health insurance plans will typically allow for family members to be covered under the same plan. The specifics of who can be covered (e.g. spouse, children, parents) and at what cost may vary among different insurance providers, so it’s important to carefully review the policy details before enrolling your family members. Additionally, if a family member has any pre-existing medical conditions, they may need to undergo a separate underwriting process or be subject to exclusions or higher premiums.

14. What is the claims process like for international health insurance in Myanmar?


The claims process for international health insurance in Myanmar may vary slightly depending on the specific insurance provider, but generally follows these steps:

1. Seek medical treatment: In case of a medical emergency or illness, seek immediate medical treatment at a recognized healthcare facility.

2. Contact your insurance provider: As soon as possible, contact your insurance provider to inform them of the situation and to get guidance on the next steps.

3. Fill out claim form: Your insurance provider will provide you with a claim form to fill out. This form requires information such as personal details, policy number, and details of the treatment received.

4. Gather supporting documents: You will likely need to submit supporting documents to accompany your claim form, such as medical reports, receipts for medical expenses, and proof of payment.

5. Submit your claim: Once you have filled out the claim form and gathered all necessary documents, submit them to your insurance provider according to their instructions.

6. Wait for approval: The processing time for claims can vary, but you may need to wait for some time before receiving approval from your insurance provider.

7. Receive reimbursement or direct payment: Depending on your policy and the terms of your coverage, you may receive reimbursement for your medical expenses or have them paid directly by your insurance provider to the healthcare facility.

It is important to carefully review your policy before seeking any medical treatment in Myanmar to ensure that you understand what is covered and what documentation is required for making a claim. It is also recommended that you keep copies of all documents submitted in case there are any issues with your claim in the future.

15. Are there different levels of coverage available for international health insurance plans in Myanmar?

Yes, there are different levels of coverage available for international health insurance plans in Myanmar. Most insurance providers offer a range of options with varying levels of coverage and premiums to meet the needs and budgets of different individuals and families.

Some common levels of coverage offered by international health insurance plans in Myanmar include:

1. Basic Coverage: This type of plan typically offers coverage for essential medical services, such as hospitalization, emergency care, and some outpatient treatments.

2. Comprehensive Coverage: This level of coverage includes all the benefits offered by basic coverage plans, along with additional benefits such as prescription drugs, preventive care, diagnostic tests, and specialist consultations.

3. Premium Coverage: This is the highest level of coverage available and includes all the benefits offered by comprehensive plans as well as additional options like dental care, maternity cover, alternative treatments, and wellness programs.

It’s important to carefully consider your healthcare needs and budget when selecting a level of coverage for your international health insurance plan in Myanmar. It’s also recommended to review the terms and conditions of each plan carefully to ensure it meets your specific requirements.

16. Can I add additional coverage options, such as maternity or mental health, to my plan?


It depends on your insurance provider and the specific plan you have. Some plans may offer additional coverage options as add-ons, while others may not. It is best to check with your insurance provider to see what coverage options are available to you and how much they will cost. You may also want to consider switching to a plan that already includes the coverage you need, if that is an option for you.

17. Do premiums vary based on age, location, or other factors?

Yes, premiums for insurance policies can vary based on a number of factors, including age, location, gender, health status, occupation, and type of coverage. These factors help insurers to determine the level of risk associated with insuring an individual or property and adjust the premium accordingly.

18. Are there any exclusions or limitations to coverage under an international health insurance policy?


Yes, there may be exclusions or limitations to coverage under an international health insurance policy. These can vary depending on the specific policy and insurance provider, but common exclusions or limitations may include:

1. Pre-existing conditions: Some policies may have a waiting period or exclude coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.

2. High-risk activities: Certain activities such as extreme sports or adventure travel may not be covered under a standard international health insurance policy.

3. War and terrorism: Some policies may not provide coverage for injuries or illnesses that occur during acts of war or terrorism.

4. Self-inflicted injuries: Coverage may not be provided for any injuries resulting from intentional self-harm.

5. Substance abuse treatment: Treatment for drug or alcohol addiction may be excluded from coverage under some policies.

6. Experimental treatments: If a treatment is considered experimental or investigational, it may not be covered by the insurance policy.

7. Elective procedures: Cosmetic procedures or other elective treatments may not be covered by the policy.

It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of an international health insurance policy to fully understand what is covered and what is excluded before purchasing it.

19. Will my premium increase if I need to make a claim?

The answer to this question can vary depending on the specific insurance policy and company. In some cases, making a claim may result in an increase in your premium because you are considered a higher risk to insure. However, many insurance policies have protections against rate increases after a first claim or offer discounts for claim-free periods. It’s best to consult with your insurance company directly to understand how your premium may be affected by making a claim.

20. Are there any discounts available for purchasing a long-term or family policy?


Yes, many insurance companies offer discounts for purchasing long-term or family policies. These discounts may vary depending on the specific company and policy, but could include a discount for paying for a longer policy term (such as one year or more) upfront, or for insuring multiple members of a family under the same policy. It’s worth shopping around and asking about potential discounts when considering a long-term or family policy.