International Health Insurance – Singapore Expat Insurance

1. What is International Health Insurance?


International health insurance is a type of insurance coverage that offers protection for individuals and families who are living or traveling abroad. It typically covers medical expenses, emergency services, hospitalization, and other related healthcare costs. This type of insurance can be purchased by individuals, expatriates, and companies for their employees who are working or residing in another country. It provides access to healthcare services and financial protection in the event of illness, injury or other medical emergencies while abroad.

2. How is International Health Insurance different from Domestic Health Insurance?

International Health Insurance provides medical coverage to individuals who live or travel abroad, while Domestic Health Insurance provides coverage to individuals within their home country. International health insurance is usually more comprehensive and covers a broader range of services, including emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains, while domestic health insurance may have more limited coverage options. International health insurance also typically has higher coverage limits and broader geographical coverage to include multiple countries. It may also include additional services such as translation assistance and access to international provider networks.

3. Which countries are covered under International Health Insurance?


International Health Insurance can be purchased that covers one or multiple countries, depending on the policy. Some insurers may offer coverage for every country in the world, while others may have restrictions regarding certain high-risk areas. Commonly covered countries include the United States, Canada, European countries, and various Asian countries.

4. What are the key benefits of International Health Insurance?


There are several key benefits of international health insurance, including:

1. Worldwide Coverage: International health insurance provides coverage in multiple countries around the world, allowing individuals to access healthcare services wherever they are.

2. High-Quality Healthcare: Most international health insurance plans offer access to top-quality healthcare facilities and services, ensuring that individuals receive the best possible care.

3. Flexibility: International health insurance plans offer a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Individuals can customize their coverage to include specific services or benefits.

4. Comprehensive Coverage: International health insurance typically covers a wide range of medical expenses, including hospitalization, outpatient care, prescription medications, and emergency services.

5. Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have comprehensive health coverage while living or traveling abroad can provide peace of mind and alleviate any worries about unexpected medical costs.

6. Quick Access to Care: With international health insurance, individuals can often bypass long waiting periods for routine medical procedures and consultations by accessing private healthcare providers.

7. Global Assistance Services: Many international health insurance plans include additional services such as medical evacuation and repatriation assistance, travel support, and 24/7 global helplines for emergency situations.

8. Portability: International health insurance allows individuals to move freely between countries without worrying about changes in coverage or having to reapply for new insurance in each location.

9. Family Coverage: Many international health insurance plans offer family coverage options, making it easier for families relocating together or traveling abroad together to have comprehensive health coverage under one policy.

5. Can expats purchase International Health Insurance in any country?


Expats can purchase international health insurance in most countries, but the availability and coverage of the plans may vary depending on the country. It is important for expats to research and compare different plans before enrolling in one, to ensure that it meets their specific needs and provides adequate coverage in their desired location.

6. Is maternity care covered under International Health Insurance?


Yes, most international health insurance plans offer coverage for maternity care, including prenatal visits, childbirth, and postnatal care. However, the specific coverage details may vary depending on the individual insurance plan and the country in which you are seeking maternity care. It is important to carefully review your policy’s terms and conditions or consult with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for maternity care before seeking treatment.

7. Are pre-existing conditions covered under International Health Insurance?


In most cases, pre-existing conditions are not covered under international health insurance plans. A pre-existing condition is any sickness, injury or medical condition that existed or was treated before the start of the insurance coverage. These can include chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes or high blood pressure.

However, some international health insurance plans may offer coverage for pre-existing conditions after a waiting period or with an additional premium. It’s important to carefully review the policy and speak with an insurance agent about any exclusions or limitations related to pre-existing conditions before purchasing coverage.

8. Will my premium increase if I make a claim on my policy?

It is possible that your premium may increase after making a claim on your insurance policy. This will depend on the specific terms and conditions of your policy and the circumstances surrounding the claim. Some policies may have a “no-claim bonus” or other rewards for not making claims, so if you do make a claim, these benefits may no longer apply and could result in an increase in your premium. Additionally, if you are deemed to be at higher risk for filing future claims, this could also lead to an increase in your premium. It’s important to review the details of your policy and speak with your insurance provider for more information.

9. Are prescription drugs and medications covered under International Health Insurance?

Yes, prescription drugs and medications are typically covered under International Health Insurance plans. However, coverage may vary depending on the specific plan and insurer. Some plans may have restrictions or limitations on certain medications, or require pre-approval for certain expensive drugs. It is important to carefully review the coverage details of any International Health Insurance plan before purchase to ensure that it meets your specific needs and requirements.

10. Can I choose which doctors and hospitals to visit with my International Health Insurance?


It depends on the specific policy and provider you choose. Many international health insurance plans offer a network of doctors and hospitals that you can visit for care, but may also allow you to choose out-of-network providers at a higher cost. It’s important to carefully review the details of your policy to understand your options for choosing doctors and hospitals.

11. Can I add my family members to my International Health Insurance plan?

Yes, some international health insurance plans offer the option to add family members to your plan. However, this will depend on the specific terms and conditions of your policy. Some plans may only allow spouses and dependent children to be added, while others may also include parents and other extended family members.

It’s important to carefully review the details of your insurance policy before adding family members, as this may affect your premium and coverage levels. You may also need to provide some information about your family members, such as their age, pre-existing medical conditions, and country of residence.

If you’re unsure whether you can add your family members to your international health insurance plan, it’s best to contact your insurance provider directly for clarification. They will be able to advise you on any additional costs or requirements for adding family members to your policy.

12. How do I file a claim for medical treatment with my International Health Insurance provider?

To file a claim for medical treatment with your International Health Insurance provider, follow these steps:

1. Contact your insurance provider: Get in touch with your international health insurance provider as soon as possible after receiving medical treatment. They will provide you with the necessary claim forms and guide you through the claims process.

2. Fill out the necessary forms: You will need to fill out claim forms that ask for details such as your personal information, policy number, and description of the services or treatment received.

3. Attach relevant documents: Be sure to attach all supporting documents, such as invoices, receipts, and medical reports, along with your claim form. These documents may be required to verify the details of your claim.

4. Submit the claim: Once you have completed the forms and attached all necessary documents, submit them to your insurance provider through their preferred method (online portal, email, fax or mail).

5. Keep track of your claim: After submitting your claim, make sure to keep track of its progress by regularly checking with your insurance provider.

6. Follow up if necessary: If there are any issues with your claim or if you haven’t heard back from your insurance provider within a reasonable timeframe, don’t hesitate to follow up and inquire about its status.

7. Receive reimbursement: If your claim is approved, you will receive reimbursement for eligible expenses according to the terms of your policy. If it is denied or partially covered, contact your insurance provider for an explanation and next steps.

It is important to carefully review and understand the terms of your International Health Insurance policy before filing a claim to ensure that all eligible expenses are covered and that you have followed the correct procedures for submitting a claim.

13. Are dental and vision care included in International Health Insurance plans?


Yes, many international health insurance plans include coverage for dental and vision care. However, the extent of coverage may vary depending on the specific plan and provider. You should review the policy details to confirm what is covered under your specific plan. In some cases, you may need to purchase add-on coverage for dental and vision care or opt for a specialized dental and vision insurance plan.

14. Does the coverage provided by International Health Insurance extend to emergency medical evacuation and repatriation services?

It is possible for International Health Insurance to provide coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation services, depending on the specific policy and plan selected. Some plans may include this coverage as a standard benefit while others may offer it as an optional add-on. It’s important to carefully review the details of your insurance policy to determine if these services are included and what limitations or restrictions may apply.

15. Can an expat enroll in an international health insurance plan after moving abroad?

Yes, an expat can enroll in an international health insurance plan after moving abroad. However, eligibility for enrollment may depend on factors such as country of residence, age, pre-existing conditions, and the specific terms and conditions of the insurance provider. It is important to research and compare different international health insurance plans before making a decision to ensure that it meets your needs and provides adequate coverage in your new country of residence.

16. What type of coverage limits should I consider when choosing an international health insurance plan?


When choosing an international health insurance plan, it is important to consider the coverage limits carefully. The limits you choose will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:

1. Medical Expenses: The coverage limit for medical expenses should be high enough to cover any unforeseen medical costs such as hospitalization, surgery, and other treatments. In some countries, healthcare costs can be very high, so it is important to have adequate coverage.

2. Emergency Evacuation: If you are living or traveling in a remote area or a country with limited medical facilities, it is important to have a higher coverage limit for emergency evacuation. This will cover the cost of transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility.

3. Repatriation of Remains: In case of a tragic event resulting in death while abroad, repatriation of remains coverage can cover the cost of returning the body back home.

4. Outpatient Treatment: If you require ongoing treatment for a chronic condition or regular check-ups with specialists, it is important to have sufficient coverage limits for outpatient treatment.

5. Maternity Coverage: If you are planning on starting or growing your family while living abroad, make sure your insurance plan provides adequate coverage for maternity-related expenses.

6. Pre-existing Conditions: Some plans may have lower coverage limits for pre-existing conditions or may exclude them altogether. Make sure you fully understand the terms and limitations before purchasing a plan if you have pre-existing conditions.

Overall, it is recommended to choose a policy with at least $1 million USD in coverage limits for medical expenses and emergency evacuation, but this can vary depending on your individual needs and location.

17. Are mental or behavioral health services included in international health insurance coverage?


It depends on the specific policy and coverage. Some international health insurance plans may include coverage for mental or behavioral health services, while others may not. It is important to carefully review the details of a policy before purchasing to determine what services are covered. Additionally, each country may have different regulations and standards for mental and behavioral health services, so it is important to research the local resources available in the area where you will be traveling or living.

18. Is there a waiting period before I can receive coverage for certain medical treatments under an international health insurance plan?

It depends on the specific international health insurance plan you choose. Some plans may have a waiting period for certain medical treatments, while others may not. It’s important to review the terms and conditions of your chosen plan to understand any waiting periods that may apply. Additionally, pre-existing conditions may also have waiting periods before they are covered under your plan.

19. Do I need to renew my international health insurance coverage every year?


Yes, typically international health insurance coverage must be renewed every year. Depending on the policy and provider, renewal may be automatic or require the policyholder to actively renew their coverage. It is important to carefully review your policy terms and renewal processes to ensure continuous coverage. Additionally, as plans and providers may change from year to year, it is recommended to review and compare different options at the time of renewal.

20. Will my international health insurance plan cover me if I am traveling to other countries outside of my assigned country of residence?


Yes, it is possible for your international health insurance plan to cover you while traveling to other countries outside of your assigned country of residence. However, coverage may vary depending on your policy and the country you are traveling to. It is important to check with your insurance provider beforehand to understand the extent of coverage and any limitations that may apply. Some policies may have restrictions on certain countries or regions, so it is important to review your policy carefully before traveling. It is also recommended to purchase additional travel insurance for comprehensive coverage while abroad.