International Private Medical Insurance
The world is shrinking.
And the expat population?
It’s booming.
According to research company Finaccord, there were 50.5 million expatriates worldwide in 2013.
That number? Expected to exceed 56.8 million by the end of 2017.
Saudi Arabia hosts the largest expat population at 8.9 million.
The UAE follows with 5.4 million.
And the US rounds out the top three with 4.8 million.
Meanwhile, India leads as the biggest source of expats globally with 7.6 million.
China follows with 3 million.
And the UK contributes 1.2 million.
Pretty substantial numbers, wouldn’t you agree?
The Healthcare Reality Shock for Expats
When you move abroad, what’s on your mind?
Housing options.
School choices for your children.
Building a new social circle.
But what about your health?
Those relocating from countries with free healthcare systems like the UK face a jarring reality.
“Free” healthcare? Often no longer applicable.
Private medical insurance? Sometimes mandatory.
And those without proper coverage?
They risk exposure to substandard healthcare systems that could leave them vulnerable precisely when they need protection most.
This is where International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI) becomes not just important but potentially life-saving.
Your Exceptional Financial Safety Net
Let me ask you a simple question:
What would happen if you faced a serious medical emergency while living abroad?
With IPMI policies, you’re typically protected up to an astonishing $1.6 million (or £1 million) annually.
Do you hope to never need this level of coverage?
Of course.
But isn’t it reassuring to know your safety net is substantial enough to handle virtually any health-related claim?
And it’s not just about the high financial ceiling.
Comprehensive Protection Beyond Basics
What exactly does an international plan cover?
Everything from everyday health concerns to serious conditions like cancer and AIDS.
An international plan typically includes:
- Core coverage for hospitalization and emergency care
- Outpatient services for routine doctor visits
- Specialist consultations when needed
- Cancer treatment coverage
- AIDS treatment coverage
Need optical coverage? It’s available.
Dental care? Protected.
Maternity services? Also covered sometimes as standard, sometimes as an add-on.
Western-style treatment is the norm, but many policies now include care indigenous to specific regions.
Chinese medicine in Asia? Often included.
Western-style treatment is the norm, but many policies now include care indigenous to specific regions.
Chinese medicine in Asia? Often included.
This comprehensive approach ensures you’re never left wondering: “But what if…?”
Access to Elite Medical Facilities Worldwide
International health insurers operate extensive networks of vetted medical facilities.
They identify, assess, and contract with enough hospitals and clinics to ensure you have access to treatment wherever you find yourself globally.
Every facility within these networks will be of a high standard and/or offer specialist treatment.
Insurers will often monitor the in-patient care of their customers and take action where this is sub-standard or inappropriate.
When you’re covered by an IPMI program, you can rest assured the healthcare you receive will be first-rate.
Are you required to use facilities within your insurer’s network?
No.
But insurers do encourage this practice—and for good reason.
True Borderless Protection
As an expat, mobility defines your lifestyle.
Your job might require:
- Relocation to a new country
- Frequent travel from a single base
- Extensive international business trips
In these circumstances, doesn’t it make sense to have healthcare coverage that moves with you?
Unlike local insurance which typically stops at national borders international coverage protects you wherever life takes you.
Traveling from Singapore to Nigeria and back home via the UAE in a two-week period?
No problem.
If you’re injured or fall ill in any of these locations, top-tier medical care remains accessible.
This portability factor? It’s invaluable for the modern global citizen.
24/7 Global Support When You Need It Most
Given the worldwide nature of expat life, specialized customer service becomes fundamental.
Imagine being injured in a remote region.
You want to:
- Contact your insurer quickly and easily
- Speak with someone in your native language
- Receive immediate assistance without delays
Fortunately, quality IPMI providers are set up to handle these exact scenarios.
Technology has simplified making contact and submitting claims.
Comprehensive networks ensure appropriate care is never too far away.
And when specialized attention is required but not easily accessible?
Evacuation services stand ready to transport patients where they need to be.
Technology has simplified making contact and submitting claims.
Comprehensive networks ensure appropriate care is never too far away.
And when specialized attention is required but not easily accessible?
Evacuation services stand ready to transport patients where they need to be.
Beyond Expats: Premium Care for Discerning Locals
The ability to access world-class care globally makes IPMI attractive not just to expatriates.
Wealthy locals especially those in developing countries with less advanced healthcare systems increasingly opt for international coverage.
Why is this happening?
Because knowing you can travel to another country for specialized treatment provides invaluable peace of mind.
Because continuous coverage during frequent travel eliminates worrying about healthcare gaps.
These benefits represent an extremely attractive proposition for those who prioritize health security.
Making Your Health a Priority
When relocating abroad, your mental checklist grows lengthy:
- Housing arrangements
- School choices for children
- Building a social circle
- Healthcare planning
But where does health fall on your personal list?
Shouldn’t it be near the very top?
Establishing appropriate international private medical insurance coverage ensures that if something happens hundreds or thousands of miles from home, quality medical care will be right where you need it.
Want to learn more about selecting the right IPMI coverage for your unique expat situation? Visit International SOS for additional resources on global healthcare options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes International Private Medical Insurance different from standard health insurance?
International Private Medical Insurance differs primarily in its global scope and comprehensive coverage. While standard health insurance typically limits coverage to a single country, IPMI follows you worldwide. It also provides higher coverage limits often exceeding $1.6 million annually and includes specialized services like medical evacuation that standard policies don’t offer.
Is International Private Medical Insurance worth the investment?
For expatriates and frequent travelers, IPMI offers significant value. Medical emergencies abroad can be extraordinarily expensive without proper coverage. Unlike travel insurance, which primarily covers emergencies, IPMI provides comprehensive protection for both emergency and routine healthcare needs while living abroad.
How do I access healthcare with an International Private Medical Insurance plan?
Most IPMI providers maintain extensive networks of hospitals and clinics worldwide. You’ll typically have access to a portal or app to find in-network facilities, and many providers offer direct billing arrangements so you don’t need to pay upfront for covered services. For out-of-network care, you’ll usually pay and then submit claims for reimbursement.
Does International Private Medical Insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Approaches vary by provider. Some IPMI plans exclude pre-existing conditions entirely, while others may cover them after a waiting period. It’s essential to be transparent during the application process to understand your specific coverage parameters.
Does International Private Medical Insurance include evacuation coverage?
Yes, most comprehensive IPMI plans include medical evacuation coverage, which can be crucial if you’re in a location without adequate medical facilities. This benefit typically covers transportation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or even repatriation to your home country if medically necessary.
Conclusion
As an expat, your healthcare needs transcend borders.
So should your medical coverage.
International Private Medical Insurance delivers the comprehensive protection, worldwide accessibility, and peace of mind essential for today’s globally mobile professionals.
Whether you’re relocating for career advancement, lifestyle enhancement, or new opportunities, your health security remains paramount.
IPMI ensures that no matter where life takes you, quality healthcare follows.
Isn’t that exactly the assurance you need in your dynamic global journey?
Ready to Secure Your Global Healthcare Coverage?
Take the first step toward comprehensive healthcare protection that follows you anywhere in the world.
Book a personalized consultation with David Eline, Founder of Health Compass today.
Our expertise helps you navigate the complex world of international healthcare with confidence.
Click Here to Schedule Your Meeting →
No obligation. Just clarity about your options and peace of mind about your healthcare future.
