Expatriate health insurance - frequent questions answered

Our independent services are free to UK nationals.
We are independent brokers paid by the insurance companies and working to a strong code of professional conduct to protect our international clients
We will check the value of your international insurance policy against the current market. We offer a fast quote service by e-mail around the world

Why should an expatriate use international medical insurance companies to provide them with expat medical insurance, rather than local companies?

Local policies are not always cheaper - especially not in most European countries nor in the US - and because these insurance companies are locals, they are not always available 24 hours basis. Also expatriates moving from one country to another and buying local cover would need multiple policies, potentially getting less value for money.

International insurance or travel insurance - which is best?

The most important obstacle against using travel policies is that they do not cover all medical treatment. Travel schemes are not tailored to meet the needs of the resident expatriate. They are unlikely to have an accredited international hospital network and direct settlement will not probably exist. In addition, time restrictions on travel schemes, placing a maximum period on the amount time that can be spent overseas, will mean the expatriate will not be appropriately covered.

What are the general exclusions of international PMI policies?

There are certain medical conditions that nearly all insurers do not cover, such as addictive conditions, fertility treatment, cosmeti surgery and drug abuse. Most pre-existing conditions will also not be covered.

Why is emergency evacuation insurance important?

It allows the policyholder to be airlifted to the nearest centre of medical excellence, until recovery and returned to their home or place of work when better. This is extremely important if an expatriate is in medical danger in a country where the nearest hospital could be many miles away.

Is emergency evacuation needed for Europe?

No, as above there is only a necessity where medical facilities are not close to hand.