Tips for Accessing Health Insurance Abroad
Those choosing to live abroad know buying international health insurance is one of the priorities they want to check off their to-do list. Assuming you have already purchased a plan, here are some tips to help you utilize your coverage.
Choosing the right plan for your specific needs is one of the most essential factors in determining the quality of care you will receive. If you are living abroad, consider a comprehensive international medical plan that includes inpatient and outpatient care, emergency evacuation, repatriation, and medical transportation. You may also want to add optional benefits such as vision and dental if they are essential to you.
Many people only realize they lack the right coverage when they need care. Take the time to research your options and ensure that the plan you select provides the benefits you need for your specific situation.
Start by selecting the plan type that you need. Here are the primary options to choose from:
Recommended International Health Plans
The Cigna Global Medical plan is our most popular option, as it offers coverage to a wide range of nationalities and is a flexible plan that allows clients to tailor the benefits to their desired budget and coverage requirements.
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Flexible plans tailored to your needs and budget
- 1.5M+ providers in 200+ countries
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
The BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier plan is a premium plan designed for US citizens living abroad and foreigners residing in the USA, offering access to the best global network of hospitals and doctors.
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
- Unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
- Pre-existing conditions covered with prior insurance
- For U.S. citizens abroad or foreign nationals in the U.S.
The William Russell health insurance plan is a good, affordable option for those on a budget.
William Russell Health Insurance
- Worldwide coverage with access to private hospitals and trusted medical networks.
- Comprehensive benefits, covering inpatient care, outpatient treatment, mental health, and emergency evacuation.
- Flexible plan levels that let expats choose the coverage and budget that fit their lifestyle.
What to Do When You Get Sick or Injured
Your insurance company is available to support you whenever you need medical care. Your insurance card includes an emergency medical hotline that you can call to find a doctor or hospital for your condition. The insurer can direct you to providers who speak your language, meet their quality standards, and accept direct billing so you do not have to pay out of pocket.
In a genuine emergency, go directly to the nearest hospital and receive immediate treatment. Once you are stable, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to update them on your situation. They will guide you through the following steps and help coordinate any additional care you may need.
Wellness Care, Vaccinations, and Routine Checkups
The best way to utilize your global medical plan is to prioritize your health before you fall ill. Many plans include wellness and preventive services, such as annual physicals, vaccinations, medical screenings, blood work, and other diagnostic tests that help identify potential issues early. These services can help prevent minor concerns from developing into severe conditions.
Most insurers encourage preventive care, though access depends on the plan you choose. Make sure your policy includes these benefits if they are essential to you. Always review your coverage before enrolling and contact your insurer to confirm what is included before scheduling any treatment.
Communicate with Insurance Company Plan Administrators
If you need to use your international health insurance, keep your plan documents easily accessible. Healthcare providers are much more likely to treat you promptly when you can show proof of coverage. At a minimum, always carry your insurance card with you. It is also recommended to keep your insurer’s 24-hour emergency assistance hotline with you. This number is for emergencies only, such as finding a doctor, asking urgent questions, or notifying your insurer in advance of treatment.
Whenever possible, call your insurance company before receiving care. Their teams specialize in international medical support and can guide you through unfamiliar healthcare systems. If you cannot call before treatment, contact your insurer as soon as possible to report the situation.
In more complicated cases, written communication is beneficial. Keeping written records of conversations with providers and your insurance company can prevent misunderstandings later. If you speak with someone by phone, ask for their name and direct extension so you can easily follow up with the same person.
Choose a Medical Center and Physicians Within Your Provider Network
In an unexpected medical situation, most people do not have time to search for an in-network doctor. You may discover a clinic close to your home or office, but using a provider outside your insurance company’s network can lead to higher fees and slower claim processing. The benefit of choosing an in-network facility is that the provider can bill the insurance company directly, which means you do not have to pay out of pocket at the time of service.
If you choose an out-of-network provider, you will need to pay upfront and submit a claim for reimbursement later. This process can take time, especially if medical documents need translation.
Once you settle into your new home, make it a priority to research which doctors, clinics, and medical centers partner with your insurer. Doing this in advance makes the process much easier, particularly if a language barrier exists. Most insurance companies offer online directories that list their network providers both locally and internationally.
Pre-Certification of Medical Benefits
In some cases, typically before you are admitted to a hospital or undergo major surgery, you will get certain expenses approved by the insurance company. This process is called pre-certification. It is to your benefit and to the benefit of the insurance company to work together to get pre-certified before you incur significant expenses.
Keep All Bills, Records, and Documents
If you require medical care abroad, ensure that you document everything. Keeping thorough records protects your personal medical history and supports any claims you may need to file with your insurer. Always ask your doctor for a clear explanation of your diagnosis or a formal Physician’s Statement. It is also essential to request a receipt for every treatment or service you receive. This is especially important when you are required to pay upfront and then seek reimbursement later. Without proper documentation, the insurance company cannot verify the charges, and your claim may be delayed or denied.
Filing a Claim with Your Insurance Company
If you have received medical care and paid out of pocket, you can submit a claim to your insurance company for reimbursement. Each insurer has a specific procedure you must follow for your claim to be processed and approved. The most crucial step is to notify your insurer as early as possible and file your claim promptly. Some companies have time limits on how long you have to submit a claim after treatment, so acting quickly is essential.
To begin, ask your insurer for guidance on the correct filing process. Most companies now offer an online claims portal where you can upload your claim form and all supporting documents. You can also mail in the paperwork, but this option is slower and requires more effort. Filing online gives both you and the insurer a more straightforward way to manage and track the progress of your claim.
After your claim has been submitted, stay in contact with your insurer to ensure no additional information or documentation is needed.
Surprisingly, one of the most frequent problems with filing a claim is that the documentation of the medical expense does not have the correct name of the person filing the claim. This may occur due to language and cultural differences, but it is something to be aware of. Ensure that documentation of your expenses includes your name and, if possible, your insurance policy number. It is essential to tie the medical costs to you personally as accurately as possible.
Working with Your Insurance Carrier
Not all insurance companies operate the same way, but each one is committed to helping you get the care you need. It is essential to understand that every insurer has its own processes, coverage options, and plan structures. Choosing the right plan is your responsibility, and once enrolled, you should take full advantage of the resources and support teams your insurer provides.
If you work with one of our agents, they can guide you through the entire process, from selecting the right plan to assisting with claims. Request a quote today, and an agent will follow up with recommendations tailored to your home country and your destination.
Joe Cronin, President of ICI, is a leading expert in international health, life, and travel insurance. An MBA and founder of multiple global businesses, he helps expatriates and travelers access trusted, comprehensive insurance solutions worldwide.
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