Medical Cover for Living Abroad in South America
South America is a beloved destination for expatriates and international citizens living abroad, captivating global nomads, extreme sports enthusiasts, and luxury lovers alike. The continent is an ideal destination for seniors retiring abroad due to the low cost of living. But whether your stay is short or long, having quality medical insurance in South America is essential.
South America’s Healthcare Challenges
Universal public healthcare exists in many South American countries. Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago all have some form of universal healthcare. However, in all South American countries, there is a considerable gap in service between urban and rural areas. Buenos Aires’s Hospital Italiano, Las Condes’ Clinica Las Condes, and Sao Paulo’s Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein are regional centers for excellent care and services. However, in small villages and isolated cities, services are more rudimentary. Approximately 30% of the population does not have access to healthcare due to economic circumstances and 21% are impeded by geography. And several countries in South America have particular health concerns or important information to note while organizing your travel health plan.
Recommended Health Insurance Plans for Living in South America
For individuals and families moving to Latin America, there are a range of plans to cover you worldwide, including in your country of residence and your home country. If you are looking for a global medical plan while living in Latin America, we recommend the following plans.
For all applicants, the Cigna Global Medical Plan is one great option, offering a flexible plan design and a high level of customer service.
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- The flexibility to tailor a plan to suit your individual needs
- Access to Cigna Global’s trusted network of hospitals and doctors
- The convenience and confidence of 24/7/365 customer service
For US citizens living abroad, another great option is the GeoBlue Xplorer plan. You will have a high-quality plan along with up to 9 months of coverage in the United States.
Xplorer Worldwide Medical Plan
- Premium Benefits, Coverage and Service
- Define your deductible and prescription benefits
- For Foreigners in the US or US citizens abroad
Related: The 10 Best International Health Insurance Companies
Insurance in Brazil
Patients who want to have private International Health Insurance plan can choose from local plans available in Brazil or international plans which they purchase before their trip. Local private plans in Brazil are more expensive than you might think – up to 30% more expensive than what’s sold in other South American countries. There is also no guarantee that the private facilities provided will be up to the standards that expats expect. Privacy and language services may be limited.
Insurance in Ecuador
Ecuador’s visa requirements change regularly, so it is important to check with your local Ecuadorian embassy or consulate for the latest updates. As of December 2021, proof of international health insurance is not required to obtain a temporary or permanent residence visa. However, insurance is required in order to obtain a cedula, which is a government ID. You are required to show your cedula to open a bank account, sign a lease on an apartment, when you use a credit card, when you enter and exit the country and in many other situations. Therefore, if you are planning to live in Ecuador, you will need medical insurance.
William Russell Health Insurance
- William Russell plans cover you internationally, both in the country you reside in and wherever you are traveling to (addons required for USA)
- Their network includes 40,000 hospitals around the world.
- Plans have comprehensive cancer coverage, including genome testing.
Insurance in Bolivia
Relaxed, friendly, welcoming Bolivia is a favorite among travelers. However, there are two specific health concerns travelers should be aware of. The capital city, La Paz, is the highest capital city in the world. At nearly 12,000 feet above sea level, altitude sickness is one common ailment affecting travelers. Make sure your plan includes coverage for this illness.
As well, the 43 mile long North Yungas Road, which, connects La Paz and Coroico, is another concern. It’s better known as Bolivia’s “Death Road”. For decades, it was considered the most dangerous road in the world. Some 300 people died there each year! Safety conditions marginally improved in 2009, when the road acquired a second lane and a new, safer highway was built nearby, but extreme danger remains. It’s a beloved destination for extreme cyclists. If this applies to you, triple-check your extreme sports travel insurance coverage. This destination might be too extreme for any policy!
Insurance in Colombia
Tropical diseases are widespread in Colombia. Malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever are serious health concerns. Chagas disease, West Nile virus, rabies, and even snakebites are prevalent as well. Speak with your travel medicine team about appropriate vaccines and preventative medication. But in good health news, the country’s once sky-high murder rate has fallen by half since 2002 and its healthcare system is now ranked 22nd in the world. On the flip side, Colombians leaving the country should look at the health insurance options for Colombian expats.
Health and Medical Plans in Venezuela
There’s no getting around it: Travel to Venezuela is risky. Medical care in Venezuela isn’t just limited. The entire system is in crisis. 20 years ago, record investments and a commitment to universal healthcare saw wonderful improvements in life expectancy and infant mortality rates. Today, many hospitals lack soap and reliable running water. Money can help. Tourists with positive cash flow will be able to afford necessities that are out of reach from local citizens. This includes antibiotics, bandages, and, yes, soap. However, Venezuela’s troubles mean that many doctors, specialists, nurses, and support staff have fled to other countries. As such, you may have to be evacuated to another country for even moderate health concerns. If you need to travel here, insurance is an absolute must.
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- The flexibility to tailor a plan to suit your individual needs
- Access to Cigna Global’s trusted network of hospitals and doctors
- The convenience and confidence of 24/7/365 customer service
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