10 questions to ask your International Health Insurer
Securing international medical insurance is a crucial step towards safeguarding your health and well-being, especially when abroad. However, the process of choosing the right plan can be overwhelming amidst the multitude of options available. It’s imperative to know beyond the initial price tag and understand the finer details that shape your coverage.
This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with the essential questions you need to ask when exploring international medical insurance. By knowing these critical aspects, you’ll not only ensure that you’re adequately covered but also make a wise financial investment in your health.
- What does the price include?
Most customers will prioritise getting the lowest possible price for their international medical insurance, but if a price sounds too good to be true then it probably is. Price is generally based on the type of cover that you choose, so don’t compromise on essential cover for the sake of keeping costs down.
- Are there any excesses to be paid?
Always check whether there is an excess on the plan, and when you will be required to pay this. If you will have to pay out every time you receive treatment, factor this into your budget as these costs soon add up.
- Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Many Health Insurers refuse to cover any pre-existing conditions. Check the specific terms and conditions of your policy if you have ongoing health conditions, to make sure these are covered by your prospective insurer.
- How are different types of cancer covered?
Many providers will only cover cancer treatment and other chronic conditions for up to 5 years under their standard policies. Check whether all necessary treatment will be covered by a standard policy or whether you would need to opt for a higher level of coverage. Also, consider your medical history and age and how that will affect your premiums or coverage. Certain groups of people are more prone to types of cancer than others. Men of African descent are susceptible to colon cancer, young women are at risk for borderline ovarian cancer in some cases, smokers are prone to lung cancer, and so on. You should see how all this affects your insurance policy’s terms and conditions before you sign on.
- Does your cover include dental expenses?
Before finalizing your medical insurance, it’s crucial to inquire whether dental expenses are included in the coverage. Confirm with the provider if a major treatment from a specialized dentist adept at Waterloo Dental practice (or a similar expert elsewhere) is covered by the policy. This will likely ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and limitations of your insurance plan.
- Which level of cover do you need?
Take time to find out exactly what each type of policy will cover, and if there are different levels of cover available, ask your adviser which would be most suitable for you. Different insurers might include different cover in their standard policies, so check the cover as well as the price if you are shopping around.
- Who will your assistance provider be?
Make sure that you have all of the necessary information, including the details of the assistance provider who you should contact if you require emergency care.
- Who is the policy underwritten by?
When you are choosing a Health Insurance policy, it is a good idea to find out who the underwriters of the policy are, so that you can check whether they are financially secure.
- Who else is covered under your policy?
If you have family members who will also require Health Insurance, check whether they can be covered under your policy as this is often cheaper than each taking out separate policies.
- Are you paying for cover that you don’t need?
Where possible choose an insurance policy that is tailored for your needs, to ensure that you are not paying extra for unnecessary benefits that are not relevant to you. Some insurers encourage you to take out numerous ‘add-ons’ to your policy, so make sure you know exactly what you are getting and whether you need it.