International Travel Health Insurance Systems In Various Countries

Not all healthcare systems are created equal-what works for one country might not for the other. Each country has its own healthcare system, and knowing about the way international health insurance works at the destination will help international travelers. This is especially true of people who will be traveling overseas for more than a month.

Usually, the international health insurance plan holder will pay the amount and later be reimbursed, but it also depends on the insurance company. While a combination of public and private funding is most common, some countries work on a 100% private insurance system.

One of the countries with an almost complete private system is the United States. In spite of two of the major healthcare programs-Medicare and Medicaid-being administered by a government agency and 16% of the GDP spent on healthcare, increasing insurance rates are a cause of major concern. Private international health insurance is a necessity for U.S. visitors.

In the United Kingdom, however, 89% of the population depends entirely on public insurance, which usually excludes eye and dental treatment. Some purchase additional private coverage for expanded coverage. If you are an international visitor to the United Kingdom, you must purchase international health insurance prior to landing.

The system of health insurance followed by France is social health insurance, and covers all residents. The system derives its funds from compulsory contributions by residents. Many residents buy additional private insurance. If you are planning to visit France, check whether you need a Schengen visa, and also whether your international health insurance policy meets prescribed standards.

The Singaporean dual healthcare system seems to be the toast of the world. While the country spends just 3.8% of its GDP on healthcare, it is one of the healthiest countries to live in. Because of the dual system, check what your international travel health insurance covers, and how to file a valid claim. In Singapore, most primary care is private and most hospital care is public.

Other countries have systems somewhere in-between the ones mentioned above. In India, for example, healthcare is provided free of cost at public hospitals; however, the quality of public healthcare is considered poor. Regardless of the destination, international travel insurance and knowledge of the terms and conditions set forth are a must.

For coverage abroad, there are a range of short-term and long-term international health insurance plans, underwritten by renowned companies such as Lloyd's, Nationwide, and AIG.

Ray Sondeo often writes about international insurance.