Healthcare For Expats In USA

expat network

Healthcare For Expats In USA

Despite the high standards of medical facilities in the US, healthcare can still be very costly in comparison to most developed countries, and the system can be quite confusing for expats.

By Cigna Global

A comprehensive health cover is essential for expatriates relocating to the US in order to avoid colossal hospital bills. Anyone without health cover runs the risk of not getting medical attention without payment in advance, or having to pay huge bills for emergency treatment.

US healthcare in a nutshell

The US offers different health insurance types, and there is a plethora of insurance companies with different exclusions and special conditions. The Affordable Care Act – a recent healthcare reform – has made efforts to give more people in the country access to healthcare, and to protect patients with pre-existing conditions from being denied coverage.

The system comprises two bodies; PPOs (Preferred Provider Organizations) and HMOs (Healthcare Management Organizations). Both offer subscription to their own medical network and discounted treatment rates. Furthermore, the federal government offers two programmes for people who cannot afford healthcare – Medicare, aimed to assist retired citizens; and Medicaid, designed to help those with a low income.

Expats living in the US can choose to purchase an international policy, or to get cover from the different health insurance types in the country. The Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality offers guidance for choosing a health plan.

In most cases, expat employees are able to take advantage of their employer’s group health plans, which can often be extended to cover their family.

Why expats choose IPMI policies

Individual private medical insurance (IPMI) policies can often be advantageous to expats, in comparison to local policies. The international coverage provided by IPMI policies is especially convenient for globally mobile citizens, as they can offer access to healthcare in multiple countries.

Medical insurance is strongly advised for expatriates relocating to the US. A proper health cover can not only keep you away from expensive hospital bills, but also ensure that you will receive proper medical treatment when you need it – and give you complete peace of mind.

Cigna Global specialises in expatriate healthcare. We know that expats like you have high expectations in terms of standard and flexibility, which is why we continue to work towards improving our range of healthcare options to meet your needs. For more information on Cigna Global, or to get a quote, visit www.cignaglobal.com

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.