Medical Insurance

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Here at Kwiksure we understand how important it is for you to understand every aspect of your insurance plan. We often receive questions regarding the benefits and conditions associated with international health insurance plans. Below are listed some of the most commonly asked questions about medical insurance.

    What is an international health insurance plan?

    International health insurance plans offer comprehensive medical coverage anywhere in the world. These plans are appropriate for any individual, family, or group requiring health insurance cover overseas. Benefits can be tailored to meet personal requirements, such as coverage for certain geographic areas, maternity and dental treatment.

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    Who can buy an international health insurance plan?

    Anyone who resides outside of their home country is eligible for international health insurance. An individual, family or group can get international health insurance. Some plans are fully portable to one's home country as well.

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    Is it better to buy a travel insurance plan or an international health insurance plan?

    This really depends upon the length of stay overseas. Travel insurance plans only provide cover for up to 1 year. They are intended for overseas travel and provide good cover in the event of an emergency. Travel plans, however, cannot be renewed and therefore are not appropriate for long-term cover. Annual international health insurance plans are best for long-term, comprehensive cover. For individuals who are permanently relocating abroad, an annual international health insurance policy is recommended.

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    How long does an international health insurance plan last?

    Most international insurance plans are guaranteed renewable for life. Each year the plan must be renewed by the policyholder and insurance company. The advantage of an international health insurance plan is that should you develop a chronic condition during your first year of coverage, you remain eligible for continuing coverage.

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    If I move back to my home country, will I still have coverage?

    Most international health insurance plans will continue to provide cover if you return to your home country. It ultimately depends on the insurance policy conditions and the regulations of your home country.

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    Can our company get international health insurance?

    Companies are eligible to receive international health insurance. Group policies are often taken by companies seeking health insurance cover for employees moving abroad, or already residing overseas. Quite often group policies allow greater flexibility than a standard individual policy. They are an attractive option for small-to-medium size enterprises.

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    What is the maximum age to get an international health insurance plan?

    The maximum age of enrolment on an international health insurance plan will change between insurance companies. In some instances it is possible to obtain coverage for individuals who are up to 80 years old, however this is dependant on the insurance company.

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    If I live in the USA can I get coverage with an international health insurance plan?

    If you are an expatriate residing in the USA then you can obtain a quality international health insurance plan. Plans that provide coverage in the USA should comply with HIPPA and COBRA regulations. If you are an American national living in the USA, then it may be possible for you to obtain an international health insurance plan if you have previously been denied coverage by a domestic insurer.

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    Can Americans buy international health insurance plans?

    If an American lives outside the United States more than 6 months out of the year, then they may buy international health insurance plans. There are plans offered from certain international health insurance companies that provide cover to Americans returning to live in the United States. With these particular plans, Americans can enjoy continuous cover living abroad and at home.

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    What is the difference between an inpatient plan and an outpatient plan?

    An inpatient plan will provide cover for treatment where an overnight stay at a hospital or other medical facility is medically necessary. Inpatient plans provide cover for major surgeries, emergency evacuation, and post hospital care. An outpatient plan will cover you for treatment where hospitalization is not necessary and will typically provide cover for doctor's visits, annual checkups, and specialist consultations.

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    Can I go anywhere in the world for medical treatment?

    Cover for medical treatment provided by an international health insurance plan is typically divided into geographic coverage areas. "Worldwide" coverage allows you to receive at any medical facility in the world. "Worldwide excluding the United States" provides cover for medical treatment received anywhere in the world outside of the United States. Plans are offered in this manner because of the exceptionally high cost of healthcare in the United States. Emergency medical treatment will always be covered no matter where in the world you may need it.

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    Can I choose my doctor and hospital?

    International health insurance plans will allow you to seek treatment from the doctor or hospital of your choice. Prior to moving or traveling abroad, your insurance company can provide you with a list of doctors and hospitals for the area in which you will be living. Your international health insurance plan will also provide coverage allowing you to seek treatment in another country.

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    What is a deductible? How will it affect my international health insurance plan?

    A deductible is a fixed amount that the policyholder pays out-of-pocket towards the cost of any treatment that they receive. Deductibles are useful to manage the annual premium of your international health insurance plan. By choosing a higher deductible, you can reduce your annual premium without sacrificing any benefits. Click here to learn more about deductibles.

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    Can I receive dental coverage with my international health insurance?

    Dental benefits are offered as part of many international health insurance plans, or as an additional option that can be added to the policy. A waiting period may be associated with dental benefits, but it depends on the particular conditions of the international insurance health company.

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    Can I get coverage for pre-existing conditions?

    Pre-existing conditions will normally be excluded form coverage under an international health insurance plan for the first 24 months of a policy. This period is known as a 'moratorium'. If, during the moratorium, no treatment is received or symptoms of the condition are displayed, then the insurer may reconsider coverage. Some insurers may offer to cover a pre-existing condition for an increased annual premium. This is known as a 'premium loading'. Coverage for a pre-existing condition through premium loading will be on a case by case basis and will not always be an option for many pre-existing conditions.

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    How do I make a claim?

    In the event that you need to make a claim on your international health insurance plan you should contact Kwiksure as soon as possible. We will provide you with the necessary information that you need to submit a claim. Outpatient treatment will typically be paid for up-front by the policyholder, and after the submission of a claims form, will be reimbursed. Inpatient treatment which is scheduled in advance can typically be settled directly between the hospital and the insurance company; however you should notify the insurer as soon as possible to ensure that this is the case.

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    How is my claim processed?

    The claims process begins once the completed claims form, and any supplementary documentation are received. Reimbursement usually takes around 10 business days. Incomplete paperwork and pre-existing conditions are the most common causes of delayed reimbursements.

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    What is not covered by an international health insurance plan?

    International health insurance plans will commonly include a number of general exclusions or conditions that will not be covered under the policy. A number of common exclusions include; cosmetic surgery, experimental treatments, HIV/AIDS related treatments, and acts of war. It is important to note that pre-existing conditions will also typically be excluded from coverage unless otherwise stated by the policy. Please read through your policy conditions to understand what is excluded from coverage under your plan.

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    Are sports, hobbies, and activities covered?

    Non-professional sports and recreational activities are usually covered by international health insurance plans. Certain 'extreme' sports like bungee-jumping, mountaineering, and parachuting are not covered. You should inform your international health insurance company of any sports or recreational activities in which you actively participate in order to ensure coverage.

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    Will my premium increase?

    International health insurance policy premiums increase as you age and also in accordance with worldwide medical cost inflation. International health insurance premiums are never affected by any claims that you may have made in the previous policy year. Local insurance premiums can increase dramatically each year if in the previous year you claimed for expensive treatment. International health insurance is a far more reliable and predictable investment in health insurance cover.

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    How do I pay for my insurance plan?

    International health insurance companies will accept payments via bank transfer, credit card, cash or check. After an application has been accepted, most insurance companies will allow up to 21 days for payment. Some insurance companies may require payment prior to commence of the insurance plan. If you are unhappy with your insurance plan, many international health insurance companies will allow cancellation of the plan and provide a refund without charge.

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