Expatsi can direct you to the countries with the best healthcare in the world. But we can’t all move to Singapore. (Where would we fit?) Wherever you go in the world, you need to be able to find and access healthcare services that suit your needs. These five tips can help.
1. Learn how to start receiving your healthcare services.
Universal and single-payer healthcare services can be life-changing, but expect to face specific processes and requirements to access them. In the UK, for instance, newcomers are subject to an “immigration health surcharge” of £1,035 per year to access the National Health Service (NHS). Spain, which views healthcare as a human right, requires no additional fees for immigrants — you’ll only have to contribute to social security or qualify for permanent residency to be covered, just like anyone else.
2. Check healthcare coverage for any disability or long-term condition you have.
Universal healthcare doesn’t necessarily cover every condition, so if you have a disability or long-term health condition, look into your chosen country’s health system to make sure you’re covered by their healthcare system. Most countries with public healthcare will cover most or all of your medical expenses. In Germany you pay into the public healthcare system that will cover most conditions, but you may want to supplement it with private insurance to fill the gaps. Brazil, on the other hand, covers all medical costs for free.
Unfortunately, not all countries are as welcoming to expats with disabilities. Some may place limitations on healthcare coverage based on disability, and some may decline residency entirely. The UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand may decline residency if they believe care for your disability would present a “significant cost” to the country. Australia and New Zealand recently increased their “significant cost” threshold to A$86,000 and A$81,000, respectively, over a period of five years.
3. Secure private health insurance, if necessary.
When a country’s public health system doesn’t cover all healthcare needs, they may recommend you carry private insurance to cover any gaps — or they may require it. Portugal’s universal health system covers all medical procedures, but private insurance would provide some added benefits like choosing your physician. The Netherlands funds all long-term treatments but requires private health insurance for others. Note: The cost of private insurance in other countries will probably shock you as an American. Your annual premium may be what you pay per month in the States.
Have all arrangements made for your private insurance before you arrive at your new home. Some countries require a waiting period, or at least a local address, before giving you access to their public healthcare. Don’t risk having an uncovered medical emergency in the time before your local coverage kicks in — make sure you have everything in place before setting foot in your new home.
We recommend Expat Insure for international insurance.
4. Take care of as many health concerns as possible before leaving.
Because of the possible gap in health coverage when you land in your new country, you’ll want to take care of everything possible before leaving the U.S. Have one last visit with your primary care physician and any specialists you see. Fill any prescriptions you have, and research to make sure those prescriptions are readily available in your new country — and if they aren’t, find alternatives that are.
Your physician in the U.S. might even be able to recommend a physician in the country where you’ll be living — it can’t hurt to ask. And be sure to look for a doctor who’s fluent in your native language. The doctor’s exam room isn’t the moment to realize Duolingo didn’t cover dolor intenso que se irradia.
For more info, watch our webinar on how to get healthcare around the world.
