International health insurance, such as Genki Native, is designed for long-term travelers, expats, and digital nomads who need comprehensive health coverage while living abroad. Before purchasing, it's important to understand key factors that apply to most international health insurance plans. Below, we provide general insights while using Genki Native as an example.
1. Coverage Limits
β International health insurance typically covers hospitalization, emergency care, doctor visits, medications, and medical evacuation
β Some policies have coverage limits, while others offer unlimited medical coverage
β Genki Native Premium: Covers both outpatient and inpatient medical costs, including repatriation, with no maximum coverage limit
β Includes: Prescribed medication, tests, examinations, medical aids, and materials β Additional Coverage (Genki Native Premium): Covers preventive care (checkups & vaccinations) and alternative treatments (chiropractic, osteopathy, homeopathy, etc.)
2. Pre-Existing Conditions
π« Most international health insurance plans require medical assessments for pre-existing conditions
β Genki Native: Some pre-existing conditions may be covered, but the applicant must complete a medical questionnaire for insurer review
β Coverage approval depends on the insurerβs assessment
No international health insurance covers emergencies that occur before purchasing the policy
3. Travel Destination
π International health insurance should offer coverage in the countries where you plan to live or travel
π₯ Some insurers have regional limitations or restrictions
β Genki Native Premium: Provides worldwide coverage with no country exclusions
β Coverage in the USA & Canada: Limited to 30 days per insurance year, with a β¬250,000 limit, covering accidents and emergencies only
π Learn more: [What is covered (and not covered) by Genki Native?]
4. Duration of Coverage
π International health insurance is typically long-term
β Genki Native: Offers insurance without a fixed term β coverage can continue indefinitely
β Minimum contract duration: 12 months
β After 12 months, you can cancel anytime with one month's notice
5. Emergency Assistance Services
π 24/7 emergency assistance helplines are common in international health insurance
π₯ Some insurers provide direct billing for hospitalizations
β Genki Native: Offers 24/7 emergency hotline and direct billing for inpatient care worldwide
6. Policy Exclusions
β International health insurance excludes certain treatments and conditions
π Always review policy exclusions before purchasing
β Genki Native: Learn more about exclusions here: [What is covered (and not covered) by Genki Native?]
7. Repatriation Coverage
βοΈ Some insurers allow medical transport to another country with approval
β Genki Native: Allows transport to another country if approved by the insurer (Squarelife)
β Medical repatriation to your home country or country of expatriation is possible β Coverage continues after repatriation, unlike some international health insurance plans
8. Adventure Activities Coverage
π Many insurers exclude extreme sports
β Genki Native: Covers all sports and activities without exception
β Exclusion: Professional sports (if you receive monetary compensation, it is not covered)
9. Policy Cost
π° Price varies depending on coverage, deductibles, and additional benefits
β Compare plans carefully to ensure adequate coverage rather than focusing solely on cost
10. Claim Process
π Most insurers require medical invoices, diagnosis, and cost breakdowns for claims
β Genki Native: Claims are submitted via an online form in the Member Center
β Documents must include diagnosis, treatment details, period of treatment, and cost
11. Provider Network
π₯ Some international health insurers require network providers
β Genki Native: No restricted networkβyou can choose any doctor, clinic, or hospital worldwide
12. Policy Renewal and Cancellation
π International health insurance often provides continuous coverage
β Genki Native: No term limitβcoverage can last indefinitely
β Minimum contract: 12 months
β After 12 months, cancel anytime with one month's notice
13. Customer Reviews and Reputation
π Before purchasing, check customer reviews and insurance provider reputation β Genki Native: Verified reviews available on Trustpilot
14. Travel Alerts and Advisories
π Some insurers restrict coverage based on government travel advisories
β Genki Native: Provides worldwide coverage with no exclusions due to travel warnings
By understanding these key factors, you can choose the right international health insurance based on your long-term travel or expatriate needs. Genki Native is an example of a comprehensive, flexible solution for those living abroad.
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