As countries begin to reopen and travel restrictions ease, people are resuming travel plans including relocation. For expats and prospective expats, it is important to have global health insurance, especially in the age of COVID for any medical emergency you may encounter overseas.
There’s no denying that the COVID-19 global pandemic has changed every aspect of life for people around the world. The United States has the highest number of infections and deaths on the planet which places an enormous strain on our healthcare system. Add to that, Black Americans are disproportionately impacted by the virus at alarming rates.
Many people who contract COVID-19 are asymptomatic (experience no symptoms) or experience mild to moderate respiratory illness. However, those with pre-existing conditions are at greater risk of infection. While underlying conditions including diabetes, heart disease, and lung disease which are more prevalent among African-Americans, can increase susceptibility to the virus, a paper published in the Annals of Epidemiology concluded that in the U.S. “social conditions, structural racism, and other factors elevate risk for COVID-19 diagnoses and deaths in Black communities.”
Conducting a personal assessment of your medical history, future needs and the healthcare system of the country you’re interested in relocating to will help you determine the provider for your situation.
Does Expat Insurance Cover COVID-19?
Blaxit Global found several international health insurers that cover medically necessary claims related to COVID-19 but there are exclusions. Please note, this is not an exhaustive list, as most major health insurers offer international health plans for expatriates.
Aetna provides full reimbursement to members for COVID-19 testing and consultation. According to their website, there is no exemption for COVID-19 treatment.
Allianz Care does cover pre-existing conditions, however, all policies are subject to medical underwriting. They also offer a service to their members called Corona Check via Medi24.
Cigna Global covers medically necessary claims consistent with the terms of the insured’s plan but does not cover the cost of testing for persons who are asymptomatic.
COVID-19 Info for Expats
The COVID-19 virus is spreading around the globe at a rapid rate which means information regarding health protocol and travel advice is constantly evolving. Visit these resources for the most up-to-date information for current and prospective expats.
World Health Organization (WHO) https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html
COVID Near You
https://covidnearyou.org/us/en-US/
