10 key international health insurance terminology
When you live or work abroad for an extended period, it is very important to have expat health insurance. Which is why, understanding what it is all about is just as necessary. To help you out, we’ve put together some key international health insurance terminology so you can better understand how it works.
1. Insurance coverage area
This refers to the geographic region within which the benefits of the policy apply. It could also include the geographic area in which an insurance company is licensed to write insurance policies. The insurance coverage area is also termed as ‘coverage territory’.
2. Emergency
Emergency refers to an acute, serious illness or injury. It is an unexpected and unforeseen medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. Examples could include accidents, sudden onset illnesses like meningitis, etc.
3. Travel
This covers emergency medical and evacuation costs. Emergency dental treatment is also usually included in the cover, as are emergency transportation services.
4. Dental
Dental coverage of international health insurance extends to check-ups and tooth fillings. Sometimes, dental treatment for gum disease and fixing braces are also covered.
5. Optical
Optical coverage includes eye examinations and the required corrective glasses and contact lenses.
6. Well-being
In international health insurance, well-being refers to routine procedures like the regular annual check-up, pap smear or mammogram.
7. Pregnancy/Maternity
International health insurance covers routine pregnancies and childbirth. It can also extend to newborn care and complications, as well as pre and post-natal check-ups with your doctor.
8. Hospitalization
The hospitalization and surgical coverage come into effect when you are admitted in a hospital or require surgery. The coverage includes the expenses for the room, diagnostic tests, surgery, and medicine. You can choose to extend your coverage to include the person staying in the hospital to take care of you. The level of coverage will depend on the terms and conditions of the policy.
9. Inpatient
Inpatient benefits are what you receive as hospitalization and surgical coverage. It covers you only when you are in hospital, and does not include ongoing treatment after discharge.
10. Outpatient
This reimburses your expenses for any medical treatment that does not require you to stay overnight in the hospital. These include visits to a specialist or therapist or a general physician.
Now that you are familiar with these frequently used international health insurance terminology, you could learn a few more important terms that could prove useful to know.
At Expatmedicare, we believe in providing our clients with sound knowledge and impartial advice so they can make informed decisions. If you would like to know more about international health insurance or have any questions regarding the same, please contact us or visit our website.
