International health insurance (for expats) - how to find the best?

[asianmoustache]

Hi Moustachians, wondering whether someone has experience with this.
Basically, looking for the most cost effective health insurance solution (not being covered by any employer etc). How would you go about this?

Been looking at getting a policy with a fairly high excess and outpatient not being covered but with an increasing number of procedures being done as outpatient procedures now I am worried that there is quite a risk.
Any idea?

Thank you

PS: We are outside the US so won't have to deal with the horrendous US costs.....

[NewbieFrugalUK]

I don't know where you are but there is often a big price difference between cover just for one country and 'expat' insurance which covers lots of countries. Do check that! Obvs if your main country is an expensive one then it won't make that much difference but it might be worth investigating local insurance packages that are open to expats. Good luck! Oh,and from previous hard won experience, if you want it to cover pregnancy and delivery, it's expensive and difficult to get! ;)

[asianmoustache]

Thanks a lot. That's useful. We are in Singapore now so probably not the cheapest.
From your experience, how much would I need to budget. I feel paying over 1000 USD/month for a family of 4 is outrageous.....

[NewbieFrugalUK]

Wow that does sound outrageous! I was paying 2.5k USD for annual cover (in Sg) for one including expensive pregnancy insurance. That was 2 years ago but still. Definitely check local - have you looked at ntuc? It's all very complicated with co-pays etc so maybe get a broker? Good luck!

[NewbieFrugalUK]

Or move over the causeway? We pay 700 ringitts per month for a family of 4 (hospitalisation only) but still... :)

[asianmoustache]

thanks, will check NTUC. Good tip.

[windypig]

We are planning to expatriate to Honduras in the next few years - commenting to follow this thread.