Finding somewhere to live is usually high on the priority list when you’re moving overseas and, unfortunately, healthcare rarely gets the same attention. It’s easy to assume you’ll work it out once you’ve arrived, but if you need to see a doctor, refill a prescription or continue treatment for an existing condition, knowing how the system works beforehand can make those first few weeks much simpler.
No two countries organise healthcare in quite the same way. Some rely more heavily on public services, others on private providers — and even the process of booking an appointment or collecting medication can feel unfamiliar. Understanding what to expect before you relocate means there’s one less thing to figure out while you’re settling in.
For people living, working or studying overseas, healthcare planning can also include arranging the right health insurance. Depending on where you’re moving and how long you’ll be there, that could mean finding cover that gives you access to healthcare locally. With Cigna Healthcare you can explore plans designed for internationally mobile individuals.
Cigna Healthcare has more than 230 years of experience and supports customers across more than 200 countries and jurisdictions. Its health plans are designed for internationally mobile individuals, with options for those who need worldwide cover as well as plans focused on their country of residence and home country for return visits.
Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement or study, these are the healthcare considerations to add to your moving checklist.
Know before you go
The first doctor’s appointment often comes sooner than expected, whether it’s a prescription renewal, a child’s ear infection or an unexpected injury. Before you relocate, find out how people typically access healthcare in your destination. Specifically, you’ll want to consider if you need to register with a primary care physician, whether you can book directly with a specialist (or if a referral is required) and how repeat prescriptions are handled.
If you already receive regular treatment, check whether your medication is available locally and whether you’ll need copies of your medical records before you travel. Answering these questions ahead of time can make the transition much smoother if healthcare becomes a priority soon after you touchdown on new soil.
Prepare for the long haul
Health insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all, particularly if you’re moving overseas. Someone relocating for a two-year work assignment may have very different needs from a retiree settling abroad permanently or a student spending a semester overseas.
Cigna Healthcare offers a range of health plans designed around different circumstances. International plans are intended for globally mobile individuals, while regional plans are designed for customers who require cover in their country of residence and home country for return visits.
In some countries, private healthcare may also play a bigger role than you’re used to, meaning access to certain doctors, hospitals or treatments may depend on the type of cover you have.
Thinking about how you’ll be living, travelling and accessing healthcare can help determine which plan may be most appropriate for your circumstances.
Support when living overseas
Finding the right plan is only part of the picture. Knowing where to turn when you have a question or need medical advice can be just as valuable, particularly while you’re still getting used to a new healthcare system.
For more than 60 years, Cigna Healthcare’s Global Individual Health business has specialised in supporting people living and working overseas. Customers can access 24/7 multilingual service centres for help with healthcare and policy queries, while eligible customers can also use Global Telehealth to speak virtually with a doctor in their preferred language, subject to service availability.
Planning for what comes next
Your healthcare needs may look different a few years after moving abroad than they did on day one. Choosing cover that continues to meet your needs is an important part of planning for life overseas.
If you’re managing an existing medical condition, Cigna Healthcare’s plans may offer cover for pre-existing conditions where eligible, subject to medical underwriting. Its international health plans also have no upper age limit. For application or renewal, this is subject to policy terms and conditions.
Putting healthcare on your relocation checklist before you leave can help you feel more prepared when settling into your new home.
If you’re preparing for an international move, explore more about Cigna Healthcare’s plans and support for people living overseas via the website.
