Do I need travel insurance while working abroad?
Moving abroad for work or study is becoming more and more popular as the world becomes more mobile. In fact, there are already around three million Canadians living in foreign lands-an experience which can be very rewarding, but also comes with its own unique challenges.
Aside from adjusting to a new culture and dealing with the inevitable twinges of homesickness, there are administrative issues to contend with too-one of which is healthcare.
Why might healthcare be a concern?
Healthcare provisions vary from country to country and while one foreign land might offer free healthcare for all who reside there, others will expect you to have fully covered medical insurance. You might not anticipate falling ill on your travels with an unexpected illness, or when an unfortunate accident may rear its head. The best thing to do is be aware of what medical help is available, and what kind of insurance or treatment you will need to pay in advance.
It is important to remember that while your provincial or territorial health coverage protects you in Canada, it will not support you if you fall ill while abroad. Furthermore, your provincial health care will no longer be valid after living abroad for around six to eight months.
What should I do before I leave Canada?
There are a couple of things you should get in place before you set off on your adventure. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) recommends that you and any family members visit a travel health clinic or your family doctor at least six weeks before departure. They will conduct a full health assessment to ensure you’re safe to relocate and determine any necessary immunizations and medications or educate you on precautions to take to avoid disease abroad.
It is also recommended you visit your dentist and optometrist.
How will insurance help me?
Having insurance in place will provide adequate coverage, towards medical, dental and emergency health related costs. However, some packages also offer the options of additional coverage towards protecting your personal belongings-just like when on vacation, you never know what may go awry when abroad.
There are many specialist insurance agencies on the market who offer specific insurance packages for living abroad-these are usually different to a standard travel insurance package. Be sure to explore all of your options and talk with a broker to determine the best one for you.
What kind of insurance do I need?
Whether you’re moving abroad temporarily for study or plan to be there long-term, it is vital you purchase the best insurance you can afford. Be sure that you fully understand all of the terms of your policy.
Some employers may offer insurance as a perk of the job, so if you are working abroad speak with your employer to see what help there may be for you.
There are two main types of health-care insurance for those living abroad: supplemental and replacement.
Supplemental insurance: provides additional benefits to standard policies covered by a provincial or territorial plan.
Replacement insurance: provides full coverage for those who stay abroad long enough to no longer be eligible for their Canadian plan. When investing in this type of coverage be sure to include pre-existing medical conditions and other requirements that you may need. Ensure your policy is in place before leaving Canada, and that is is accessible in your destination country.
A few crucial things to check are covered by your policy include:
Your policy covers you even if your provincial or territorial healthcare has become invalid
24-hour/7-days-a-week emergency contact details and translation services (if necessary) from your host country
When payment for medical cost is made-either upfront with a later reimbursement, or immediately
Covers both medical and dental care
Covers premature births and neonatal care
Provides for medical evacuation back to Canada if necessary
Covers pre-existing medical condition treatment
Provides coverage during trips abroad or back to Canada
What if the country I go to offers free health care for residents?
Some countries offer medical care free for their residents. While the terms and conditions of this healthcare varies from country to country, one example is the UK. The UK offers care from their National Health Service (NHS) which is accessible when living in the UK. In order to utilize their healthcare, part of the immigration application requires a healthcare surcharge. This payment is made upfront and allows you access to medical treatment for the duration of your stay in the country.
If you are unsure of the conditions surrounding healthcare in your new country check with the government website and speak with your insurance provider.