Are you considering using a broker to help you choose the right international medical insurance cover for your individual needs? If you are, then you’re likely to have plenty of questions on subjects like how the process works and what type of support they offer.
In this blog, we breakdown some of the key topics to discuss with your broker so you feel confident and informed.
With their wealth of industry knowledge and expertise, a broker’s purpose is to find cover that matches your requirements and budget.
Health insurance brokers compare plans across the market for suitable options and may be able to negotiate premiums on your behalf, which can save you time and money. The process can also involve checking whether a policy meets the specific requirements for a visa for your destination country.
They handle all aspects of your application, from collecting information to answering questions about forms or medical questionnaires, ensuring everything is accurate to prevent delays. The broker then coordinates with the insurance provider to set up your plan and support you during the onboarding period, checking you’re satisfied with coverage.
Their role can extend beyond assisting you with purchasing a plan, providing assistance whenever you need help navigating your cover.
Whether updating your details or answering your questions, brokers can make managing your cover simple and straightforward. They’re able to handle any issues that arise during your policy term directly with your provider, giving you peace of mind that everything is taken care of.
Then when the time comes for the plan’s renewal, your broker is on hand to guide you seamlessly through the process. This involves reviewing your cover to see if it still meets your needs and comparing it against the wider market to make sure you’re getting the best value. They can work with your current provider to secure the most suitable renewal terms or guide you through switching to a new plan if you decide to change.
Find out more about the benefits of using a medical insurance broker by clicking here.
Since no two international health insurance plans are the same, it’s essential that you understand the plan’s scope of coverage.
International health insurance can offer you many benefits, from doctor and specialist consultations to hospital treatment, mental health support and emergency medical evacuation. Your insurance broker can talk you through the different cover options and explain any terms you don’t understand.
In addition to the plan’s main features, you could enjoy a range of extras with the cover, such as remote medical consultations or second medical opinion services (SMO). Find out more about these additional services by reading our blog here.
Though plans offer many benefits to policyholders, it’s important to remember that there could be some exclusions. Common types to be aware of include pre-existing medical conditions and cosmetic surgeries, so be sure to ask about anything you’re unsure about and carefully read through all documentation before purchasing a plan.
Another important question is what factors may affect the cost of your cover, with your broker there to help you find a plan that fits your budget.
The cost of your insurance can vary depending on several factors, including your age, cover area and chosen level of cover. A private health insurance broker can explain how your personal requirements may impact the premium amount so you can make an informed decision.
They can talk you through ways to lower your premium amount as well, such as adding a voluntary excess or excluding regions where healthcare can be costly, like in the USA or the Caribbean.
It’s useful to ask your broker how the cover works in practice, so you know what to expect should you need to use it.
Understanding how the provider manages claims and policy administration is beneficial and may play a key role in your decision-making. This may include asking:
When evaluating providers, it’s also important to understand the scope of the provider’s network and how flexible your options for medical treatment will be. Check whether the insurer provides access to a global network of hospitals and doctors, if there are any limitations on the facilities or countries where coverage applies, or instead offer you the freedom to choose where you receive care and who from. You should also ask your broker whether seeing a specialist requires a referral, as this can influence how quickly you’re seen and how much you pay for the visit.
