Health insurance for Singapore expats

Whether you need medical attention just nearby in Novena or an unexpected hospital stay while on holiday in Hamburg, here’s why international health insurance for Singapore expats is ideal – plus, a look at an international health coverage plan to consider.

Health insurance for Singapore expats

#1 Global coverage and portability

Whereas local health plans cover medical care in Singapore only, international health coverage is designed to cover you globally. This means you’ll get care anywhere within your chosen region of cover.

What’s more, international health plans are portable. This means you can carry a plan with you to your next overseas posting, unlike employer-provided insurance plans.

This worldwide coverage with portability is, of course, ideal for expat families, frequent travellers and expats who plan to relocate in the future.

#2 More comprehensive coverage everywhere

International health insurance plans are more comprehensive than local ones, and often feature higher coverage limits. While this can cost you more in premiums, the peace of mind knowing you’ll be covered for any necessary treatment abroad is priceless.

And, for frequent travellers who find themselves in a foreign country without suitable treatment options available, having international health insurance can go a long way in providing the resources needed to relocate for proper treatment.

Even if you have travel insurance, you’ll still want the safety net of more extensive coverage that international health coverage offers. In fact, with international health insurance, you can schedule treatments or surgeries abroad in advance, and receive coverage for elective doctor visits overseas!

#3 A larger network of providers

While many local and employer-provided plans have limited networks of doctors and specialists to choose from, a major benefit of international health insurance is the freedom to choose your preferred doctors and hospitals, and from a wider range of providers. This is particularly important for expats who prefer private healthcare and private rooms, at hospitals like Gleneagles and Mount Elizabeth.

How to get insurance that’s best for you

As with any type of insurance, not all international health insurance plans are the same.

So, when picking the plan that’s best for your family, you’ll need to do your research, and factor in your lifestyle and needs. You’ll also want to consider any added perks provided as part of the plan. For example, wellness resources and digital apps can be major bonuses to take advantage of.

Here’s a look at an international health insurance plan and the extra benefits it offers for expats.

Cigna Healthcare Singapore

Taking a whole health approach that encompasses physical, mental, emotional and financial wellbeing, Cigna offers three international medical insurance plans (Silver, Gold and Platinum) that can be customised to meet the needs, circumstances and budgets of individual policyholders.

All of Cigna’s international medical insurance plans already provide coverage for essential hospital stays, and inpatient and outpatient treatments. This includes surgeons and specialist consultation fees, private room accommodations and medicines, and cover for cancer and mental health care. The Gold and Platinum plans even include cover for maternity and newborn care.

Policyholders can also supplement their chosen Cigna Global Individual Plan with extra cover. This includes International Evacuation and Crisis Assistance Plus, life coaching, career development and counselling services. There is also a Life Management Assistance programme to help with relocation logistics and more while getting settled in Singapore.

And, with access to medical support in over 200 countries and territories, policyholders can rest easy knowing they’re taken care of anywhere. In fact, Cigna has a global network of over 1.7 million medical partnerships. This includes 175,000 mental and behavioural healthcare providers, and 14,000 facilities and clinics!