Repatriation insurance for expats is an additional protection that should not be overlooked.
Most expatriates know about the importance of choosing good coverage for their health expenses abroad.
But they do not always think about the issues that can result from an accident or an illness that cannot be treated locally.
In this article, you will find some aspects you need to take in mind when choosing repatriation expenses insurance.
What Is the Best Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance?
The Importance of Having Good Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance
Repatriation insurance must be as complete as possible, to cover all situations. Even the most unlikely or dramatic ones.
It should not only cover the return of an insured person to his or her country by medical plane or regular flight.
All the costs of this procedure must be covered, from the place where the patient is initially taken care of, to the center where he/she will be treated in their home country.
This includes transportation to and from the airports. And also the equipment and health care personnel needed for this transportation.
You must also consider the cost of any rescue and search operations that may be required in the event of an accident. As well as the cost of hospitalization.
The same applies in the event of death. The insurance must cover the repatriation of the body, but also the related funeral expenses.
Is an Evacuation Policy Preferable to Repatriation Insurance for Expats?
Evacuation assistance is always included in repatriation insurance contracts. But it’s not all the evacuation policies include repatriation.
This guarantee is essential. It often happens that the insured’s state of health and the local infrastructure do not allow for local care.
And this situation makes returning to the country of origin a must.
In such cases, transportation and medical equipment must be provided. It’s the only way for the insured to get treatment in another city or even in a neighbouring country.
In all cases, the medical staff and the insurer will decide to evacuate or repatriate.
Repatriation Expenses Insurance Does Not Only Concern the Insured
International repatriation insurance for expats should cover the expenses of the victim plus the ones related to their family members.
In case of hospitalization or death, the insured’s family members must also be repatriated.
Their transportation costs and the possible accompaniment of minor children must be taken into account.
The policy can also cover the return of the insured to his country of residence once his health has been restored.
Other situations may arise and it is useful to plan for their coverage.
For example early return to the home country in case of illness or death of a relative.
Also payment of airline tickets and hotel room for family members in case of hospitalization in the country of expatriation.
There are also options to cover repatriation in the event of a natural disaster or terrorist attack.
Where to Buy Repatriation Insurance for Expats?
Choose a Company Specialized in Repatriation Expenses Insurance
It is possible to purchase this service as a stand-alone policy, or inside a full emergency medical evacuation and repatriation insurance.
Many companies are offering these products. But the best solution is to look for an expatriate insurance specialist.
They are fully aware of the issues and specific needs of these situations.
They have the skills and logistics required to deal with these issues. Their advisors can be easily reached at any time.
And they can mobilize the necessary resources on-site in case of an emergency.
Which Policy Offers the Best Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance?
Many expats rely on Social Security during their stays abroad. But this option doesn’t offer repatriation expenses insurance in most cases.
If you have health coverage through Social Security, you will have to take out a complimentary policy with another company.
It’s the only way to get this additional coverage.
The packages known as “1st euro” plans, allow you to benefit from this repatriation service and to add other options.
The more protective and complete a policy is, the more expensive it will be. But some optional guarantees are sometimes indispensable for certain situations.
In any case, this is the best medical evacuation and repatriation insurance for expats. Because of its flexibility and good value for money.
And also, because the companies that offer these products are specialists in international insurance.
To make the right choice according to your budget and your needs, it is interesting to use an online comparison tool.
It will allow you to select the best offers and to obtain quotes quickly.
