If you’re planning to go on vacation abroad, or if you’re leaving or living abroad, you’ve probably asked yourself the question of taking out international health insurance for your stay. Depending on your destination, the length of your vacation or your stay abroad, you’ll need to ask yourself a number of questions.
You’re going on vacation to a country in the European Union
Why isn’t the European Health Insurance Card enough?
French social security does not fully cover you abroad. However, when you travel within the European Union with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you are partially covered.
Be careful, however, as it will only cover you up to the reimbursement ceiling of the French social security system. For example, let’s say you need to see a London doctor. Given that this consultation costs around €80, you will be reimbursed 70% of a French consultation costing €23, i.e. a total reimbursement of €16. You will therefore lose 64 euros. And London is not the only example: in many foreign countries, medical procedures are much more expensive than in France. Imagine the cost of hospitalization!
Why take out international insurance?
That’s why it’s so important to take out complementary health insurance abroad for your trip, to make sure you’re covered at 100% of actual costs for your various expenses. What’s more, sometravel insurance policies offer benefits such as repatriation, to take care of you in the event of an extreme situation.
Going outside Europe
For certain destinations, the question of insurance is of prime importance, and it’s essential that you take out insurance before you leave. In some cases, the host government will ask you to provide it.
You’ll need to pay particular attention to your host country, as some countries such as Brazil, Australia and the USA have extremely high medical costs.
For this type of country, you don’t need to ask yourself any questions, just think about your health and be prepared for all eventualities.
In any case, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information on our insurance products. We’ll be happy to guide you towards the contracts that best meet your various criteria and your budget.
Vous vivez ou partez vivre à l’étranger ?
International health insurance is essential. How should you choose your international health insurance?
