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Saturday, May 30, 2009

Ratings of International Medical Insurance

By Ray Sondeo

Today?s growing global business has made international health insurance a necessity. When employees fly overseas on work assignments they are traveling with a good degree of risk. International travel introduces a higher degree of risk for illnesses, accidents, and injuries in a foreign land. International Insurance can protect against these risks in foreign countries.

Typical health insurance plans of American citizens and workers will not benefits outside the US. HMO plans are the most restrictive with very limited benefits outside the local HMO area. PPO plans are less restrictive but would typically limit coverage within the US PPO network. Medicare insurance for senior citizens (over 64 years) excludes all medical expenses incurred overseas.

In the event of an overseas life threatening situation, foreign medical airlifting might cost as much as $90,000. Most international insurance plans can cover these expenses under its medical evacuation benefits. This feature of international insurance provides travelers the peace of mind and financial security that they seek.

There are two options for choosing international insurance from the wide choices of international insurance providers available in the market. Long term International Health Insurance covers the travelers worldwide and also in the home country. Short term International Medical Insurance covers outside the native land up to a period of 3 years and offers limited coverage options inside the home country for incidental trips.

There are various factors to consider while selecting an international health insurance plan. The financial strength of the insurance company is a major concern. One can rely on the insurance company ratings provided by AM Best Company.

AM Best Company is an independent company that focuses on rating insurance companies and insurance underwriters. The ratings can range from A++ to D grades. A good AM Best rating is an indication that financial health of the company is good.

Larger International Health insurance companies typically have direct billing agreements with the major hospitals in many of the world?s big cities. Such arrangements between the insurance company and the hospitals ensure that payments can be made directly from the insurance company to the hospital without the involvement of the insured.

International health insurance industry has several players and all of them compete to offer plans that meet the needs of international travelers and overseas employees. While some companies focus exclusively on the international segments there are other companies that are beginning to look beyond the local domestic US market. Make sure you compare the various possibilities on the internet before enrolling on an international travel medical insurance plan. - 23211

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