Living in Africa as an expatriate requires several adjustments, particularly regarding health coverage. For safety, it’s crucial to have health insurance that meets the specific needs of both the individual and their household.
Subscribe to expatriate health insurance in Africa?
Health cover in Africa for expatriates is essential, not just to handle high medical costs but also to ensure appropriate care. Medical infrastructure varies significantly between countries, impacting access and quality of care. In Rwanda, for instance, 98 % of the population has been covered by compulsory health insurance since 2006, a model praised for its effectiveness.
Lack of local healthcare systems
Although local healthcare systems are often competent, they may not provide adequate coverage for the specific needs of expatriates. Medical infrastructure can vary widely between countries and sometimes falls short of European standards. In South Africa, for instance, medical fees can range significantly, from 54 to 1070 USD per day, depending on the facility. Expatriate health insurance ensures access to quality care, regardless of the country of residence in Africa.
High medical costs
In some African countries, like Ghana, where only 18 % of the population had health coverage in 2012 despite a national health insurance system in place since 2003, the cost of specialist care can be prohibitive without adequate insurance. In Africa, 60 % to 70 % of healthcare expenses are paid directly by households, compared to a worldwide average of 46 %. A serious health incident can lead to catastrophic expenses, forcing households to sell assets, incur debt, or even withdraw children from school to cover medical costs.
Protection against the unexpected
Expatriates face specific health risks, such as tropical diseases, infections, or accidents. Local healthcare systems may not be adequately equipped to handle these situations. An expatriate health insurance policy offers protection against these unforeseen circumstances by providing comprehensive coverage for necessary care, including medical evacuation if needed.
Ensuring continuity of care
For expatriates with chronic medical conditions or requiring regular treatment, ensuring continuity of care is crucial. Local insurance might not cover specific treatments or may offer limited services. An expatriate health insurance policy guarantees continuity of care by covering necessary treatments, even when abroad.
Choosing the best expatriate health insurance in Africa
Choosing expatriate health insurance should involve a careful analysis of your needs and those of your family, considering local specifics and existing insurance schemes. For example, in Côte d’Ivoire, where health insurance has been compulsory since 2019, the system includes a low-cost contributory scheme (USD 1.7 per month) and a non-contributory scheme for the most disadvantaged.
Assessing specific needs
Moving to Africa has unique health coverage needs. Those who wear glasses benefit from insurance with good optical coverage. Similarly, expatriates who require frequent hospitalizations will benefit from coverage that reimburses these expenses.
Analyzing costs and reimbursements
It’s important to compare the rates and reimbursement levels of different insurance plans. For instance, if you plan to have children in Africa, ensure the insurance you choose covers childbirth costs. Additionally, check the reimbursement conditions for dental care and other common medical expenses.
Considering household situation
Health insurance should be tailored to the family situation of each expatriate. Whether you’re single, in a couple, or with children, it’s important to select a health insurance plan that provides coverage suited to each family member. Since health needs evolve with age, it’s crucial to regularly review and adjust coverage.
Comparing the different health insurance plans available
Expatriates in Africa have various options, available for students, working professionals, and retirees. Analyzing these options will aid in selecting the best coverage for each individual’s situation.
Insurance for students and working professionals
Expatriate students in Africa can find specific insurance policies tailored to young adults, often at favorable rates. Meanwhile, working individuals can benefit from policies that cover routine care as well as medical emergencies, which are essential in the often demanding professional environment.
Insurance for retired expatriates
Retired expatriates have specific needs, especially regarding optical and dental care, which tend to increase with age. Dedicated insurance plans provide extensive coverage for these expenses. It’s crucial for retired expatriates to choose a mutual insurance plan that offers high levels of coverage for routine care and hospitalization.
Pitfalls to avoid when choosing health insurance
Selecting expatriate health insurance can be a complex process. Avoiding common pitfalls will help ensure you have the right coverage and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Paying for unnecessary cover
Subscribing to unnecessary coverage can be avoided by precisely assessing your needs. For instance, for the case of good health with few medical needs, basic coverage may be sufficient.
Neglecting exclusions and waiting periods
It’s crucial to carefully read the general terms and conditions of insurance to understand exclusions and waiting periods. Some insurances may exclude pre-existing illnesses or impose waiting periods before certain benefits become effective. Being vigilant and informed helps avoid unpleasant surprises.
Obtaining expatriate health insurance in Africa is essential for security reasons. By assessing specific needs, comparing costs and reimbursement levels, it’s possible to benefit from optimal protection. Expatriates must be diligent and cautious in selecting the insurance that will best meet their expectations.
