Jargon Buster -
The Top 50 Words in International Expat Healthcare Explained
Essential Health Insurance Terms:
Premium
The amount you pay for your insurance policy, typically monthly or annually.
Deductible
The amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in.
Co-Payment (Co-Pay)
A fixed sum paid by the insured for covered services, in addition to what the insurer pays.
Exclusions
Specific conditions or services that the insurance policy does not cover.
Coverage Limit
The maximum amount an insurance company will pay for covered services.
Waiting Period
The time you must wait before some or all of your coverage comes into effect.
Pre-existing Condition
A health condition that existed before the start of your insurance policy.
Inpatient Care
Care where the patient is admitted to a hospital.
Outpatient Care
Medical care or treatment that does not require an overnight stay in a hospital.
Direct Billing
A system where the healthcare provider directly charges the insurance company.
Policyholder
The person who owns the insurance policy.
Navigating the world of healthcare coverage as an expatriate can be a daunting task, but fear not – we've compiled a list of the most commonly used words in expat healthcare insurance to demystify the jargon. Whether you're a seasoned expat or new to the game, this resource is designed to break down complex terms, making it easier for you to understand and choose the right insurance plan for your needs.
Check out all the essential terms, starting with all the absolute must-knows below!
Beneficiary
A person designated to receive benefits from an insurance policy.
Repatriation
Transportation back to one's home country for medical care.
Medical Evacuation (Medevac)
Emergency transportation to the nearest suitable medical facility.
Rider
An add-on to a standard insurance policy that provides additional benefits.
Underwriter
A person or company that evaluates and assumes the risk of another party.
Claim
A request for payment under an insurance policy's terms.
Network Provider
Hospitals and doctors contracted by an insurance company to provide services.
Lifetime Limit
The maximum amount an insurer will pay out over the life of the policy.
Renewal
Extending the period of coverage under an insurance policy.
Policy Term
The duration for which an insurance policy is active.
Sum Insured
The maximum value for a particular year that the insurance company can provide.
Third-Party Administrator (TPA)
An organization that processes insurance claims.
Expat Insurance
Health insurance specifically designed for individuals living outside their home country.
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Health insurance that provides worldwide coverage.
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Insurance coverage for pregnancy and childbirth-related expenses.
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Insurance that covers dental care and treatment.
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Insurance coverage for eye care, including check-ups and eyeglasses.
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A long-lasting health condition that requires ongoing treatment.
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Immediate medical care required for serious illness or injury.
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Admission to a hospital for treatment that requires at least one overnight stay.
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Remote diagnosis and treatment via telecommunications technology.
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Medications that legally require a medical prescription to be dispensed.
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Coverage for preventive healthcare services.
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Insurance benefits that cover mental health treatments.
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Non-mainstream healthcare practices not typically covered by standard insurance.
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The geographical area where your insurance policy is effective.
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The maximum amount an insurer will pay in one policy year.
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The percentage of costs you pay after you’ve met your deductible.
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Transport assistance in case of a medical emergency.
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An extra period provided after the premium due date during which the policy remains active.
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Insurance coverage offered to a group of people under a single master policy.
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A card that provides details of the policyholder’s insurance coverage.
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Refers to providers or health care facilities part of a health plan’s network of providers.
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Healthcare providers not contracted with the health insurance plan.
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The most you have to pay for covered services in a policy period.
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The date when an insurance policy’s coverage ends.
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Approval from a health plan for a prescribed procedure or service.
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A recommendation by a physician to see a specialist or get certain services.
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Specific conditions or coverage areas excluded from the insurance policy.
Understanding these terms can help in selecting the right expat healthcare insurance, ensuring you have a policy that aligns with your specific health and geographic needs… not to mention getting the best deal financially.
