Philippines Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in the Philippines

Many locals and most expats in the Philippines opt for private health insurance for the higher quality of care and shorter wait times in private health facilities. Private healthcare in the Philippines remains affordable compared to that in many Western countries.

Every client’s situation is unique. At Pacific Prime, we specialize in helping clients secure the perfect insurance plan for their specific needs and budget. Click below for a free quote, or continue reading to learn more about the health insurance options for expats in the Philippines.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in The Philippines

The Healthcare System in the Philippines

The healthcare system in the Philippines is a blend of public and private sectors. While major urban centers boast modern facilities and highly trained medical professionals, rural areas often face challenges related to accessibility and quality of care.

In addition to hospitals, health maintenance organizations (HMOs) are also common in the Philippines, providing coverage for medical expenses and making available more personalized care options.

At the community level, barangay health stations and local clinics deliver many primary care services. These facilities address basic health needs and offer preventive care, often serving as the first point of contact for residents.

Challenges remain in the Philippines’ healthcare system, particularly in rural areas. Access to emergency services can be problematic, with response times varying significantly across regions.

In the Philippines, call 911 for help if you’re in an emergency.

Philippines’ Public Hospitals

Public hospitals focus on primary care and preventive health, often struggling with staffing shortages and high patient volumes. Facilities are typically well-equipped in urban areas, but those in remote regions may lack adequate resources and personnel. Well known public hospitals include:

• Santa Ana Hospital: Located in Manila, this hospital is a well-regarded public institution known for its comprehensive services, including emergency care and maternal health programs.

  The hospital emphasizes community health and preventive care, making it a vital resource for local residents.

• Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center: This facility in Manila is recognized for its specialized services in surgery and internal medicine.

  As a government hospital, it provides affordable healthcare options while maintaining a focus on high-quality medical care. The center also engages in public health initiatives to educate the community.

• East Avenue Medical Center: This is a prominent public hospital in Quezon City, specializing in various medical fields, including cardiology and orthopedics.

  It serves a large patient base and offers a range of outpatient and inpatient services, enhancing healthcare accessibility for urban populations.

Philippines’ Private Hospitals

Private hospitals are known for their advanced technology, shorter wait times, and specialized care in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. Some examples are:

• Adventist Medical Center Manila: This is a private facility known for its patient-centered approach and advanced medical technology.

  The hospital offers a wide range of services, including specialized care in cardiology and oncology, making it a preferred choice for many expats and locals alike.

• Asian Hospital and Medical Center: Located in Muntinlupa, this hospital is celebrated for its state-of-the-art facilities and highly trained medical staff.

  This private hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services, including outpatient care, advanced diagnostics, and wellness programs, ensuring high standards of patient care.

• Manila Doctors Hospital: As one of the leading private hospitals in the Philippines, Manila Doctors Hospital offers a broad array of medical services, including specialized units for critical care and surgery.

  Known for its modern infrastructure and experienced healthcare professionals, it caters to both local and international patients, ensuring quality treatment in a comfortable environment.

Health Insurance Options in the Philippines for Expats

The two primary health insurance options available to expats in the Philippines are public insurance through PhilHealth and private insurance plans.

PhilHealth offers an affordable way to receive basic healthcare services, but it may not meet all medical needs, especially for those living in remote areas. By contrast, private insurance provides more extensive coverage and quicker access to high-quality care but at a higher cost.

Public Insurance in the Philippines

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, commonly known as PhilHealth, is the government-run health insurance program designed to provide coverage for residents, including expats.

PhilHealth aims to offer universal healthcare access for people legally residing in the country. The program covers a broad range of services, including inpatient care, outpatient consultations, and certain surgical procedures.

Expats employed in the Philippines are required to enroll in PhilHealth, with premiums typically deducted directly from their salaries. For other expats, voluntary enrollment is an option. This allows foreigners to access the same basic health benefits as local citizens, but with some limitations.

One significant advantage of PhilHealth is its affordability. Premiums are relatively low compared to many international insurance plans, and it provides coverage for various medical needs.

At the same time, expats should be aware of certain restrictions, such as:

• PhilHealth imposes waiting periods for reimbursement.
• Individuals must have made contributions for a specified duration before they can fully access benefits.
• There is a limit of 45 days of hospitalization coverage per year which may not be sufficient for serious illnesses.
• In rural locations healthcare resources are limited.
• Expats may also experience longer wait times in public hospitals.

Private Insurance in the Philippines

Many expats in the Philippines opt for private health insurance owing to the limitations of PhilHealth. These plans provide a broader range of coverage and greater flexibility, allowing expats to choose their healthcare providers and avoid many of the restrictions associated with public insurance.

Pacific Prime can assist you in choosing a plan that fulfills your needs and fits your budget, at no extra cost to you. Contact us today!

Private insurance policies typically cover many medical services, including:

• Hospitalization
• Outpatient care
• Prescription medications
• Preventive care

Many private plans also include features such as direct billing, which means that hospitals can bill the insurer directly.

Moreover, private hospitals in the Philippines often have:

• Better equipment
• Shorter wait times compared to public institutions
• A more comfortable environment
• More personalized care

These can be crucial for expats seeking a higher standard of medical care.

Naturally, private insurance has its own drawbacks. Premiums for private plans can be significantly higher than for PhilHealth, and coverage may vary widely based on the specific policy chosen. In some cases, private insurance may require upfront payment for services, with reimbursement to follow.

Moreover, while private health insurance provides extensive coverage, it may not be as comprehensive as some international plans available to expats.

Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in the Philippines

When relocating to the Philippines, securing reliable health insurance is crucial. AXA, April International, Allianz, Cigna, and IMG are five of the top private insurance providers that cater specifically to expats.

AXA

AXA offers a range of international health insurance plans designed for expats, with coverage limits varying from USD $160,000 to $8,000,000 annually. Their plans include essential benefits such as inpatient hospital expenses, comprehensive cancer treatments, and emergency medical care.

Additionally, AXA provides optional outpatient treatment and support for chronic conditions, ensuring a tailored approach to your healthcare needs.

April International

April International provides customizable health insurance solutions for expats, emphasizing flexibility and extensive global coverage. Their MyHealth International plans feature annual limits ranging from USD $250,000 to unlimited, with comprehensive hospitalization coverage.

The insurer also covers cancer care and offers a seamless claims process through their Easy Claim app, allowing for quick reimbursements. Their 24/7 multilingual support ensures assistance whenever needed.

Allianz

Allianz is renowned for its extensive international health insurance options, offering plans with maximum limits up to USD $5,000,000. Their coverage includes inpatient, day-care, and outpatient treatments, along with additional benefits such as oncology treatment and home nursing.

Allianz plans are designed to provide peace of mind, featuring a robust support system for emergency medical evacuations, ensuring you receive care without delay.

Cigna

Cigna focuses on providing comprehensive health plans tailored for expats, with maximum annual benefits ranging from USD $1,000,000 to unlimited. Their policies cover a wide array of medical services, including inpatient and outpatient treatments, cancer care, and mental health support.

Additionally, Cigna offers global portability and no age restrictions for enrollment, making their plans accessible and adaptable to various expat needs.

IMG

IMG (International Medical Group) delivers a variety of international health insurance plans for expats, with lifetime maximums ranging from USD $1,000,000 to $8,000,000. Their plans include comprehensive inpatient coverage and flexible deductible options from USD $250 to $25,000.

IMG also emphasizes the importance of preventive care, offering vaccinations and wellness benefits without waiting periods, ensuring that expats can maintain their health while living abroad.

Pacific Cross 

Pacific Cross Health Insurance offers expats in the Philippines a variety of affordable plans and packages. With over 65 years of experience in providing health insurance, they know how to treat their members fairly. You can expect comprehensive coverage and customizable benefits as well. 

Pacific Cross offers 9 different insurance plans, with many shared features:

William Russell

William Russell offers insurance plans that are globally portable across countries, so expats can travel while protected. They also renew their contracts on an annual basis, so their members never feel like they’re locked into long-term contracts.

The basic features of all their plans are:

Factors to Consider when Picking Insurance in the Philippines

When choosing a private health insurance plan, it's essential to consider more than just premiums, provider network size, direct billing options, and the insurer's reputation. Here are the primary factors to keep in mind:

1. Coverage Limits: Evaluate the coverage limits of the plan, which dictate the maximum amount the insurer will pay for your medical expenses. Ensure these limits align with your anticipated healthcare needs, particularly if you expect to require significant medical care.
2. Exclusions: Thoroughly review the policy's exclusions. Many plans may not cover specific pre-existing conditions, alternative therapies, or certain treatments. Understanding these exclusions is vital to prevent unexpected costs.
3. Insurer Reputation: Research the insurer’s reputation through feedback and ratings from current policyholders. An insurer with positive reviews is more likely to provide reliable service and prompt support.
4. Provider Network: Consider the size and quality of the insurer’s healthcare provider network. A larger network can improve access to hospitals and clinics, leading to shorter wait times and enhanced quality of care.
5. Range of Benefits: Investigate the benefits included in the plan. Look for comprehensive coverage that encompasses inpatient and outpatient services, preventive care, maternity and mental health support, as well as prescription medications.
6. Direct Billing Options: Confirm whether the insurer offers direct billing with healthcare providers. This feature allows you to receive treatment with minimal upfront payments, simplifying the process and alleviating financial stress.
7. Adventure Activities and Support: If you intend to engage in adventure activities, ensure that the policy provides coverage for these activities. Additionally, check that the insurer offers 24/7 emergency assistance for urgent medical situations.
8. Medical Evacuation Coverage: Ensure the plan includes medical evacuation coverage to address the costs and logistics of transporting you to another location or country for necessary medical treatment.

Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in the Philippines

It's crucial to exercise a high degree of caution due to the prevalence of insect-borne diseases, and potential threats of terrorism and violent crime when traveling to the Philippines. Here are the key health and safety tips to keep in mind:

Health Tips

• Vaccinations and Health Precautions: Before traveling, ensure you are up to date with vaccinations, particularly for measles, polio, and Japanese encephalitis. Discuss your travel plans with a healthcare provider to assess any additional vaccinations needed and to address existing health conditions.
• Food and Water Safety: Drink only boiled or bottled water to avoid waterborne diseases. Be cautious with food; avoid raw or undercooked items and street food. Eating at reputable establishments can reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
• Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria and dengue fever are prevalent, especially during the rainy season (May to December). Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and consider taking anti-malarial medication if traveling to high-risk areas.
• Rabies Risk: Rabies is a concern due to stray animals. Avoid contact with animals, and if bitten, wash the wound immediately and seek medical attention.
• Health Facilities: Major hospitals in urban areas like Metro Manila are well-equipped, but rural areas may have limited services. Always ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as costs can be high.
• Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers, including medical assistance (911) and crisis hotlines.
• Medication Regulations: Check the legality of any medications you plan to bring, and carry a copy of your prescription.

Safety Tips

• Stay Informed: Regularly check local media for updates on security threats. Terrorist attacks can occur anywhere, including popular tourist spots, airports, and public transportation.
• Avoid High-Risk Areas: Do not travel to central and western Mindanao, including the Zamboanga Peninsula and the Sulu Archipelago, where there is a very high threat of terrorism and kidnapping. For eastern Mindanao, reconsider your need to travel.
• Personal Security: Be vigilant in crowded places and stay alert using public transport. Gangs are known to target tourists in urban areas. Always keep personal belongings close and be wary of pickpockets.
• Stay Away from Protests: Public gatherings can quickly turn violent. As a foreigner, participating in political rallies is illegal and can lead to deportation.
• Drink Safety: Be cautious of drink spiking, particularly in nightlife areas. Never leave drinks unattended and only consume beverages from trusted sources.
• Natural Disasters: The Philippines is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons. Familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures and evacuation plans.
• Sufficient Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical costs and potential evacuation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are public hospitals in the Philippines generally reliable?

Public hospitals offer essential healthcare services, but they often face challenges such as understaffing and longer wait times. While public providers are qualified, the quality of care can vary significantly, especially in rural areas compared to urban centers.

How does PhilHealth work for expats in the Philippines?

PhilHealth provides basic health coverage to expats residing legally in the Philippines. Enrollment is mandatory for employed individuals, while others can join as well. Benefits include inpatient and outpatient services, but limitations apply, especially for certain treatments.

What types of medical services does PhilHealth cover?

PhilHealth covers services such as preventive care, hospitalizations, and some outpatient treatments, but certain advanced treatments or specialty care may require additional coverage, leading many expats to seek complementary international health insurance for more comprehensive benefits.

Conclusion: Compare Plans and Quotes Now

At Pacific Prime, we offer a full range of insurance plans, including international health insurance and medical evacuation (medevac) coverage. We also offer family health, maternity health, dental insurance, travel insurance, and many other types of plans.

For further information about our insurance plans for the Philippines or for a free quote, contact one of our professional advisors today! You may also compare different plans with our online comparison tool.