Micronesia Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Micronesia

Micronesia’s healthcare system comprises public hospitals and clinics, but services can be basic and limited in scope. Many expats rely on international health insurance to ensure access to comprehensive care, including specialized treatments and emergency services unavailable locally.

Are you an expat preparing to move to Micronesia? Or maybe you are a traveler trying to understand the healthcare system. Knowing the country’s medical offerings and what type of health insurance you need is likely a top priority for your time abroad.

In this article, we’ll help guide you through Micronesia’s healthcare system, explain what insurance is best, compare top insurance plans, and much more. Keep reading or click below for a free, no-obligation quote on top insurance plans for expats and travelers in Micronesia.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Micronesia

The Healthcare System in Micronesia

The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) provides publicly funded healthcare across its four states—Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae. Overseen by the Department of Health and Social Affairs, each state delivers autonomous medical and public health services via hospitals, clinics, and dispensaries.

Micronesia offers preventive and public healthcare through government and private facilities. However, limited resources, a shortage of medical professionals, and dependence on overseas care for complex cases pose challenges in the local healthcare system.

Because of the country’s limited medical resources, urgent medical cases are generally transferred to the neighboring islands of Hawaii and Guam for treatment at more comprehensive medical facilities. 

With even the closest fully equipped institution being so far away, you should secure an insurance plan which includes repatriation and emergency evacuation. Emergency evacuation helps cover the hefty cost of being transported elsewhere for medical treatment. 

Micronesia’s Public Hospitals

Public hospitals in Micronesia are affordable for residents due to government subsidies, but care can be slow. Patients with severe conditions are frequently referred to facilities in Guam, Hawaii, or the Philippines for advanced treatment.

Each of the four states in FSM operates a public hospital that serves as the primary healthcare provider for its residents. These hospitals offer essential services like general medicine, maternity care, and emergency treatment. Read about each hospital below.

• Pohnpei State Hospital (Pohnpei): The largest and best-equipped hospital in the FSM, Pohnpei State Hospital offers a range of medical services, though specialized treatments may require referral abroad.
• Chuuk State Hospital (Chuuk): This hospital provides basic healthcare services to the largest population among the FSM states, but it often struggles with overcrowding and outdated equipment.
• Kosrae State Hospital (Kosrae) and Yap State Hospital (Yap): Both these hospitals offer fundamental healthcare but with resource constraints, including limited specialists and diagnostic tools.

Micronesia’s Private Hospitals

Micronesia’s private healthcare is limited, and most clinics focus on general practice or dental care. Individuals may choose private care for quick alternatives to public hospitals, but international health insurance is preferred since it allows patients to seek better treatment outside Micronesia.

The main private hospital in Micronesia is Genesis Hospital, located in Pohnpei. Find the hospital at X639+GJ4, Kolonia, Pohnpei, Micronesia, or call +691 320 3381.

Health Insurance Options for Expats in Micronesia

Public health services in Micronesia are highly subsidized by the state government but are only available to permanent residents. With a small fee, all citizens are entitled to receive healthcare services at public hospitals. 

Public Insurance in Micronesia

Micronesia has a public healthcare system funded through national- and state-level programs, but the services are often limited. Public hospitals and clinics provide basic care, including emergency treatment, but specialized care is not widely available. 

Expats who are employed locally may access public health benefits if they contribute to the healthcare fund through taxes. However, this coverage is generally insufficient for comprehensive needs, especially for chronic or complex medical conditions.

Private Insurance in Micronesia

Private health insurance is crucial for expats in Micronesia, with international health insurance offering the best coverage. International health insurance typically covers private clinics, specialist consultations, and medical evacuation—a vital service in this remote region. 

Private health insurance provides many benefits for expats, and top insurers like Allianz, Cigna, or GeoBlue offer expats plans tailored for life in Micronesia. These plans provide access to a global network of healthcare providers and ensure seamless care while in the Pacific region or globally.

Obtaining international health insurance is a prudent choice for expats in Micronesia to secure prompt, high-quality care while avoiding the challenges of the local healthcare system. Comparing tailored plans will help you find the most suitable coverage for your needs and lifestyle.

Without private insurance, costs for out-of-pocket private healthcare or overseas treatment can become prohibitive. By securing private health insurance, expats can protect themselves against unforeseen medical expenses and gain peace of mind.

Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in Micronesia

Securing private health insurance is vital for expats in Micronesia, ensuring access to quality care locally and internationally. Some of the top insurance providers for expats in Micronesia include Allianz, Cigna, GeoBlue, and VUMI. Allianz

Allianz

Allianz offers comprehensive international health insurance plans tailored to expats' needs in Micronesia. While each plan offers different benefits, Allianz provides wellness benefits, preventive care, and 24/7 multilingual support to ensure seamless healthcare access globally.

Allianz offers three core plans for international insurance through their Care, Care Plus, and Care Pro plans. Annual plan limits for each plan are:

• Allianz Care Plan: USD $2,500,000
• Allianz Care Plus Plan: USD $4,000,000
• Allianz Care Pro Plan: USD $5,000,000

The Care Plan offers coverage for the following:

• A semi-private inpatient and day-care hospital room
• Oncology services 
• Medical evacuation
• Nursing at home
• Rehabilitation treatment
• Emergency outpatient treatment

The Care Plus plan offers coverage for the following:

• A private inpatient and day-care hospital room
• Oncology services
• Medical evacuation
• Nursing at home
• Rehabilitation treatment
• Emergency outpatient treatment
• Emergency dental treatment

The Care Pro plan offers coverage for the following:

• A private inpatient and day-care hospital room
• Oncology services 
• Medical evacuation
• Nursing at home
• Rehabilitation treatment
• Emergency outpatient treatment
• Emergency dental treatment
• Preventative surgery
• Laser eye treatment

Additionally, Allianz allows policyholders to customize their coverage, enabling expats to include benefits such as dental, maternity, or chronic condition management, ensuring their unique medical needs are met wherever they are.

Cigna

Cigna is a trusted global health insurance provider offering four international plans with  an extensive international network of healthcare providers, making it ideal for expats in remote regions like Micronesia.

Cigna’s four international plans include their Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Close Care plans. All core plans include the following benefits:

1. Worldwide care
2. Inpatient care
3. Mental health care
4. Global health assistance
5. Numerous deductible options
6. Online customer platform
7. Cancer care
8. Visitor accommodation costs
9. Private hospital room coverage

The Silver plan has an annual limit of USD $1,000,000 and offers additional coverage for:

• Pandemics, epidemics, and outbreaks of infectious diseases
• Inpatient cash benefit
• Transplant services
• Palliative Care
• Out-of-area emergency hospitalization care

The Gold plan has an annual limit of USD $2,000,000 and offers all benefits of the Silver plan plus additional coverage for:

• Emergency treatments
• Advanced imaging
• Rehabilitation
• Home nursing
• Palliative care
• Treatment for obesity
• Congenital conditions

The Platinum plan has an unlimited annual limit  and offers all benefits of the Gold plan plus additional coverage for: 

• Hospital accommodation for a parent or guardian
• Transplant services
• MRIs, CT, and PET scans
• Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
• Palliative care
• Local ambulance services
• and so much more

The Close Care plan is Allianz’s most affordable option, with coverage only in Micronesia and the expat’s home country. The plan has an annual limit of USD $500,000.

GeoBlue

GeoBlue delivers international health insurance plans designed for expats and travellers. Their coverage includes primary care, specialist consultations, and medical evacuation. GeoBlue is ideal for expats in Micronesia seeking top-tier care locally or during travel.

GeoBlue offers three plan types for expats, including their Voyager plan, which covers a single trip, their Trekker plan, which covers multiple trips within a short period, or their Xplorer plan, which is a long-term health insurance for expats. The Xplorer plan suits most individuals. 

The Xplorer plan provides unique options for expats seeking coverage within the US and worldwide as well as for those who opt out of US coverage. The Xplorer Essential plan offers an annual limit of USD $1,000,000 while the Xplorer Premier plan offers an unlimited annual maximum.

GeoBlue also offers telemedicine services and a vast network of English-speaking doctors, ensuring convenience and accessibility for expatriates navigating healthcare in a foreign setting.

VUMI

VUMI (VIP Universal Medical Insurance) specializes in offering tailored international health insurance plans. Expats can choose from several tiers of coverage within VUMI’s Global Flex VIP plan for extensive international coverage. VUMI’s plans cater to both families and individuals with flexible options.

The following table outlines the annual limits for each of VUMI’s Global Flex VIP plans:

Global Flex VIP Plan	Annual Benefit Limit (USD)
Basic	$3,000,000
Standard	$3,500,000
Superior	$4,000,000
Ultra	$4,500,000
Total	$5,000,000

VUMI is also known for its multilingual customer support and innovative benefits, like second medical opinions, ensuring expats receive world-class healthcare guidance and solutions wherever they reside.

Facts to Consider When Picking Insurance in Micronesia

When selecting international health insurance in Micronesia, consider coverage options and network access, region of coverage, pre-existing conditions, emergency evacuation, cost, and the claims process.

Coverage Options and Network Access

Ensure your policy provides access to a broad network of local and international healthcare providers. Given Micronesia’s limited medical infrastructure, having access to regional or global hospitals for specialized treatment is crucial.

Plans with emergency evacuation and repatriation are highly recommended, as medical transport to facilities in nearby countries like Guam or Hawaii may be necessary for advanced care.

Local vs. International Plans

Micronesia's healthcare system is limited, and public options may not meet all expats’ needs. International insurance offers flexibility, allowing expats to access private healthcare facilities abroad for non-emergency treatments or elective procedures.

Choose a plan that caters to your travel frequency and residency status, ensuring coverage in Micronesia and during trips to other Pacific regions.

Pre-Existing Conditions and Customisation

Verify whether your plan covers pre-existing conditions. Providers like Cigna and Allianz often offer customizable policies, allowing expats to add benefits for chronic conditions, maternity care, or mental health services. This ensures tailored coverage for specific health requirements.

Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation

Due to Micronesia’s remote location and limited healthcare services, prioritize a policy with emergency medical evacuation and repatriation coverage. This guarantees access to advanced medical facilities in nearby countries.

Cost and Policy Flexibility

Health insurance costs vary by coverage level. Opt for a plan that balances affordability with comprehensive benefits. Insurers like GeoBlue and VUMI offer flexible options, allowing expats to adjust policies based on their budget and health needs.

Claims Process and Customer Support

Select a provider with a straightforward claims process and reliable customer support. Quick and transparent claims handling is essential in emergencies, ensuring you receive timely reimbursements or authorizations for treatments.

Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in Micronesia

Traveling to Micronesia offers a unique Pacific island experience, but understanding the local healthcare system and safety practices is essential for a worry-free stay. Here are some important health and safety tips for visitors:

Ensure Up-to-Date Vaccinations

Vaccinations for diseases like hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended. Consult your doctor about additional precautions, like medical protection from malaria, based on your planned activities. Carry a first aid kit and any essential medications you may need.

Emergency Contact Information

In emergencies, contact the National Hospital in Palikir or local clinics on nearby islands. For severe cases, emergency air evacuation is often the only option. Have your insurance and emergency service contact details readily available to avoid delays during crises.

Food and Water Safety

While tap water in urban centers may be safe, bottled or filtered water is the better choice, especially on smaller islands. Stick to well-cooked foods and avoid raw or undercooked seafood. This reduces the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses and ensures a pleasant culinary experience.

Weather and Natural Risks

Micronesia faces frequent tropical storms, especially during its wet season. Stay informed of weather updates, particularly if traveling between islands. Always pack rain gear and prepare for disruptions to travel schedules during severe conditions.

Cultural and Social Considerations

Micronesian culture places a high value on modesty and respect. Dress conservatively, especially in villages or traditional sites. Although crime is rare, practice general precautions such as securing valuables and staying vigilant in crowded areas.

Pharmacies and Medication

Local pharmacies may have limited supplies. Bring enough of your prescription medications for the duration of your stay. For emergencies, pack over-the-counter essentials such as antihistamines and pain relievers. Carry prescriptions and documentation for any medication you bring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are vaccinations required before traveling to Micronesia?

Routine vaccines like MMR and tetanus are recommended. Additional vaccines for hepatitis A, typhoid, and, in some cases, malaria prevention might be necessary depending on your activities and travel itinerary. Consult your doctor at least 6–8 weeks before departure.

How does local healthcare compare to neighboring countries?

Healthcare in Micronesia is limited compared to nearby regions like Guam or Hawaii, which have more advanced facilities. For specialized care, expatriates often rely on international insurance to seek treatment outside Micronesia, ensuring they receive high-quality medical services when necessary.

Are pharmacies and medications accessible in Micronesia?

Pharmacies are available in urban centers, but the range of medications can be limited. Expats should bring essential prescriptions and ensure their international health insurance includes pharmaceutical coverage. For rare or specialized medications, travel to Guam or Hawaii may be required.

Compare Plans and Quotes Now

Whether you are entitled to Micronesia’s state healthcare system or simply prefer an alternative, you should secure an international private health insurance plan.

We would also recommend an insurance plan that covers your emergency evacuation costs. If you are injured, you may want to receive the best care for your condition outside of the country. In most cases, the cost to transfer you back home can be incredibly steep! 

Pacific Prime has over two decades of experience as brokers in the insurance industry. We are committed to finding the perfect health insurance plan to suit your budget and needs. 

Most importantly, our highly-trained experts provide free quotations, leverage our close partnerships with all major insurers, and have an extensive portfolio that consists of all the best plans. Contact us today so we can help!