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International Health Insurance for Expats in Samoa
International health insurance is crucial for expats who are moving to or visiting Samoa, ensuring access to high-quality care. Healthcare is generally affordable or even free for residents, but inadequate to provide comprehensive care such as specialist treatments.
Those moving or traveling to Samoa will undoubtedly be interested to understand more about the Samoan healthcare system, and whether international health insurance is necessary. This serves as a guide that encompasses the essential information to help expats navigate healthcare in Samoa.
Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Samoa
Allianz Care Health Insurance
- World-leading Health Insurance Provider for Expats
- Extensive Network With Over 1.9 Million Medical Providers
- Quick and Efficient Claims Process
- Maximum Plan benefit up to USD $5,000,000
Cigna Global Insurance Plan
- Worldwide Coverage (excluding the US)
- Access to Cigna's trusted network of hospitals and doctors
- Numerous Deductible Options
- 24/7 Customer Support
- 4 Core Insurance Plans
The Healthcare System in Samoa
The healthcare system in Samoa is a mix of public and private healthcare, catering to both locals and expats. Most residents find daily routine healthcare services in the public sector and specialist treatment in the private sector.
Public Healthcare and Hospitals in Samoa
Samoa's healthcare infrastructure operates under the Ministry of Health oversight, with a network of hospitals and community health facilities across its islands. This distributed network ensures healthcare accessibility throughout the island nation.
The system is anchored by two major hospitals: Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital in Apia, Upolu, supported by three district hospitals (Lalmanu, Poutasi, and Leulumoega); and MT II Hospital in Savai'i, complemented by four district hospitals (Sataua, Safotu, Foailalo, and Satupaitea).
Public healthcare services include general medical care, maternal and child health services, immunizations, and emergency care. Services are generally affordable or free for residents, including expats with residency status.
However, the public system may face challenges such as limited resources, access to specialized services, and staffing shortages.
Private Healthcare and Hospitals in Samoa
Private healthcare in Samoa offers an alternative to the public system and is often preferred by expats for its higher quality of care and shorter wait times. Private facilities typically have better resources and more personalized services.
Samoa’s private healthcare market is small, and the major private hospital MedCen is currently closed, waiting to be reopened as a specialist referral hospital. That said, plenty of private medical centers are also available for locals and expats.
Below are some private facilities in the country, mainly located in Apia.
- Health Specialist Center
Salanesa Rd, Apia, Samoa
+685 28303 - Ah Leong Clinic
Ififi St, Apia, Samoa
+685 76 81615 - Thrive Healthcare Clinic
Bay #4 Poinsettia House, Moto'otua Street, Apia, Samoa
+685 76 46264
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Health Insurance Options in Samoa for Expats
Expats in Samoa have the option of public and private health insurance. Many expats access compulsory and basic healthcare services through public insurance while securing private insurance to bridge the healthcare gap.
Public Insurance in Samoa
While Samoa has a public healthcare system that offers services through facilities like Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital in Apia, public health insurance is primarily available to residents and citizens. Expats may have limited access to these services, and coverage can vary.
Public healthcare services are generally affordable or free for locals; however, expats may need to pay out-of-pocket for certain services, especially if they are not considered residents.
Private Insurance in Samoa
Private health insurance is the most common choice for expats in Samoa, offering greater flexibility and access to higher-quality medical care. Many private facilities provide services that are tailored to the needs of expats.
The cost of private health insurance varies based on coverage levels, age, medical history, and the specific provider. While premiums can be higher than public options, the benefits and quality of care often justify the expense.
Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in Samoa
The best private insurance providers for expats in Samoa include MSH International, Cigna, April International, and GeoBlue. Each insurance provider has their own distinct advantages, catering to expats unique needs and budget requirements.
MSH International
MSH International provides flexible and comprehensive health insurance plans for expatriates globally, including those in Samoa. Their user-friendly app offers features such as medical provider locators, a streamlined claims process, and country guides, making it a valuable resource when needed.
- Inpatient treatment
- Hospitalization
- Cancer treatment
- Emergency evacuation
Cigna
Cigna provides international health insurance for expatriates across more than 200 countries and jurisdictions. Their extensive network of trusted hospitals and doctors, combined with 24/7 customer support, has garnered widespread favor among expatriates for its convenience and professionalism.
- Hospitalization
- Inpatient and daypatient treatments
- Cancer treatments
- Physiotherapy
- Accidental death or total permanent disability compensation
Allianz
Allianz offers comprehensive insurance plans in Samoa to fit a variety of expats’ and their family’s needs. Riders are available to be purchased and attached to basic policies that Allianz provides. These riders can offer coverage for accidents and other risks that expats may face abroad.
The plans offered by Allianz include the Care, Care Plus, and Care Pro plans. While each of these plans may differ in coverage limits and benefits, they share similar benefits as listed below:
- Inpatient costs
- Diagnostics and laboratory tests
- Surgeries
- Ambulances transport
- Cancer treatment
April International
April International brings over 30 years of experience in offering quality and affordable international health insurance to expats worldwide. Their fully paperless reimbursement system simplifies documentation and claims, making the process entirely digital and convenient for users.
- Inpatient treatment
- Outpatient treatment
- Emergency repatriation
- Emergency evacuation
- Maternity coverage
- Vision and dental coverage
GeoBlue
GeoBlue offers comprehensive international health insurance plans tailored for expatriates, travelers, and global citizens. Their policies provide access to a wide network of healthcare providers worldwide, ensuring high-quality medical care and support in various locations.
- Diagnostic lab work and X-rays
- Surgery
- Inpatient medical emergencies
- Emergency evacuation and repatriation
- Yearly physicals
Facts to Consider when Picking Insurance in Samoa
The cost of private health insurance in Samoa varies based on several factors, including the level of coverage, the insured individual's age, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Premiums can range from moderate to high, depending on the plan chosen.
Among those, pre-existing medical condition insurance coverage could get complicated. For expats with pre-existing conditions, Check carefully whether you are offered a pre-existing condition exclusion, a moratorium, or coverage with loading.
- Exclusion: The insurer will not pay or reimburse the policyholder for medical bills related to the condition if he/she chooses them as the insurer.
- Moratorium: The insurance company offers health insurance but excludes and observes the pre-existing condition for a certain period known as the waiting period. This period is usually 24 months, then the insurance company reviews its decision.
- Coverage with loading: Insurance companies may offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, but only with higher premiums. Not all pre-existing conditions are eligible for this kind of coverage, and not all companies offer this option.
Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in Samoa
Travelers in Samoa can stay safe and healthy following tips like keeping up with their immunizations and more.
Samoa is a small country in a remote location, making travel to and from the country limited and difficult. Considering the options for medical evacuation from Samoa is extremely important if a person is injured or has become ill in any serious way.
Discuss your options for medical evacuation from Samoa with your international health insurance provider.
Immunization
The World Health Organization recommends the following vaccinations for Samoa: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, and influenza.
Comprehensive travel insurance or Samoa private health insurance can help to offset healthcare and medical evacuation costs, should something happen to you during your stay in Samoa.
Samoa Travel Advice
Visitors should avoid drinking tap water, use bottled water to brush their teeth, and not eat uncooked meat or fish, as it may lead to traveler’s diarrhea.
Snorkeling and diving are the most popular activities, and while normally safe, it is advisable not to touch fish and corals in the ocean, as some species can be toxic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of coverage are available in international health insurance plans for expats in Samoa?
Many plans offer a range of coverage options, including outpatient and inpatient care, emergency medical services, prescription medications, and preventive care. It's important to review specific policies to understand what is included.
How do I choose the right international health insurance provider for my needs while living in Samoa?
Consider factors such as the provider’s network of hospitals and doctors in Samoa, customer reviews, coverage options, claim processing efficiency, and the availability of 24/7 support. Comparing multiple providers can help identify the best fit for your situation.
What should I do if I need medical care while in Samoa?
In case of a medical emergency, contact your insurance provider for guidance on local healthcare facilities. Most international health insurance plans also have customer support services that can assist in locating providers and managing claims.
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Samoa’s healthcare system and medical facilities are considered basic compared to Western standards. In the event of a serious illness or accident, visitors and resident expats in the country are advised to seek medical assistance in New Zealand, Australia, or Hawaii.
Therefore, it is highly recommended that all expats and travelers in Samoa obtain a comprehensive international health insurance policy that contains the emergency evacuation benefit.
If you would like more information about traveling, or moving to Samoa and obtaining the best medical insurance policy for the occasion, contact one of our dedicated advisors today. We have over 20 years of experience comparing and finding the right insurance for globetrotters.
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