Insurance for you and your family

If you are an individual or a family, Herald Insurance Brokers can help you arrange the most suitable cover for your needs and budget. We can only do this once we understand exactly what you/your family require, but the following may help you along the way.

Do I need international medical insurance?
An important first question. Remember that health facilities and quality of healthcare differs enormously from country to country. Even in Europe and the Western world, there are several countries where people experience poor care. In the developing world, the quality is erratic, and generally on a self pay (private) system. The broad advice is that if the quality of healthcare in the country you are going to is worse than you currently enjoy, and you are going to a 2nd/3rd world country, international medical cover is essential. Don't take chances with your health.

Why not just buy travel insurance?
Two very good reasons. Firstly, travel insurance limits the time of cover and secondly, only emergencies are covered.

Why not buy local insurance in the country I am going to?
Generally speaking, local policies only cover you in that one country. International policies allow you to be treated virtually anywhere (including your home country)(subject to policy conditions)

Is the Insurance provider important?
The choice is extensive, both in terms of the extent and type of cover, but also the quality of the insurance provider. The latter is important - ultimately you will be buying medical/health insurance so that you can be reimbursed for medical expenses you are covered for. There is little point buying cover from a company that has limited financial strength.

What type of cover can I buy?
International medical insurance allows you to be treated anywhere in the world for your condition. You are free to choose the specialist, the hospital and even the country of treatment (Note - some policies carry exclusions on places of treatment and conditions)

The extent of cover varies from company to company but it can be simplified as follows:

Inpatient - covers hospitalisation and associated costs
Inpatient and Outpatient - also covers specialist consultations
Inpatient/Outpatient and family doctor - also covers the costs of doctors/GP consultations
Extra Cover - most insurers will allow coverage to be extended for other items such as dental, optical, evacuation etc.

How much is it going to cost?
The answer here is complex and depends on a number of key factors - age, location, extent of cover, existing medical conditions etc. We will be more than happy to provide you with an indicative quote.