International health insurance

This type of insurance is designed to cover everyday health needs, providing Kiwis with additional support for primary healthcare services.

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A Comprehensive Guide to International Health Insurance in New Zealand
Navigating Healthcare Coverage for Overseas Visitors and Expats

New Zealand's pristine landscapes and high quality of life attract visitors and expats from around the globe. While the country boasts an excellent public healthcare system, international health insurance remains crucial for those staying temporarily or settling long-term. This guide explores the ins and outs of securing comprehensive medical coverage in Aotearoa.

Understanding the New Zealand Healthcare System

New Zealand operates a dual public-private healthcare model. The public system, funded by taxes, provides free or subsidised care to citizens, permanent residents, and some visa holders. However, non-residents and short-term visitors often face full costs for medical services.

Key points:

Accident-related treatment is covered by ACC for all, including visitors

Non-residents may face long wait times for non-urgent public healthcare

Private healthcare offers faster access but at higher out-of-pocket costs

Why International Health Insurance Matters

For those not eligible for public healthcare, international health insurance provides:

Access to private hospitals and specialists

Coverage for pre-existing conditions (with some plans)

Repatriation services in case of serious illness

Peace of mind when navigating a foreign healthcare system

Consider these factors when selecting international health insurance:

Coverage area

New Zealand-only or worldwide?

Policy duration

Short-term travel or long-term expat coverage?

Pre-existing conditions

Are they included or excluded?

Outpatient services

GP visits, prescriptions, and diagnostic tests

Hospitalisation

Public and private hospital coverage

Maternity care

Essential for those planning to start a family

Dental and optical

Often offered as add-ons

Repatriation

Emergency transport to your home country if needed

Top Providers in the New Zealand Market

Southern Cross

Southern Cross is a well-established name in the New Zealand health insurance market. As a not-for-profit organisation, it focuses on returning value to its members.

Offers a range of plans, including basic options like their "Wellbeing Starter" plan

Known for efficient claim processing, with many claims settled within 5-7 working days

Provides a mobile app for easy claims submission and policy management

Offers a network of affiliated healthcare providers for potential cost savings

Regularly scores high in customer satisfaction surveys

Learn more

Orbit Protect

nib entered the New Zealand market in 2012 when it acquired Tower Medical Insurance. Since then, it has grown to become one of the major players in health insurance.

Offers flexible coverage with their "Basic" plan as an entry-level option

Provides digital tools including a mobile app for policy management and claims

Focuses on preventive care with programmes like health screenings

Offers coverage for some pre-existing conditions after a waiting period

Provides options for adding extras like dental and optical cover to basic plans

Learn more

Southern Cross

Southern Cross is a well-established name in the New Zealand health insurance market. As a not-for-profit organisation, it focuses on returning value to its members.

Offers a range of plans, including basic options like their "Wellbeing Starter" plan

Known for efficient claim processing, with many claims settled within 5-7 working days

Provides a mobile app for easy claims submission and policy management

Offers a network of affiliated healthcare providers for potential cost savings

Regularly scores high in customer satisfaction surveys

Learn more

Bupa Global

AIA is a global insurance provider that entered the New Zealand health insurance market by acquiring Sovereign in 2018.

Offers integrated life and health insurance options

Provides a vitality programme that rewards healthy lifestyle choices

Offers loyalty benefits for long-term customers, such as increasing cover over time

Provides options for both individual and business health insurance

Offers a "Private Health" plan as their basic health insurance option

Learn more

AXA Global Healthcare

UniMed is another member-owned, not-for-profit health insurer with a history dating back to 1979.

Offers both comprehensive and basic plans, with their "UniCare" plan as a basic option

Provides options for both individuals and employer groups

Known for its strong focus on customer satisfaction

Offers some unique benefits like cover for obstetrics and infertility treatment on certain plans

Provides loyalty benefits, increasing certain benefit limits over time

Learn more

Bupa Global

AIA is a global insurance provider that entered the New Zealand health insurance market by acquiring Sovereign in 2018.

Offers integrated life and health insurance options

Provides a vitality programme that rewards healthy lifestyle choices

Offers loyalty benefits for long-term customers, such as increasing cover over time

Provides options for both individual and business health insurance

Offers a "Private Health" plan as their basic health insurance option

Learn more

Each provider offers unique benefits, so compare policies carefully.

Visa Requirements and Insurance

Some visa categories require proof of health insurance:

Student visas

Working holiday visas

Certain work visas

Ensure your chosen policy meets Immigration New Zealand's requirements.

Making Claims and Accessing Healthcare

To utilise your international health insurance:

Find in-network providers to minimise out-of-pocket expenses

Keep all medical receipts and documentation

Follow your insurer's claims process promptly

Use provided helplines for guidance on local healthcare services

Complementing Your Coverage

Travel insurance for short trips outside New Zealand

Income protection insurance for long-term expats

Life insurance for added financial security

Staying Healthy in New Zealand

Preventive care is key to minimising healthcare costs:

Stay up-to-date with vaccinations

Embrace the Kiwi outdoor lifestyle for better overall health

Understanding ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation)

While ACC covers accident-related injuries for all, it doesn't replace comprehensive health insurance:

ACC doesn't cover illness or non-accident related medical issues

Some treatments may only be partially funded

Long-term care and rehabilitation may require additional coverage

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