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Growing demand leads to top notch international health insurance being available for the first time for marine crew.
As global lifestyles emerge, the demand for comprehensive major medical insurance has grown rapidly. In response to this demand, a new generation of superior health plans is now available in the marine industry. This is a positive development.
Existing insurance options have often missed the mark because of limited benefits, long waiting periods, harsh exclusions (especially the "pre-existing condition" clause), pre-certification penalties, lack of portability, and other constraints.
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Insurance regulators have historically encountered international health plans primarily in the form of surplus lines products. These plans are technically not a health insurance policy. Nevertheless, surplus lines plans have been the only renewable health option available to the marine industry up until now. Over 40 states (including Florida and California) have approved a health plan geared for people with a global lifestyle. Benefits are available inside and outside of the United States with no cap on time spent in any one place.
Comparing surplus coverage to true health insurance yields some very crucial differences. They are built very differently with far reaching consequences. Your personal health (or that of your crew) and financial security could hang in the balance.
Critical Protection - You are protected under US insurance laws and oversight. U.S insurance laws are strict and have long favored the health care consumer. This means that policy language must meet the plain English definition. Policy wording, plan definitions, exclusions, state mandates for coverage, claims process, claims turnaround times, formal appeals process all must meet regulatory muster.
Ongoing Coverage Rights - An admitted plan can be kept even after your employment ends. US insurance laws have stepped up to ensure portability and renewability of coverage. This is designed so that people do not suddenly find themselves out of a job and uninsurable. Admitted plans can be kept after employment ends whether you were covered under a group or individual policy.
Medical Provider Networks - Larger networks tend to be available in the United States with fewer billing issues for members. In addition, contracted doctors and hospitals are available overseas too. These providers are set up in many instances to bill the insurance company directly. Providers are profiled, contracted and members can review their biographical information.
Better Benefits - Admitted benefits tend to be broader and deeper, with few waiting periods or low limits on medical conditions. The table below illustrates some of the major differences between an admitted health plan and a non admitted surplus plan.
| Coverage Considerations | Admitted Health Insurance | Non-Admitted Insurance |
| Must conform to U.S. health insurance laws |
|
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| Unlimited time can be spent in or out of the U.S. | ||
| Pre-existing conditions coverage available* | ||
| Covers appendicitis, kidney stones, gall stones, breast disorders in the initial 6 month period and beyond | ||
| Substance abuse benefits included | ||
| Transplants covered to policy maximum | ||
| Terrorism covered worldwide with no excluded countries | ||
| Preventive services covered with no waiting period | ||
| Pre-Certification is not required when seeking care (*A key feature when quick communication to within the USA is not always possible or practical.) | ||
| Alcohol related injuries and illnesses are covered | ||
| Amateur sail boat racing covered to policy maximum | ||
| Deductible waived for physician office visits | ||
| Wellness benefits covered with no waiting period | ||
| Cashless access to physicians outside U.S. -180 countries | ||
| Access to 700,000 contracted providers in the U.S. |
*References individual products sold. Subject to prior credible health insurance. Chart is meant as a general guideline of individual products offered. Some benefits and services may vary by insurer.
The unique lifestyle needs of the marine industry require health insurance that can be relied upon. As always, do your home work. Be sure to read the fine print rather than just scanning a benefit schedule.
Your questions are encouraged. 1-407-532-3383 (Florida, USA) | 1-888-227-9449 | mail@globalmedicalsecurity.com
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