Medical insurance is an important element of the adaptation of Ukrainian refugees to the new conditions of life abroad. In difficult circumstances, when people are forced to leave their homes, they often face a number of challenges, among which ensuring access to quality health care occupies a special place. Health insurance allows you to avoid significant financial costs for treatment, guarantees access to health care services and creates a sense of security. In many countries of the world, in particular in Europe, the presence of a health insurance policy is a mandatory requirement for entry or legal stay. At the same time, many Ukrainians have a number of questions about the choice and registration of insurance.
Let’s take a closer look at all aspects of health insurance for Ukrainian citizens abroad: what is a franchise, what services is covered by the policy, how to act in the event of an insured event, and whether it is possible to extend the insurance while staying outside of Ukraine.
What is a deductible and how does it affect insurance?
The deductible is one of the key elements in health insurance that often raises questions from customers. In simple words, the deductible is a part of the costs that the client pays on his own in the event of an insured event. The deductible can be a fixed amount or a certain percentage of the total loss. For example, if the sum insured is 30,000 euros, but the treatment costs 35,000 euros, the client will be forced to pay the difference of 5,000 euros at his own expense.
The franchise is beneficial for insurance companies, as it reduces their costs, but at the same time creates additional financial risks for the client. Fortunately, there are no-deductible policies that fully cover medical expenses, but they usually cost more. Before taking out insurance, you should carefully familiarize yourself with the terms of the contract and choose the best option depending on your needs and financial capabilities.
Should you choose foreign insurance?
There is a widespread stereotype among Ukrainians that foreign insurances are better than Ukrainian ones. However, this is not always true. Ukrainian insurance policies have several significant advantages. First, they are cheaper than foreign ones, which is important for people with a limited budget. Secondly, Ukrainian insurances often include additional services, for example, telemedicine. This allows you to get a consultation from a Ukrainian doctor, which is convenient due to the absence of a language barrier, especially when it comes to treating children. In addition, foreign insurance sometimes has a long waiting period, when the policy becomes effective only a few months after taking out. In this aspect, Ukrainian insurance companies win, because they begin to act immediately after payment.
Does insurance cover dental services?
Dental services are usually not included in standard health insurance, but there are exceptions. Some insurance companies offer policies that cover dental emergencies. For example, they include coverage for treatment of acute toothache, inflammation, abscesses or broken teeth. However, routine services such as fillings, prosthetics or implants remain outside the scope of insurance coverage. Therefore, if you have dental health problems, it is better to solve them before traveling abroad.
Is it possible to extend insurance abroad?
Most insurance companies do not offer extension of insurance policies for persons residing outside of Ukraine. However, there are platforms where Ukrainians can issue a new policy or extend an existing one, even while abroad. This can be done online through the site or by contacting customer service in messengers. Such a service is essential for those who are on long trips or are forced to remain abroad due to the circumstances of the war.
How to act in the event of an insurance event
In the event of an insured event, the first step should be to contact the insurance company. Contacts are always indicated on the policy. Representatives of the insurance company will arrange for the necessary medical assistance, including calling an ambulance or making an appointment with a doctor. If, due to circumstances, you were unable to contact the insurance company immediately, you must save all receipts and documents confirming the expenses and submit them for compensation. The optimal time to contact the insurance company is within 24 hours after the incident.
Therefore, health insurance is not just a requirement of many countries, but a vital necessity for Ukrainian refugees. It provides access to medical services, reduces financial risks and guarantees safety while staying abroad. Choosing the appropriate policy, knowing the terms of insurance and the algorithm of actions in the event of an insurance event will help to avoid unpleasant situations and ensure peace in a new country.
