Healthcare
International Health Insurance
Also known as: IPMI, International Private Medical Insurance, Expat Health Insurance
Quick answer
Cigna — international health plans · Cigna — policy FAQ · checked 9 Nov 2026
Policy terms determine where treatment is covered, which benefits are included and what the policyholder pays. Cigna's published international plans checked in 2026, for example, offer worldwide cover with or without the USA and an optional outpatient module.
Before choosing a policy, check the deductible, benefit limits, pre-existing-condition exclusions, maternity waiting periods and direct-payment arrangements. Disclose the medical history requested by the insurer. Cigna says it may add exclusions for symptoms or advice sought before cover began, and that it arranges direct payment where possible. These are policy terms to check, not guarantees shared by every insurer.
Sources
- Cigna — international health plans · checked 9 Nov 2026
- Cigna — policy FAQ · checked 9 Nov 2026
Related terms
SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde Portugal)
Portugal's Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) is its public health service. An SNS user number identifies the patient, but having the number alone does not guarantee that SNS will cover the cost of care.
Mutuelle (France)
A mutuelle is complementary health cover in France that can reimburse eligible costs left after Assurance Maladie pays its share. What it covers depends on the contract; it does not automatically reimburse every remaining charge.
EHIC / GHIC Card
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) provide eligible holders access to medically necessary state healthcare during temporary stays in covered countries, on the same terms as people insured there. They do not replace travel insurance.
Deeper guides
International Health Insurance for Expats: Complete Guide (2026)
Comprehensive health insurance guide — global vs regional plans, top providers, costs by region, pre-existing conditions, US Medicare implications.
Expat Health Insurance: How to Get Coverage When You Move Abroad (2026 Guide)
Medicare doesn't work abroad and employer plans terminate. Global health insurance, local systems, providers, costs, and what Americans need to know.
Best Health Insurance for Americans Retiring Abroad (2026)
A conservative, retiree-focused guide to comparing comprehensive international health cover, travel-medical gaps, Medicare limits, visa evidence, and provider terms before retiring abroad.
Expat Retirement Healthcare: Medicare Alternatives Abroad (2026)
Medicare doesn't work outside the US. Actual healthcare options for American retirees abroad — from local public systems to international health insurance.
Best Countries to Retire Abroad With a Chronic Condition in 2026
Portugal, Spain, France, Greece, Costa Rica, Malaysia, Singapore — top 7 for chronic-condition retirees. Healthcare, insurance, prescription continuity, the 65-70 renewal cliff.
NHS vs Healthcare Abroad: What British Expats Actually Experience
Honest comparison of the NHS with healthcare in Spain, France, Portugal, Thailand, and the UAE. Real costs, wait times, S1 forms, GHIC, prescription differences, and emergency scenarios.