Learning in foreign countries is fun, but also a duty. Healthcare is one of the most neglected areas of international education. This is of particular concern in the Philippines. There is a combination of both the public and the private health services in the country, but students and expatriates prefer to use the private hospitals because they provide better care and have less waiting time. The difficulty lies in the fact that private healthcare may be costly. Health insurance comes in there.
Health insurance plan is not just any other piece of paper to international students. It serves as insurance, a means of receiving quality care without having to go through your wallet. Most Philippine universities demand accountability of coverage among students during their enrolments. Although it may not be a compulsory thing in your school, the right plan can ensure that your studies are a lot less stressful.
This guide will discuss the Top 10 health insurance and HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) that can be taken by overseas and international students in the Philippines. It has domestic HMOs that have a wide range of hospitals and global insurance companies that offer portability to individuals that travel regularly.
Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Plan
Before diving into the list, let’s outline the main criteria international students should look at when comparing options:
- Accredited hospital network: Check whether your insurer has tie-ups with hospitals near your campus or accommodation. Manila, Cebu, and Davao have different clusters of accredited facilities.
- Inpatient and outpatient coverage: Plans should cover both hospital admissions and everyday consultations. Outpatient visits are where students often spend money.
- Emergency evacuation: For foreign students, repatriation or evacuation cover is essential in case of serious illness.
- Mental health services: Increasingly important for students facing academic and cultural adjustment challenges.
- Cost and flexibility: Plans vary in affordability. Look for flexible payment schedules and options to adjust coverage modules.
- Ease of claims: Mobile apps, online claim filing, and cashless hospital admissions reduce hassle.
With those in mind, let’s explore the top insurers and HMOs.
1. Pacific Cross Philippines
Pacific Cross is one of the most recognized private medical and travel insurers in the Philippines. It has been operating for decades and is widely trusted by expatriates.
- Why it works for students: Offers individual and family plans that can be tailored for foreigners staying long-term. Plans often include inpatient, outpatient, dental, and emergency evacuation.
- Strength: Strong reputation for travel-related medical emergencies and portability outside the Philippines.
- Consideration: Premiums may be slightly higher than local HMOs, but you pay for international-grade coverage.
2. Maxicare
Maxicare is one of the largest HMOs in the Philippines with a nationwide network of accredited hospitals and clinics.
- Why it works for students: Their prepaid cards and student-friendly plans make it easy to access outpatient care without high upfront costs.
- Strength: Extensive hospital and clinic network covering Manila, Cebu, Davao, and smaller cities.
- Consideration: Plans may have limitations on international portability, so it’s best suited for students staying full-time in the Philippines.
3. MediCard Philippines
MediCard, now under AIA Philippines, is another leading HMO with broad reach.
- Why it works for students: Offers comprehensive plans with preventive care, outpatient benefits, and prepaid health cards for quick access.
- Strength: Flexible payment plans, strong reputation, and tie-ups with major hospitals.
- Consideration: Similar to Maxicare, most benefits are locally focused rather than international.
4. Intellicare (Asalus Corporation)
Intellicare is known for its extensive list of accredited doctors and hospitals across the country.
- Why it works for students: Offers customizable plans, which is helpful if you want to balance cost with essential coverage.
- Strength: Strong preventive care and wellness program options.
- Consideration: Plans may need more add-ons to cover international travel needs.
5. PhilCare
PhilCare provides a range of HMOs, from full plans to prepaid cards, making it accessible for different budgets.
- Why it works for students: Offers cashless access at accredited hospitals, which means less stress when seeking medical care.
- Strength: Prepaid health cards can serve as an affordable backup option for minor outpatient needs.
- Consideration: Coverage for major inpatient treatments may require more expensive tiers.
6. ValuCare (Value Care Health Systems, Inc.)
ValuCare is another HMO with strong presence in the Philippines.
- Why it works for students: Balanced benefits for inpatient and outpatient care, preventive services, and wellness programs.
- Strength: Accredited nationwide, giving coverage in both major cities and provincial areas.
- Consideration: Some plans may have caps on specialist consultations.
7. EastWest Healthcare
EastWest Healthcare positions itself as a modern HMO with wide provider networks and digital solutions.
- Why it works for students: Its telemedicine services are convenient for students who may not want to travel across the city for routine checkups.
- Strength: Affordable entry-level options for students and young professionals.
- Consideration: Coverage can be less comprehensive compared to larger HMOs like Maxicare or MediCard.
8. Cigna Global
Cigna Global is a major international insurer with modular health plans that cover the Philippines.
- Why it works for students: Plans can be tailored to cover inpatient, outpatient, dental, vision, and mental health. Great for those who travel home or abroad during breaks.
- Strength: Global network of hospitals, seamless service in English, and portability.
- Consideration: Premiums are higher than local HMOs, but benefits are broader.
9. Allianz Care – International Student Health Insurance
Allianz Care provides plans tailored for international students and expatriates.
- Why it works for students: Flexible coverage modules let students choose the right balance of affordability and protection.
- Strength: Direct billing with many hospitals, strong mental health and preventive services.
- Consideration: International-level premiums may be above average for those on tight budgets.
10. Bupa Global
Bupa Global is often regarded as the premium choice for international coverage.
- Why it works for students: Ideal for those who want uninterrupted access to top hospitals worldwide, not just in the Philippines.
- Strength: High annual limits, worldwide network, premium service.
- Consideration: Pricing can be steep, making it more suitable for students with higher financial support.
Practical Tips for International Students
- Check your university’s policy: Some institutions require proof of health insurance before enrollment. Others may include basic coverage in tuition but allow upgrades.
- Balance cost and coverage: Don’t just pick the cheapest plan. Outpatient care and preventive services matter more than you think.
- Confirm hospital access near campus: A plan may be nationwide, but make sure your nearest hospital or clinic is included.
- Look for mental health coverage: Studying abroad can be stressful. Having access to counseling can be invaluable.
- Evaluate portability: If you plan to travel back home or visit neighboring countries, an international insurer may make more sense.
- Ask about student discounts: Some HMOs and insurers offer reduced rates for students or young adults.
Pro Tips:
Health insurance does not merely constitute a formal aspect in the Philippines, but it is an essential resource to safeguard your health and revenues. There are local HMOs such as Maxicare, MediCard, Intellicare, PhilCare, ValuCare and EastWest Healthcare and international players such as Allianz Care, Cigna Global and Bupa.
The appropriate strategy will be determined by your budget, travelling patterns, and needs in the university. A local HMO is good enough to provide everyday care at an affordable price to many students. To others, especially the travellers; or those who seek global coverage, an international insurer could be the money worth investing in.
You can decide whatever you want, however, you must find time to compare, question, and read the fine print. It is worth your health – and peace of mind.
References:
- Allianz Care. (n.d.). International student health insurance. Allianz Care. https://www.allianzcare.com/en/personal-international-health-insurance/who-we-help/students.html
- Bupa Global. (n.d.). Bupa Global: International health insurance. Bupa. https://www.bupaglobal.com
- Cigna Global. (n.d.). International health insurance in the Philippines. Cigna Global. https://www.cignaglobal.com
- EastWest Healthcare. (n.d.). EastWest Healthcare official website. EastWest Healthcare. https://eastwesthealthcare.com.ph
- Intellicare (Asalus Corporation). (n.d.). Intellicare official website. Intellicare. https://www.intellicare.com.ph
- Maxicare Healthcare Corporation. (n.d.). Maxicare official website. Maxicare. https://www.maxicare.com.ph
- MediCard Philippines, Inc. (n.d.). MediCard official website. MediCard Philippines. https://www.medicardphils.com
- Pacific Cross Philippines. (n.d.). Pacific Cross official website. Pacific Cross Philippines. https://www.pacificcross.com.ph
- PhilCare. (n.d.). PhilCare official website. PhilCare. https://www.philcare.com.ph
- ValuCare Health Systems, Inc. (n.d.). ValuCare official website. ValuCare. https://www.valucarehealth.com
