Understanding International Health Insurance Coverage

Introduction

Navigating healthcare options while living or traveling abroad can be a complex task. For expatriates, frequent travelers, or individuals who reside part-time outside their country of origin, International Health Insurance offers peace of mind and access to world-class medical care—wherever you are.

At Hernández Peguero Insurance Brokers, we understand the unique needs of global citizens. This guide explores what International Health Insurance entails, its most common benefits, and why it might be the right choice for you or your family.

What Is International Health Insurance?

International Health Insurance is designed for individuals who require comprehensive medical coverage across multiple countries. Unlike travel insurance, which focuses on emergency care during short trips, international health plans provide long-term coverage for routine check-ups, hospitalization, chronic conditions, and more.

These policies are ideal for:

• Residents

• Expats living in the Dominican Republic

• Digital nomads and remote workers

• Retirees relocating abroad

• Frequent travelers who need medical flexibility

Key Benefits of International Health Insurance

While coverage varies by provider and plan, most international health insurance policies offer a core set of valuable benefits.

🌍 Worldwide Hospital Access

One of the most attractive features is the freedom to choose any hospital worldwide. Whether you need a scheduled procedure or an emergency treatment abroad, you're not limited to a local network.

🏥 U.S. Medical Care Without Deductible

Plans often include access to top medical facilities in the U.S. with no deductible and a $25 copayment per consultation. When using selected networks (like Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, Baptist Health, and UHealth), deductibles in the U.S. can be reduced by up to 50%.

🗺️ Global Provider Networks

These plans offer access to a broad network of medical providers in the Dominican Republic and around the world—ensuring timely treatment wherever you are.

💵 Unified Deductible

Many policies implement a single deductible that applies both in and outside the country of residence. Even if a claim is paid locally through a Dominican insurer, it typically counts toward your international deductible.

⏳ Pre-existing Condition Coverage

Pre-existing conditions are generally covered after a waiting period, with an annual limit (depending on the plan and insurance company), helping patients manage chronic health issues responsibly.

Examples of Common Coverages

Although coverage may vary by plan and insurance provider, the following are examples of common benefits found in international health insurance policies:

• Ambulatory Medicine: Up to US$10,000 annually

• High-Cost Medications: Door-to-door delivery available

• Scheduled Medical Transport in the U.S.: Included in select plans

• Tubal Ligation (Ligadura de trompa): US$1,000

• Vasectomy: US$500

• Bariatric Surgery: Up to US$10,000 after 24 months

• Life Insurance Benefit: US$15,000 in case of death or total disability of the policyholder

• Premium Waiver: 3-year premium exemption in case of death of the policyholder

These benefits are designed to offer robust protection and flexibility for individuals and families living abroad.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility requirements tend to be inclusive:

• Adults up to age 71 can enroll.

• Children up to 18, or up to 30 if financially dependent and studying full-time, are also eligible.

• Children studying abroad may remain covered until age 24.

Waiting Periods and Deductibles

⏱️ Waiting Periods

• Most illnesses have a 60-day waiting period after policy activation.

• Pre-existing conditions: 24 months

• Maternity: typically 10 months

💳 Deductible Options

Typical deductible tiers include:

• USD 1,000

• USD 2,500

• USD 5,000

Plans may offer a 50% deductible reduction when care is received in select countries or medical networks.

Travel Assistance & Additional Services

Comprehensive international policies often go beyond just medical expenses:

• Second medical opinions

• Telemedicine access

• Hospitalization coordination

• Emergency transportation

• Hotel stay for recovery

• Organ transplant coverage

• Home nurse care (up to 90 days)

• Routine health check-ups

• Mental health support

These services are designed to support the policyholder and their family through every health-related need, even while abroad

What Does It Cost?

Prices vary depending on age, plan type, and deductible. As an example:

Starting from USD $152.04 per month for an 18-year-old on a local zero-deductible plan.

As your insurance advisor, we will help tailor a plan that balances affordability with adequate protection based on your needs.

Why Choose Hernández Peguero?

At Hernández Peguero Insurance Brokers, we specialize in providing expats and international residents in the Dominican Republic with reliable insurance solutions. Here's why clients choose us:

• Direct partnerships with top-rated international insurers

• Personalized, bilingual service

• Fast claims support and medical guidance

• Transparent advice tailored to your health goals

Whether you're relocating, retiring, or splitting time between countries, we’ll guide you through the selection process and ensure you're well protected.

Ready to Get a Quote?

📩 Contact us today and let’s find the right international health insurance solution for you.

Phone/WhatsApp: +1 849-514-9838
Email: info@hernandezpeguero.com
Website: www.hernandezpeguero.com

We’re here to serve expats, retirees, digital nomads, and families who call the Dominican Republic home—full-time or part-time.