For new job seekers, Private Medical Insurance when abroad is like a parachute when flying. You may not need one but it better be there, as you and your family may not survive without one. The medical insurance plans you may need are readily available through a worldwide network of specialist Brokers, Independent Financial Advisors, or via the Plan Insurers themselves, who advertise extensively through magazines and expatriate media. Several specialist independent Brokers now have their own websites, offering multiple choices of health insurance plans. The taking of independent advice is always recommended, in order that you not only buy the right plan, but pay premiums appropriate to your new country area. Do not buy a plan without studying the policy wording carefully, particularly underwriting conditions, benefits, etc. If in doubt, ask and then complete all application forms fully, to the best of your ability.

1. Does the plan allow for cooling off periods, cancellation and then repayment of premium in full?

2. Does the plan offer "Moratorium or is it "Full underwriting" and do I need to have a medical examination before joining.

3. Does the new Insurer offer a 24 hour help line, 7 days a week, available from anywhere in the World (free phone)? Most Insurers now offer this facility

4. Are my pre-existing conditions excluded when joining and if so, for how long are such conditions excluded?

5. Does the plan allow you to continue cover unbroken through your lifetime? In most cases insurers will continue to offer existing clients cover year on year, irrespective of age or claims history. I.e.: - Once a customer, you may remain a customer, although premium rates charged can increase dramatically with old age.

6. Does the Insurer allow for any Doctor or Consultant or Hospital within the plan? Are there any restrictions in this respect? Most international plans do not place restrictions on either hospitals or Doctors, but almost all demand that their help lines are called first prior to approval of any inpatient care. (I.e.: pre qualified claim or placing of a bond with a specific hospital by Insurance Company)

7. Does the Insurer provide for direct settlement of bills presented by hospitals worldwide, regardless of location? (Or do I have to pay first?)

8. What are the Insurers procedures for Outpatient claims? Do these require any pre authorization or if stated in the plan can I just pay and claim? How long before I get my money back from the Insurer? (14 days? 28 days?)

Medical Insurance