Prevention is better than a cure' say expats

So it seems that once again an age old adage does hold true today, with an overwhelming majority of people saying that ‘prevention is better than a cure’, according to the results of a Healthcare poll.

MediCare International asked the question, “Do you agree annual Healthcare check-ups are useful?” in a recent website mini poll and over 88 per cent responded with a resounding ‘YES’.

These results fit perfectly with annual MediCare International trend research which showed that wellbeing facilities were one of the most sought after features within a Healthcare policy. David Pryor, Senior Executive Director, MediCare International said: “We know from our research that people are becoming more health aware and are now looking carefully at their lifestyle, changing their diet and exercise wherever possible. Being prepared and health aware is even more important when you are living and working overseas where it can be difficult to seek reassurance and find the right facilities.

“Part of being prepared entails putting in place your international Healthcare policy before you leave the UK. Our research also tells us that there are still around 50 per cent of UK expatriates around the world without international Healthcare Insurance. Clearly these people are gambling on their health or that local facilities will be able to cope with whatever Healthcare problem may arise.

"This is particularly dangerous when families and children are involved, especially when we look at the increase of chronic illnesses such as diabetes or asthma. These need ongoing treatment and drugs – costs which can rise alarmingly if there is no Healthcare Insurance in place.”

Pryor concluded: “Each year our research shows that cover for chronic conditions is one of the most sought after policy features. That’s because many international Healthcare policies will only cover costs while the client is hospitalised – as soon as the patient is released and the initial illness treated, cover against the cost of ongoing medication can cease. That’s why cover for chronic costs has always been high on our list of priorities.”