How International Health Insurance Works And Why You Might Need It

Why International Health Insurance Isn’t Optional Anymore

Planning to work in Canada? Studying in Europe? Or maybe you’re off to explore Asia long-term? Wherever you’re headed, one thing’s for sure: healthcare abroad can get expensive—fast. A single night in a U.S. hospital, especially in the ICU or without insurance, can cost over $10,000 per day. Even in countries like Singapore, minor outpatient procedures can still run into the thousands.
 

That’s why international health insurance is no longer just “nice to have”—it’s a must. Whether you're traveling, working, studying, or living abroad, having the right global medical coverage ensures you’re protected from surprise bills and stress when the unexpected happens.
 

With a plan like Oona Global Shield, your coverage travels with you—giving you access to doctors, hospitals, and support no matter where you are in the world.
 

In this guide, we’ll break down:
 

• Local vs international health insurance – and which one you really need
  
  

• What global travel insurance covers (and what it doesn’t)
  
  

• How to understand plan levels, deductibles, and common exclusions
  
  

• Real-life examples to help you choose the best plan for your needs
   

Whether you’re a digital nomad, expat, student, or long-term traveler, this guide will help you make smarter choices for your health abroad.

1. What Is International Health Insurance?

If you’re living, working, or studying abroad, your local health insurance probably won’t follow you. That’s where international health insurance comes in—it’s a long-term, worldwide medical plan designed for people who spend extended time outside their home country.
 

Unlike short-term travel insurance, which usually only covers flight delays, lost luggage, or minor emergencies, international health insurance provides broader, more serious coverage. Think of it as full medical protection for your life abroad—similar to what you’d get back home, sometimes even better.
 

Most international plans cover things like:
 

• Hospital stays and surgery (inpatient and outpatient care)
  
  

• Emergency treatments and ambulance services
  
  

• Specialist doctor visits and diagnostics
  
  

• Routine check-ups and annual screenings
  
  

• Maternity and mental health care (in certain tiers)
  
  

• Optional dental and vision benefits in more premium plans
   

If you’re a Filipino heading overseas, international health insurance is a smart investment, especially if:
 

• You’re an OFW working in the Middle East, Europe, or Asia
  
  

• You’re a student abroad and want more coverage than what your school offers
  
  

• You’re a digital nomad or remote worker moving between countries
  
  

• You’re a frequent traveller needing reliable international healthcare coverage that travels with you
   

Unlike one-time travel insurance, a plan like Oona Global Shield gives you year-round coverage with access to international hospitals, treatment, and peace of mind wherever you go.
 

So what really makes global health coverage different from the insurance you already have at home? Let’s break it down in the next section.

2. How Is It Different from Typical Health Insurance Plans in the Philippines?

If you’ve used PhilHealth or an HMO, you already know how local healthcare coverage works. These are solid options—especially if you’re employed in the Philippines. But once you step outside the country, their protection doesn’t go very far.
 

So how does international health insurance compare? Let’s break it down.

Why this matters for Filipinos abroad
 

A PhilHealth card might be useful in Manila—but it won’t get you far in Dubai, Sydney, or Toronto. And if you’re working or studying abroad, relying on your local HMO could leave you paying out-of-pocket for even basic care.
 

Oona Global Shield is built for global living. It’s portable, flexible, and gives you access to world-class healthcare wherever you are—no need to fly home for treatment or worry about massive bills.
 

So if your time abroad is more than a quick vacation, it’s time to upgrade from local coverage to something that matches your lifestyle.
 

Ready to see how it all works in real life? Let’s walk through how international health insurance actually works, from choosing a plan to filing a claim abroad. 

3. How Does International Health Insurance Work?

At first glance, international health insurance might look complex, but it’s designed to be simple and reliable when it really counts. Whether you’re applying for a visa, starting a new job abroad, or preparing for long-term travel, understanding how your plan works can make a big difference.
 

Here’s a step-by-step look at how a plan like Oona Global Shield works and how to make it work for you.

Step 1: Choose Your Plan

Every global lifestyle is different. That’s why international health plans come in different tiers to fit your needs, travel habits, and budget.

These annual limits represent the maximum medical costs your plan will cover per year, so you can match your coverage to the level of risk or care you expect.

Once you’ve picked a base plan, you can customize it further to suit your situation:
 

• Deductibles (choose from US$ 1,000 / 2,500 / 5,000)
  A higher deductible means lower premiums. Choose based on what you can comfortably pay out-of-pocket if needed.
  
  

• Optional Add-Ons
  Add benefits like maternity, dental, vision, or personal accident protection, depending on your stage in life and health needs.
  
  

• Geographic Coverage
  Want to exclude the U.S. and Canada to save on premiums? You can—this can lower your total cost by up to 25% while still giving you broad international protection.
   

This flexibility means you’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all plan. Whether you're a student in Australia, a freelancer in Spain, or an OFW in Qatar, you can build a plan that fits your lifestyle and your wallet.

Step 2: Access Medical Care Abroad

So, what happens when you actually need to see a doctor or get treatment overseas?
 

With a plan like Oona Global Shield, getting care is designed to be smooth and stress-free, especially when you’re in a new country.
 

Here’s how it works:
 

1. Go to a partner hospital or clinic
   Oona has a wide global network of hospitals and medical providers. Simply visit one near you whether it’s for a check-up, a sudden illness, or emergency care.
   
   

2. Show your Oona e-card
   Present your digital membership card at the reception. For covered services, you’ll enjoy direct billing. This means the hospital bills Oona directly, so you don’t have to pay upfront.
   
   

3. Outside the network? No problem
   If you're treated at a non-partner hospital, you can pay first and file a reimbursement claim later. Just keep all receipts and medical records.
    

Quick Tip:
 

Getting medical help abroad doesn't have to be complicated. With the right coverage, it's as easy as showing your card.

Next: Let’s walk through how to file a claim (if you ever need to), and what to expect in terms of support and speed.

Step 3: Claims and Reimbursement

Sometimes, you might get treatment at a hospital or clinic outside Oona’s network or in a situation where direct billing isn’t available. Don’t worry, you can still get your money back through a simple claims process.
 

Here’s what to do:
 

1. Submit your claim online
   Head to Oona’s member portal or contact their customer service to start your claim. It’s fast, paperless, and can be done from anywhere.
   
   

2. Upload your documents
   You’ll need to attach a few things, like the medical report, official receipts, and any prescriptions or test results. These help Oona verify the treatment and process your reimbursement faster.
   
   

3. Wait for review and reimbursement
   Once submitted, Oona’s team reviews your claim based on your chosen plan’s benefits, limits, and exclusions. If everything checks out, you’ll receive your reimbursement, typically via bank transfer.
    

Pro Tip:
 

For faster claims, always ask for detailed, itemized receipts and keep a digital copy of your documents. It makes the process smoother and helps avoid delays.

Step 4: Renew Your Plan Annually

International health insurance isn’t just a one-time thing, it’s a long-term safety net that grows with you.
 

With Oona Global Shield, your plan is renewable every year up to age 99, so you can keep your coverage no matter where life takes you.
 

Here’s how the renewal process works:
 

1. Get a yearly reminder
   Before your plan expires, you’ll receive a renewal notice with updates on your premium, benefits, or terms—so you can review it ahead of time.
   
   

2. Make updates as needed
   Life abroad changes fast. Whether you’re moving to a new region, expecting a baby, or switching jobs, you can adjust your coverage, deductible, or geographic area during renewal.
   
   

3. Keep your protection going
   As long as you renew on time, your global health coverage continues uninterrupted—no need to reapply or restart the waiting period.
    

In short:

You choose a plan, get care when needed, and Oona takes care of the paperwork, whether through direct billing or quick reimbursements. It’s health insurance that actually works while you’re living or traveling abroad.
 

Now, one of the most common questions we hear is:
 

“Magkano ba talaga ‘to?”
 

Let’s dive into what affects the cost of international health insurance and what you can expect to pay for peace of mind overseas.

4. How Much Does International Health Insurance Cost?

One of the first things most Filipinos ask is:
“Magkano ba talaga ang international health insurance?”
 

It’s a fair question—and the answer depends on a few key factors. While there’s no one-size-fits-all price tag, understanding what affects your premium can help you find the right balance between coverage and cost.
 

Here’s a quick look at what goes into your international health insurance quote:

Cost Factors

Wondering what international health insurance might actually cost you?

Here are some simulated premium examples to give you an idea, based on real-life expat profiles.

Disclaimer: Premiums shown are for illustration only. Final rates are subject to underwriting and may vary depending on your personal health profile, coverage selections, and geographic location.

How to Lower Your Premium

Looking to get the best value without compromising on coverage? Here are a few smart ways to lower your premium while still staying protected abroad:
 

1. Choose a higher deductible
   Opting for a higher deductible (the amount you pay out-of-pocket before coverage kicks in) can significantly reduce your annual premium. Just be sure it’s an amount you’re comfortable covering in an emergency.
   
   

2. Exclude high-cost countries
   Healthcare in places like the U.S. and Canada is much more expensive—so excluding these regions from your plan can lower your premium by up to 25%. If you don’t plan to visit these countries, this is an easy way to save.
   
   

3. Stick to essential coverage
   Only add the benefits you truly need. If you don’t require maternity, dental, or vision coverage, leave them off to keep your plan lean and affordable.
    

The takeaway? Oona Global Shield gives you the flexibility to build a plan that fits your needs and your budget. With smart choices around deductibles, coverage areas, and optional add-ons, you can get reliable global protection without overspending.
 

Now that you know how pricing works, the next step is picking a plan that fits your lifestyle.
 

Whether you're a student, OFW, or digital nomad, here’s how to choose the right coverage for you. 

5. How to Choose the Right International Health Insurance Plan

Picking the best international health insurance plan isn’t just about going for the lowest price—it’s about finding the right balance between protection, practicality, and peace of mind.
 

Whether you're a young professional, a family abroad, or a retiree enjoying life overseas, your plan should match your lifestyle, location, and health needs.
 

Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:

Step 1: Understand Your Profile

A Quick Tip: Think about more than just today. Are you planning to stay long-term? Might you travel to high-cost countries like the U.S.? Do you want coverage for pregnancy or preventive care? These questions will help guide your decision.

Step 2: Check Your Travel Pattern

Where you plan to go—and how often—can make a big difference in your premium. That’s why it’s important to align your coverage area with your actual travel habits.
 

Here’s how to make a smart choice:
 

• Will you be visiting the U.S., Canada, or Japan regularly?
  These countries have some of the highest medical costs in the world. If you’ll be spending time there for work, study, or family visits, it’s best to include them in your coverage area so you’re protected from expensive bills.
  
  
• Not planning to go to those countries anytime soon?
  You can exclude high-cost regions (like the U.S. and Canada) from your plan and save up to 25% on your premium—while still being covered in most other countries across Asia, Europe, and beyond.
   

Pro Tip:
 

Be honest with your travel plans. Excluding a region to save money only works if you don’t end up needing care there. If there’s a chance you’ll visit, it’s safer to keep it in.

Step 3: Evaluate Deductibles

One of the most effective ways to lower your international health insurance premium is by adjusting your deductible, the amount you agree to pay out-of-pocket before your coverage kicks in.
 

With Oona Global Shield, choosing a higher deductible can lead to substantial savings, especially if you’re healthy and unlikely to make frequent claims.
 

Here’s a look at how the discounts break down by plan tier: 

Tip: The higher your deductible, the more you save—but make sure it’s an amount you’re financially comfortable covering if something unexpected happens. For many expats, this trade-off is worth it for the lower premium.
 

You can save even more—up to 25% additionally—by excluding high-cost countries like the U.S., Canada, Japan, and Singapore from your coverage area (if you're not planning to go there). 

Step 4: Decide on Optional Add-Ons

One of the perks of international health insurance is that it’s not one-size-fits-all. You can personalize your coverage based on your lifestyle, needs, and future plans.
 

Here are some optional add-ons to consider when building your plan:
 

• Planning a pregnancy abroad?
  Add or choose a plan with maternity coverage to cover prenatal check-ups, delivery, and newborn care, especially helpful for couples or growing families living overseas.
  
  

• Need regular dental work or glasses?
  Consider including dental and vision benefits. These typically cover cleanings, fillings, annual eye exams, and even prescription lenses—useful for students, professionals, or anyone who values routine care.
   

• Active lifestyle or extreme sports?
  If you’re traveling often, into outdoor adventures, or just want extra protection, personal accident insurance can help cover injuries from accidents that aren’t illness-related.

Pro Tip: Only add the extras you really need. Skipping non-essential benefits can help keep your international insurance premium affordable.

Step 5: Think Long-Term

When choosing international health insurance, don’t just plan for the next few months—think years ahead.
 

Whether you're building a career abroad, starting a family, or relocating permanently, your needs will evolve. That’s why it’s important to choose a plan that grows with you.
 

Here’s what to keep in mind:
 

• Choose a plan you can renew yearly up to age 99
  Look for a plan like Oona Global Shield, which is renewable every year up to age 99. That means you can keep your coverage long-term, without reapplying or resetting waiting periods.
  
  

• Make sure it’s adaptable as your life evolves
  Life abroad can change quickly. Choose a plan that lets you:
   

  • Add dependents like a spouse or child
     

  • Adjust your coverage as your needs shift
     

  • Switch geographic areas if you move countries
     

TL;DR:
Having a flexible, long-term plan means you won’t have to start over each time life changes. You’ll stay protected no matter where your journey takes you.

Conclusion

Whether you're building a career overseas, studying in a new country, or living life as a full-time traveler, one thing stays the same: your health should always come first.
 

A Philippine HMO or PhilHealth card may work back home, but once you cross borders, it’s a different story. That’s where Oona Global Shield steps in.
 

With:
 

• Customizable international coverage
  
  

• Direct billing in hospitals worldwide
  
  

• And protection for everything from emergencies to mental health and maternity care
  
  

…it’s built for Filipinos living, working, or studying abroad who need reliable, long-term peace of mind.
 

The Bottom Line:
 

Don’t wait for a health emergency to figure things out. Choose a plan that’s as ready for the world as you are.