Medical evacuation, often referred to as medevac, is the process of transporting an injured or critically ill person to a medical facility where they can receive appropriate care. This service becomes particularly crucial when employees work in regions where local medical facilities may not meet international standards. In those cases, getting swift and appropriate medical care becomes essential.
Whether your organisation has offices around the world or employs team members on specialised international assignments, managing international employees comes with significant responsibilities. Ensuring the well-being and safety of these employees is a paramount concern for organisations. While it may be rare, it’s important to be prepared for one of the most serious situations – medical evacuation.
Understanding medical evacuation
The role of employers in medical evacuation for globally mobile employees
For businesses with globally mobile employees, it's essential to take a proactive approach to medical evacuation. Here are some key considerations:
Risk assessment
Begin by conducting a comprehensive risk assessment when your employee first arrives in their host country, before any incidents occur. Identify potential health and safety risks they may face based on their destination and job responsibilities. This assessment will help determine the level of medical evacuation coverage needed.
Insurance coverage
We strongly advise that comprehensive insurance coverage, which includes medical evacuation services, be provided to all employees working internationally or in remote locations. It ensures that employees can receive timely and specialised medical care when needed, including evacuation.
24/7 support
Medical emergencies can happen at any time. Ensure that employees have access to 24/7 assistance services for medical emergencies. Allianz Partners’ Evacuation Team provides round-the-clock assistance to the family of the medically evacuated person(s), ensuring that everyone stays informed throughout the process.
Regular training
Training employees on safety protocols and first-aid measures can mean the difference between life or death in a serious situation abroad. Provide this as a standard measure to all international employees, and give regular updated training where needed.
Continuous monitoring
Regularly review and update your medical evacuation plan to account for changing circumstances and emerging risks. Depending on any new developments or destinations your employees may move to, you may need to make changes to your international healthcare policy.
Medical evacuation is not just a safety net; it's a lifeline for globally mobile employees. Implementing a robust medical evacuation strategy ensures that your employees can perform their roles confidently, knowing that help is always within reach, no matter where they are in the world.
For more information about medical evacuation and repatriation insurance and our international health insurance plans, please contact sales support on +353 1 514 8406 (8am-5:30pm (GMT), Monday to Friday).
Alternatively you can get an individual international health insurance quote or more information on Corporate Group Scheme International Health Insurance, online now.
