Being a digital nomad presents specific challenges when it comes to health insurance – it’s not the same as purchasing a policy at home. Traditional health insurance plans may not adequately cover your lifestyle, as they often have geographic limitations or limited coverage for extended periods abroad.
As a digital nomad, having the freedom to work remotely and explore the world at the same time is exhilarating. But while you’re adventuring, it's essential not to overlook the importance of having proper insurance coverage, especially when it comes to your health.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to navigate the world of health insurance for digital nomads – the factors to consider, types of policies, and how to manage your health as a digital nomad.
Why do digital nomads need health insurance?
What should I look for in digital nomad health insurance?
- Flexibility: Look for an insurance plan that provides coverage across multiple countries you may be interested in living in, allowing you to travel freely and access medical services without worrying about your coverage lapsing.
- Comprehensive coverage: Seek out policies that cover a wide range of medical treatments, including routine check-ups, emergency services, hospital stays, and prescription medications. Policies that also cover dental treatment and mental health treatment are ideal, as you can make sure all more of your healthcare bases are covered.
- Repatriation coverage: If you are involved in a serious accident or contract a severe illness, you will want peace of mind that you can access the treatment you need. Ensure that your insurance company covers medical evacuation or repatriation, which cover the cost of travelling for medical treatment should it not be available locally.
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions: If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, it's essential to find insurance plans that cover them. From prescriptions to hospital treatments, you will want to make sure that your health is looked after no matter where you are.
Additional insurance options for digital nomads
As well as health insurance, there are a few other insurance needs that digital nomads should be aware of.
Travel insurance
Consider purchasing digital nomad travel insurance before you embark on your next trip. Travel insurance covers many annoyances such as trip cancellations, lost luggage, and missed connections. While most travel insurance policies do include coverage for medical emergencies, if you are planning on spending an extended period of time abroad, it makes sense to choose a dedicated international health insurance policy for better protection.
Personal liability insurance
When accidents or incidents occur while travelling, you want to ensure that you’re protected. Personal liability insurance can provide financial coverage and legal assistance in situations where you are found liable for accidentally injuring someone or damaging their property. These situations are rare but they can be very stressful for expats, and it’s important to research whether your travel insurance policy includes this kind of coverage.
Personal property insurance
While working abroad, you probably carry a lot of expensive equipment, including laptops, phones, tablets, cameras, or hard drives. Consider coverage for your valuable belongings, such as laptops, cameras, and other equipment. International personal property insurance policies are available that can cover your personal items while they’re in transit as you move from place to place.
Managing your health as a digital nomad
As well as keeping on top of your insurance needs, your health should be a top priority as a digital nomad. It can be difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on the go, but there are a number of ways you can keep your health in check.
Remember the basics
Your healthy lifestyle while abroad depends on many of the same factors as at home. Engage in regular exercise, eat balanced meals, and get good sleep. Prioritise self-care and look after your mental health by maintaining a social network and avoid too much alcohol. These tips sound simple, but are often the first to fall by the wayside while travelling.
Keep on top of your preventative care
Stay up to date with vaccinations (pay attention to any country-specific ones you may need) and health screenings, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions. Consult with a trusted healthcare provider in each new country you visit and ensure you’re getting the care you need.
Embrace technology
Depending on your insurance provider, you may have access to many virtual healthcare services that allow you to speak to doctors and get prescriptions remotely. If you travel to a remote location, having access to remote healthcare can provide you with real peace of mind.
While the digital nomad lifestyle offers freedom and adventure for workers, it's essential to prioritise your health and wellbeing. Allianz Partners’s international health insurance plans help protect expat individuals, professionals, students and families as they work and live abroad. Explore our plans and choose the digital nomad healthcare cover for you.
