Healthcare systems abroad: which destinations to choose?
When you're planning a trip with family or friends, whether you're young or old, your health is an important consideration. Choosing a destination with a quality healthcare system will give you peace of mind during your stay abroad. Here's our list of countries which, in addition to their tourist appeal, have renowned healthcare systems.
Japan: modern medical infrastructures
Japan stands out for its high-quality healthcare system, with modern medical facilities staffed by highly qualified medical professionals. As a traveler, you'll benefit from easy access to care and a high level of medical service.
Singapore: quality healthcare
Singapore is renowned for its state-of-the-art medical infrastructure. World-class medical facilities, combined with competent medical staff, make Singapore an ideal destination for those who wish to benefit from quality care in the event of a problem.
Germany: renowned medical facilities
Germany stands out for its renowned medical institutions and its commitment to medical excellence. As a traveler, you'll benefit from a high-level health service. The European Health Insurance Card can be presented in the event of an emergency during your stay.
Australia: affordable healthcare
Australia offers a modern and accessible healthcare system. As a traveler, you can access high-quality medical services in both major cities and more remote regions. However, if you're planning a road trip to the outback, check where the hospitals are on your itinerary in case you need them.
France: a well-established healthcare system
France is known for its well-established healthcare system, offering quality medical care despite staff shortages in some establishments. In case of emergency, you'll be taken care of, and you'll be able to provide your European Health Insurance Card.
Canada: a healthcare system for all
Canada is renowned for its inclusive healthcare system. As a traveler, you'll benefit from access to quality medical care, whether in the major cities or the more remote areas of this vast territory.
Coverage of medical expenses abroad
If you're traveling temporarily to a country in the European Union, EFTA or the UK, you can show your European Health Insurance Card if you need emergency medical care. In most cases, you'll have to pay the costs on the spot, or you'll receive a bill at home. Visit the LaMal website for more information.
If you are traveling temporarily to a country outside the EU, EFTA or the UK, emergency medical expenses will be covered and may be up to double the amount that would have been paid had the treatment taken place in Switzerland.
Visit the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health website for more information.
The need for travel insurance
In the event of a medical problem or accident while traveling abroad, it's important to be properly insured. Ask for your European Health Insurance Card if you're going to the EU, EFTA or the UK, so you can present it if necessary. Please note, however, that depending on the cost of the medical services provided, you may only be partially reimbursed by your basic health insurance. That's why travel insurance covering medical expenses abroad is essential if you want to leave with peace of mind and avoid heavy financial burdens in the event of a problem.
In addition to medical expenses, travel insurance also protects you in the event of cancellation, interruption, repatriation (which can cost up to CHF 100,000K and more), problems with your luggage...
Discover Europ Assistance Switzerland's Comfort option to protect you for one trip or all year round.
