[Fil/AmArt]

I'm just curious as to how many retirees have medical health Insurance while residing in the Philippines! I'm pretty sure the majority of us have medical insurance from our home country and can be used internationally on a reimbursement basis. But there are a few that don't have any kind of health insurance coverage due to the expensive monthly premiums as we get older and because they just pay in cash as needed from their nest egg or investments! And also, there are cases where some insurance companies have canceled people's policies for some reason and can no longer get health coverage due to a previous or present existing medical condition. Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that? A word to the wise, read the reimbursement policy before purchasing ins coverage in the Philippines if you have other forms of health coverage elsewhere! Most Philippines health care companies will ask you if you have other health insurance coverage elsewhere and if you do, they have precedence where you have to send your claims to them first before the Philippine health ins company will pay for the difference! So in other words, you pay more premiums to for your ins here and get less back in return since your other policy picked up the tab in the beginning of your claim! I hope you all understood what I just mentioned! It happens!
I'll stop here for now and continue this subject again later with more info! But give me your opinions or feed backs on this subject matter! Thanks for reading my topic! I believe it's an important subject to all residing in a 3rd world country!

This post has been edited by Art & Jho: 27 January 2010 - 10:38 AM

[stef]

health insurance is always a interesting subject as each persons needs / health is different i have looked at a few here and the rules / quotes can vary by huge amounts .
eg for a family of 3 with blue cross p44500 but with medicare p32000 now the rules and coverage with these two companies are different but i would not list that here or i will be here till the cows come home .
its just to give people an idea to the differences and until you ask for your own individual quote who knows the cost it could be more or less.

[sjp52]

Art & Jho, on 27 January 2010 - 09:51 AM, said:

I'm just curious as to how many retirees have medical health Insurance while residing in the Philippines! I'm pretty sure the majority of us have medical insurance from our home country and can be used internationally on a reimbursement basis. But there are a few that don't have any kind of health insurance coverage due to the expensive monthly premiums as we get older and because they just pay in cash as needed from their nest egg or investments! And also, there are cases where some insurance companies have canceled people's policies for some reason and can no longer get health coverage due to a previous or present existing medical condition. Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that?
I'll stop here for now and continue this subject again later with more info! But give me your opinions or feed backs on this subject matter! Thanks for reading my topic! I believe it's an important subject to all residing in a 3rd world country!

Hi Art, I have my insurance from Canada that covers me. It is free. I am staying 7 months in Philly and 5 in Canada for now. Will probably get bluecross when i am full time here. Only thing is, My Canadian insurance only covers up to 220,000 pesos when i am here in Philippines. But its free

[Fil/AmArt]

sjp52, on 27 January 2010 - 10:30 AM, said:

Art & Jho, on 27 January 2010 - 09:51 AM, said:

I'm just curious as to how many retirees have medical health Insurance while residing in the Philippines! I'm pretty sure the majority of us have medical insurance from our home country and can be used internationally on a reimbursement basis. But there are a few that don't have any kind of health insurance coverage due to the expensive monthly premiums as we get older and because they just pay in cash as needed from their nest egg or investments! And also, there are cases where some insurance companies have canceled people's policies for some reason and can no longer get health coverage due to a previous or present existing medical condition. Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that?
I'll stop here for now and continue this subject again later with more info! But give me your opinions or feed backs on this subject matter! Thanks for reading my topic! I believe it's an important subject to all residing in a 3rd world country!

Hi Art, I have my insurance from Canada that covers me. It is free. I am staying 7 months in Philly and 5 in Canada for now. Will probably get bluecross when i am full time here. Only thing is, My Canadian insurance only covers up to 220,000 pesos when i am here in Philippines. But its free

PhP220,000 is better than nothing at all. Lucky for you, your Canadian health plan is free! Just read all of the clauses that's in fine print before purchasing any medical health plans in the Philippines! Just make sure to see if it meets all your needs at an affordable price! Take cake!

[Gold Heart]

Art & Jho, on 27 January 2010 - 09:51 AM, said:

I'm just curious as to how many retirees have medical health Insurance while residing in the Philippines! I'm pretty sure the majority of us have medical insurance from our home country and can be used internationally on a reimbursement basis. But there are a few that don't have any kind of health insurance coverage due to the expensive monthly premiums as we get older and because they just pay in cash as needed from their nest egg or investments! And also, there are cases where some insurance companies have canceled people's policies for some reason and can no longer get health coverage due to a previous or present existing medical condition. Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that? A word to the wise, read the reimbursement policy before purchasing ins coverage in the Philippines if you have other forms of health coverage elsewhere! Most Philippines health care companies will ask you if you have other health insurance coverage elsewhere and if you do, they have precedence where you have to send your claims to them first before the Philippine health ins company will pay for the difference! So in other words, you pay more premiums to for your ins here and get less back in return since your other policy picked up the tab in the beginning of your claim! I hope you all understood what I just mentioned! It happens!
I'll stop here for now and continue this subject again later with more info! But give me your opinions or feed backs on this subject matter! Thanks for reading my topic! I believe it's an important subject to all residing in a 3rd world country!

I'm on the verge of signing up with Blue Cross here. It is the only viable options I have found. I am waiting for the completion of their investigation of our (family of 3) prevous coverage and pre-existing conditions to determine what they will in fact cover and as you indicated, whether I have to wait the one year. I have boderline cases of of high blood pressure and high cholesterol. They are not seriously high but right on the line between normal and high so I was receiving the lowest doses of two meds. I still have US insurance which I will maintain until the local policy is in force. The cost of insurance is 1/3 the cost of US and covers me for unlimited maximum 90 day visits to the US. I've received positive reports from current Blue Cross subscribers. I must maintain continuous coverage to ensure I can return to my US options and utlize health savings accounts. I'm concerned about changes that might happen as you indicated they might --- I've not heard that from current subscribers I've talked to.

Thanks for your contributions here.

[miker99]

sjp52, on 27 January 2010 - 10:30 AM, said:

Art & Jho, on 27 January 2010 - 09:51 AM, said:

I'm just curious as to how many retirees have medical health Insurance while residing in the Philippines! I'm pretty sure the majority of us have medical insurance from our home country and can be used internationally on a reimbursement basis. But there are a few that don't have any kind of health insurance coverage due to the expensive monthly premiums as we get older and because they just pay in cash as needed from their nest egg or investments! And also, there are cases where some insurance companies have canceled people's policies for some reason and can no longer get health coverage due to a previous or present existing medical condition. Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that?
I'll stop here for now and continue this subject again later with more info! But give me your opinions or feed backs on this subject matter! Thanks for reading my topic! I believe it's an important subject to all residing in a 3rd world country!

Sip, I'm in Canada also and I was under the impression you need to reside in Canada
for 6 months each year to keep your medical active.

It would be great if our medical here would cover for more than 6 months away.

Hi Art, I have my insurance from Canada that covers me. It is free. I am staying 7 months in Philly and 5 in Canada for now. Will probably get bluecross when i am full time here. Only thing is, My Canadian insurance only covers up to 220,000 pesos when i am here in Philippines. But its free

[sjp52]

miker99, on 30 January 2010 - 12:02 AM, said:

sjp52, on 27 January 2010 - 10:30 AM, said:

Art & Jho, on 27 January 2010 - 09:51 AM, said:

I'm just curious as to how many retirees have medical health Insurance while residing in the Philippines! I'm pretty sure the majority of us have medical insurance from our home country and can be used internationally on a reimbursement basis. But there are a few that don't have any kind of health insurance coverage due to the expensive monthly premiums as we get older and because they just pay in cash as needed from their nest egg or investments! And also, there are cases where some insurance companies have canceled people's policies for some reason and can no longer get health coverage due to a previous or present existing medical condition. Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that?
I'll stop here for now and continue this subject again later with more info! But give me your opinions or feed backs on this subject matter! Thanks for reading my topic! I believe it's an important subject to all residing in a 3rd world country!

Sip, I'm in Canada also and I was under the impression you need to reside in Canada
for 6 months each year to keep your medical active.

It would be great if our medical here would cover for more than 6 months away.

Hi Art, I have my insurance from Canada that covers me. It is free. I am staying 7 months in Philly and 5 in Canada for now. Will probably get bluecross when i am full time here. Only thing is, My Canadian insurance only covers up to 220,000 pesos when i am here in Philippines. But its free

I looked it up on the site and you can be out of the country for 7 months

[Gold Heart]

Art & Jho, on 27 January 2010 - 09:51 AM, said:

Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that? A word to the wise, read the reimbursement policy before purchasing ins coverage in the Philippines if you have other forms of health coverage elsewhere!

After nearly 3 weeks of information exchanges with Blue Cross which I provided certified proof of continuous and current coverage from my current insurer Cigna I also provided them the results of all my recent physical exams including those recently obtained to get my SRRV visa. They included Xrays, full blood work, EGK, Urine, all vitals, etc. They then wanted to see my claims history. The Medical insurers in the US do not provide this kind of information to others -- part of HIPPA regulations and thought it was extremely odd that another insurer would be asking for this information. In the interest of getting insured here within my one month goal - end of February, I went to the Cigna web site and generated and provided a report of claims in the last two years (all that Cigna makes available). The report does not give the detail of any procedure but the cost of the claim and the specific general area. They then questioned certain claims ALL of which I explained were me taking preventive and required medical tests to obtain my visa (e.g. xrays, EGK, etc.). Not due to any illness. The largest expense was for a dreaded Colonoscopy that I wanted to complete before coming here. After providing that, they then asked me yesterday to get a stress test and an 2D echo test before they would approve my policy.

All this at my expense. Fortunately I have a good doctor friend here that was able to prescribe the tests and I had them done today. This is far more than I ever expected. These tests are normally prescribed because of some problem and the folks in the lab seem to be bewildered that I did not have some condition driving me to take them.

This validates the comments that Art has made. I have yet to see where this is going and whether the saga will continue. Interested to see if other members have had this experience with Blue Cross. I will have to read my policy carefully. I will keep you posted on where this goes. I envy the Canadians.

[Gold Heart]

Gold Heart, on 03 February 2010 - 03:52 AM, said:

Art & Jho, on 27 January 2010 - 09:51 AM, said:

Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that? A word to the wise, read the reimbursement policy before purchasing ins coverage in the Philippines if you have other forms of health coverage elsewhere!

After nearly 3 weeks of information exchanges with Blue Cross which I provided certified proof of continuous and current coverage from my current insurer Cigna I also provided them the results of all my recent physical exams including those recently obtained to get my SRRV visa. They included Xrays, full blood work, EGK, Urine, all vitals, etc. They then wanted to see my claims history. The Medical insurers in the US do not provide this kind of information to others -- part of HIPPA regulations and thought it was extremely odd that another insurer would be asking for this information. In the interest of getting insured here within my one month goal - end of February, I went to the Cigna web site and generated and provided a report of claims in the last two years (all that Cigna makes available). The report does not give the detail of any procedure but the cost of the claim and the specific general area. They then questioned certain claims ALL of which I explained were me taking preventive and required medical tests to obtain my visa (e.g. xrays, EGK, etc.). Not due to any illness. The largest expense was for a dreaded Colonoscopy that I wanted to complete before coming here. After providing that, they then asked me yesterday to get a stress test and an 2D echo test before they would approve my policy.

All this at my expense. Fortunately I have a good doctor friend here that was able to prescribe the tests and I had them done today. This is far more than I ever expected. These tests are normally prescribed because of some problem and the folks in the lab seem to be bewildered that I did not have some condition driving me to take them.

This validates the comments that Art has made. I have yet to see where this is going and whether the saga will continue. Interested to see if other members have had this experience with Blue Cross. I will have to read my policy carefully. I will keep you posted on where this goes. I envy the Canadians.

Art, Truly hit the nail on the head.

With a diagnosis of borderline blood pressure under control -- taking the lowest form of diuretic, Blue Cross has informed me that they want to charge me a 20% additional premium on their rates to cover this " pre-existing condition". I find this outrageous. They may leave me no option but I have to explore other alternatives. I may just choose a lower plan options and cover the outpatient things myself.

This is important so that my family does not get our resources drained or saddled with debt in the event of a major issue. I've seen lives destroyed and families driven to bankruptcy and poverty trying to cover things with their own resources.



Does anyone know of other insurance providers and other options?

[Fil/AmArt]

Gold Heart, on 09 February 2010 - 03:17 AM, said:

Gold Heart, on 03 February 2010 - 03:52 AM, said:

Art & Jho, on 27 January 2010 - 09:51 AM, said:

Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that? A word to the wise, read the reimbursement policy before purchasing ins coverage in the Philippines if you have other forms of health coverage elsewhere!

After nearly 3 weeks of information exchanges with Blue Cross which I provided certified proof of continuous and current coverage from my current insurer Cigna I also provided them the results of all my recent physical exams including those recently obtained to get my SRRV visa. They included Xrays, full blood work, EGK, Urine, all vitals, etc. They then wanted to see my claims history. The Medical insurers in the US do not provide this kind of information to others -- part of HIPPA regulations and thought it was extremely odd that another insurer would be asking for this information. In the interest of getting insured here within my one month goal - end of February, I went to the Cigna web site and generated and provided a report of claims in the last two years (all that Cigna makes available). The report does not give the detail of any procedure but the cost of the claim and the specific general area. They then questioned certain claims ALL of which I explained were me taking preventive and required medical tests to obtain my visa (e.g. xrays, EGK, etc.). Not due to any illness. The largest expense was for a dreaded Colonoscopy that I wanted to complete before coming here. After providing that, they then asked me yesterday to get a stress test and an 2D echo test before they would approve my policy.

All this at my expense. Fortunately I have a good doctor friend here that was able to prescribe the tests and I had them done today. This is far more than I ever expected. These tests are normally prescribed because of some problem and the folks in the lab seem to be bewildered that I did not have some condition driving me to take them.

This validates the comments that Art has made. I have yet to see where this is going and whether the saga will continue. Interested to see if other members have had this experience with Blue Cross. I will have to read my policy carefully. I will keep you posted on where this goes. I envy the Canadians.

Art, Truly hit the nail on the head.

With a diagnosis of borderline blood pressure under control -- taking the lowest form of diuretic, Blue Cross has informed me that they want to charge me a 20% additional premium on their rates to cover this " pre-existing condition". I find this outrageous. They may leave me no option but I have to explore other alternatives. I may just choose a lower plan options and cover the outpatient things myself.

This is important so that my family does not get our resources drained or saddled with debt in the event of a major issue. I've seen lives destroyed and families driven to bankruptcy and poverty trying to cover things with their own resources.



Does anyone know of other insurance providers and other options?

Didn't you also mentioned that once you got medical health insurance like Blue Cross, that you plan to cancel or terminate your U.S. Cigna Insurance? Doesn't Cigna cover you while you're in the Philippines where you can file reimbursment charges if you get hospitalized in the Philippines? Because if you decided to keep your Cigna insurance while having Blue Cross here in the Philippines, Blue Cross will still have you use your Cigna first for reimbursement payments before they will pay the difference on any medical cost acquired here in the Philippines. Blue Cross will say that, Cigna is what they will refer to as the "other insurance coverage" that has priority over any claims that you may have in the future if you retain Cigna as your other insurance coverage. Blue Cross has good insurance policies depending which coverage you chose, but the premium costs may be a little expensive as you reach the age of 65 and over! Blue Cross's insurance coverage at the age of 65 and over is the same cost or more of that in the U.S.! That's why most foreigners decline to purchase health care insurance in the Philippines and would just keep what they have in their home country to use for emergencies or use their nest egg to cover their medical cost. But when their financial resources have been depleted here in the Philippines, they are forced to return to their home country for free health care for the aged! Sometimes it's a real difficult choice to make if one is going to live in the Philippines for good because of this medical factor alone! That's what all of the poor people in the Philippines have to contend with! They just have to suffer and live with their ailments and just wait to die a slow death! It's sad , but it's true!

[UZI]

Gold Heart, on 09 February 2010 - 03:17 AM, said:

Gold Heart, on 03 February 2010 - 03:52 AM, said:

Art & Jho, on 27 January 2010 - 09:51 AM, said:

Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that? A word to the wise, read the reimbursement policy before purchasing ins coverage in the Philippines if you have other forms of health coverage elsewhere!

After nearly 3 weeks of information exchanges with Blue Cross which I provided certified proof of continuous and current coverage from my current insurer Cigna I also provided them the results of all my recent physical exams including those recently obtained to get my SRRV visa. They included Xrays, full blood work, EGK, Urine, all vitals, etc. They then wanted to see my claims history. The Medical insurers in the US do not provide this kind of information to others -- part of HIPPA regulations and thought it was extremely odd that another insurer would be asking for this information. In the interest of getting insured here within my one month goal - end of February, I went to the Cigna web site and generated and provided a report of claims in the last two years (all that Cigna makes available). The report does not give the detail of any procedure but the cost of the claim and the specific general area. They then questioned certain claims ALL of which I explained were me taking preventive and required medical tests to obtain my visa (e.g. xrays, EGK, etc.). Not due to any illness. The largest expense was for a dreaded Colonoscopy that I wanted to complete before coming here. After providing that, they then asked me yesterday to get a stress test and an 2D echo test before they would approve my policy.

All this at my expense. Fortunately I have a good doctor friend here that was able to prescribe the tests and I had them done today. This is far more than I ever expected. These tests are normally prescribed because of some problem and the folks in the lab seem to be bewildered that I did not have some condition driving me to take them.

This validates the comments that Art has made. I have yet to see where this is going and whether the saga will continue. Interested to see if other members have had this experience with Blue Cross. I will have to read my policy carefully. I will keep you posted on where this goes. I envy the Canadians.

Art, Truly hit the nail on the head.

With a diagnosis of borderline blood pressure under control -- taking the lowest form of diuretic, Blue Cross has informed me that they want to charge me a 20% additional premium on their rates to cover this " pre-existing condition". I find this outrageous. They may leave me no option but I have to explore other alternatives. I may just choose a lower plan options and cover the outpatient things myself.

This is important so that my family does not get our resources drained or saddled with debt in the event of a major issue. I've seen lives destroyed and families driven to bankruptcy and poverty trying to cover things with their own resources.



Does anyone know of other insurance providers and other options?

Gold Heart,

You could try these to see if they are better for your needs:

GLOBE INSURE

INSULAR LIFE HEALTHCARE

Or internationals like:

HEALTHCARE INTERNATIONAL

BUPA

Hope you let us know if they help. Personally, as I have too many pre-existing conditions, so health insurance is a non starter.

UZI

This post has been edited by UZI: 09 February 2010 - 07:15 AM

[Gold Heart]

Art & Jho, on 09 February 2010 - 06:33 AM, said:

Didn't you also mentioned that once you got medical health insurance like Blue Cross, that you plan to cancel or terminate your U.S. Cigna Insurance? Doesn't Cigna cover you while you're in the Philippines where you can file reimbursment charges if you get hospitalized in the Philippines? Because if you decided to keep your Cigna insurance while having Blue Cross here in the Philippines, Blue Cross will still have you use your Cigna first for reimbursement payments before they will pay the difference on any medical cost acquired here in the Philippines. Blue Cross will say that, Cigna is what they will refer to as the "other insurance coverage" that has priority over any claims that you may have in the future if you retain Cigna as your other insurance coverage. Blue Cross has good insurance policies depending which coverage you chose, but the premium costs may be a little expensive as you reach the age of 65 and over! Blue Cross's insurance coverage at the age of 65 and over is the same cost or more of that in the U.S.! That's why most foreigners decline to purchase health care insurance in the Philippines and would just keep what they have in their home country to use for emergencies or use their nest egg to cover their medical cost. But when their financial resources have been depleted here in the Philippines, they are forced to return to their home country for free health care for the aged! Sometimes it's a real difficult choice to make if one is going to live in the Philippines for good because of this medical factor alone! That's what all of the poor people in the Philippines have to contend with! They just have to suffer and live with their ailments and just wait to die a slow death! It's sad , but it's true!

Yes. I intend to cancel the US Policy. I'm currently covered by Cigna under a company subsidized COBRA plan. When the subsidy ends this month, the costs rise to more than double the Blue Cross policy even with the 20% adder they just hit me with. I also have access to a retiree plan from another company and the cost of Blue Cross as over 50% less.

If I look at the cost of Blue Royale Premire plans for 66 and above they are still less than the current plans in the US both the Cobra and company retiree plans. So local Blue Cross is a MUCH MUCH better deal than US Insurance plans. The plans are equal to the current US plans when I reach the age of 80. Of course US premium costs are increasing at a ridulous pace.

I do not intend to keep both plans and will ensure this is clear so that they will be responsible for any and all claims. If I can prove continuouls coverage, I can always go back to the company sponsored retiree plans.

I think those who are referring to costs here with Blue Cross vs. cost in the US and those who are forced to return home are comparing it to Medicare at age 65. The hospitalization part of medicare is "currently" free while the outpatient costs are minimal. You can't beat free with any other commercial plan. ( most have been paying into medicare for the working life so it is not literally free).

[Gold Heart]

UZI, on 09 February 2010 - 07:09 AM, said:

Gold Heart, on 09 February 2010 - 03:17 AM, said:

Gold Heart, on 03 February 2010 - 03:52 AM, said:

Art & Jho, on 27 January 2010 - 09:51 AM, said:

Really sad how some medical insurance companies here in the Philippines discriminate against people with previous medical health conditions and are exempted from coverage until after a year waiting period and there's no guarantee that they will after the year waiting period! But even it is approved after one year, they will eventually increase your premiums after wards! Where's the reason or justice in that? A word to the wise, read the reimbursement policy before purchasing ins coverage in the Philippines if you have other forms of health coverage elsewhere!

After nearly 3 weeks of information exchanges with Blue Cross which I provided certified proof of continuous and current coverage from my current insurer Cigna I also provided them the results of all my recent physical exams including those recently obtained to get my SRRV visa. They included Xrays, full blood work, EGK, Urine, all vitals, etc. They then wanted to see my claims history. The Medical insurers in the US do not provide this kind of information to others -- part of HIPPA regulations and thought it was extremely odd that another insurer would be asking for this information. In the interest of getting insured here within my one month goal - end of February, I went to the Cigna web site and generated and provided a report of claims in the last two years (all that Cigna makes available). The report does not give the detail of any procedure but the cost of the claim and the specific general area. They then questioned certain claims ALL of which I explained were me taking preventive and required medical tests to obtain my visa (e.g. xrays, EGK, etc.). Not due to any illness. The largest expense was for a dreaded Colonoscopy that I wanted to complete before coming here. After providing that, they then asked me yesterday to get a stress test and an 2D echo test before they would approve my policy.

All this at my expense. Fortunately I have a good doctor friend here that was able to prescribe the tests and I had them done today. This is far more than I ever expected. These tests are normally prescribed because of some problem and the folks in the lab seem to be bewildered that I did not have some condition driving me to take them.

This validates the comments that Art has made. I have yet to see where this is going and whether the saga will continue. Interested to see if other members have had this experience with Blue Cross. I will have to read my policy carefully. I will keep you posted on where this goes. I envy the Canadians.

Art, Truly hit the nail on the head.

With a diagnosis of borderline blood pressure under control -- taking the lowest form of diuretic, Blue Cross has informed me that they want to charge me a 20% additional premium on their rates to cover this " pre-existing condition". I find this outrageous. They may leave me no option but I have to explore other alternatives. I may just choose a lower plan options and cover the outpatient things myself.

This is important so that my family does not get our resources drained or saddled with debt in the event of a major issue. I've seen lives destroyed and families driven to bankruptcy and poverty trying to cover things with their own resources.



Does anyone know of other insurance providers and other options?

Gold Heart,

You could try these to see if they are better for your needs:

GLOBE INSURE

INSULAR LIFE HEALTHCARE

Or internationals like:

HEALTHCARE INTERNATIONAL

BUPA

Hope you let us know if they help. Personally, as I have too many pre-existing conditions, so health insurance is a non starter.

UZI

UZI
Thanks ... this is helpful. I've already started to investigate some of these options. I wish there was a clear path and that you were not held hostage. Blue Cross may be the best option for me. I'm just pissed that they forced a 20% payment addition to deal with their risk. Dreaded pre-existing conditions.

[Fil/AmArt]

Gold Heart, on 09 February 2010 - 05:24 PM, said:

Art & Jho, on 09 February 2010 - 06:33 AM, said:

Didn't you also mentioned that once you got medical health insurance like Blue Cross, that you plan to cancel or terminate your U.S. Cigna Insurance? Doesn't Cigna cover you while you're in the Philippines where you can file reimbursment charges if you get hospitalized in the Philippines? Because if you decided to keep your Cigna insurance while having Blue Cross here in the Philippines, Blue Cross will still have you use your Cigna first for reimbursement payments before they will pay the difference on any medical cost acquired here in the Philippines. Blue Cross will say that, Cigna is what they will refer to as the "other insurance coverage" that has priority over any claims that you may have in the future if you retain Cigna as your other insurance coverage. Blue Cross has good insurance policies depending which coverage you chose, but the premium costs may be a little expensive as you reach the age of 65 and over! Blue Cross's insurance coverage at the age of 65 and over is the same cost or more of that in the U.S.! That's why most foreigners decline to purchase health care insurance in the Philippines and would just keep what they have in their home country to use for emergencies or use their nest egg to cover their medical cost. But when their financial resources have been depleted here in the Philippines, they are forced to return to their home country for free health care for the aged! Sometimes it's a real difficult choice to make if one is going to live in the Philippines for good because of this medical factor alone! That's what all of the poor people in the Philippines have to contend with! They just have to suffer and live with their ailments and just wait to die a slow death! It's sad , but it's true!

Yes. I intend to cancel the US Policy. I'm currently covered by Cigna under a company subsidized COBRA plan. When the subsidy ends this month, the costs rise to more than double the Blue Cross policy even with the 20% adder they just hit me with. I also have access to a retiree plan from another company and the cost of Blue Cross as over 50% less.

If I look at the cost of Blue Royale Premire plans for 66 and above they are still less than the current plans in the US both the Cobra and company retiree plans. So local Blue Cross is a MUCH MUCH better deal than US Insurance plans. The plans are equal to the current US plans when I reach the age of 80. Of course US premium costs are increasing at a ridulous pace.

I do not intend to keep both plans and will ensure this is clear so that they will be responsible for any and all claims. If I can prove continuouls coverage, I can always go back to the company sponsored retiree plans.

I think those who are referring to costs here with Blue Cross vs. cost in the US and those who are forced to return home are comparing it to Medicare at age 65. The hospitalization part of medicare is "currently" free while the outpatient costs are minimal. You can't beat free with any other commercial plan. ( most have been paying into medicare for the working life so it is not literally free).

If I were to purchase a medical health plan in the Philippines, Blue Cross would be my first choice, because of locality of their main office and reputable hospitals they are affiliated with. As you mentioned, their most expensive health plan for seniors is no more than that of in the U.S.. Some of the other international health plans being offered are just "go between middlemen" doing business in the Philippines after their commissions via world wide call centers! I don't like doing business via call centers if it can be avoided!
I currently received my U.S. military TRICARE health care plan which has no premiums to pay while in the Philippines and when I reach 65, I will also be able to use my U.S. Medicare benefits in conjunction with my TRICARE! I believe Cigna now has Medicare available in Manila, I read this on another forum. But you said that you plan to cancel your Cigna so it no longer will apply to you.
Well, good luck with Blue Cross!

This post has been edited by Art & Jho: 18 February 2010 - 11:38 PM

[Gold Heart]

Art & Jho, on 18 February 2010 - 11:32 PM, said:

If I were to purchase a medical health plan in the Philippines, Blue Cross would be my first choice, because of locality of their main office and reputable hospitals they are affiliated with. As you mentioned, their most expensive health plan for seniors is no more than that of in the U.S.. Some of the other international health plans being offered are just "go between middlemen" doing business in the Philippines after their commissions via world wide call centers! I don't like doing business via call centers if it can be avoided!
I currently received my U.S. military TRICARE health care plan which has no premiums to pay while in the Philippines and when I reach 65, I will also be able to use my U.S. Medicare benefits in conjunction with my TRICARE! I believe Cigna now has Medicare available in Manila, I read this on another forum. But you said that you plan to cancel your Cigna so it no longer will apply to you.
Well, good luck with Blue Cross!

I've resolved myself to Blue Cross. I was just a bit stewed that they make me pay a 20% additional premium for pre-existing borderline blood pressure. Even with that it is 1/2 to 1/3 the cost of US premiums.

As a result of the stimulous package, I get extend my Cobra coverage longer with assistance so my deadline is extended. I will sign-up for April now.

I did check with other providers including Cigna and Blue Cross appears to have the best rates -- by far. I don't know about Tricare global coverage. I checked on Medicare even though I have several years to go before 65. Medicare only covers you in the US which was the essense of the issue previously stated. Its hard to move from full hospitalization with no premium to potentially high premium costs. A US commericial plan would provide limited coverage (hospitalization) based on reimbursement while here. Medicare offers nothing while here. You of course could travel back to the US for major medical issues. Don't know if your Medicare is different?

Thanks

This post has been edited by Gold Heart: 19 February 2010 - 06:08 AM

[Fil/AmArt]

The good thing about the Military "TRICARE for Life Program" overseas for ages 65 and over, is that Medicare claims can also be reimbursed in conjunction with using TRICARE here in the Philippines! So I have no need to return to the U.S. for medical treatments or just to use my Medicare benefits. I'm not yet 65 but getting close to it! There are a lot of certified TRICARE health providers in the Philippines and we have a few just across the street from where we live which really makes it convenient for me and my wife! Also other major hospitals like Fort Med Clinic, Southern Luzon Hospital, Asian Hospital, Makati Med, St. Luke Hospital and Chinese General Hospital, all have TRICARE certified health care providers and a few in Sta. Rosa, Binan and Calamba, Laguna! And our reimbursement claims can now be submitted by way of FAX instead of mailing it in. Things are ever so surely getting better for retired military families in the Philippines!
And just in case we didn't like TRICARE, we can always go back to using Kaiser or any other health care plans in the U.S., but we'll end up paying costly monthly premiums all over again!
What's President Obama up to anyway with the Medical Reform Act?

This post has been edited by Art & Jho: 23 February 2010 - 05:09 AM

[Mik]

I opted out of my Federal Retirees health insurance when I moved here. So, I have had no medical insurance for over four years. For emergency purposes only, I keep a high limit credit card (with zero balance). I just pay as I go for any needed health care.


Platoon (1986)
Sgt. O'Neill: "Bob, I got a bad feeling on this one, all right? I mean I got a bad feeling! I don't think I'm gonna make it outta here! D'ya understand what I'm sayin' to you?"
Sgt. Barnes: "Everybody gotta die some time, Red."


.

[Gold Heart]

UZI, on 09 February 2010 - 07:09 AM, said:

Gold Heart,

You could try these to see if they are better for your needs:

GLOBE INSURE

INSULAR LIFE HEALTHCARE

Or internationals like:

HEALTHCARE INTERNATIONAL

BUPA

Hope you let us know if they help. Personally, as I have too many pre-existing conditions, so health insurance is a non starter.

UZI

I was able to locate a consolidator who provided a summary analysis for a variety of insurance providers. This does not include Blue Cross that I have decided to go with as the best options based on my circumstances.

I hope some may find this helpful as you explore options.

Attached File(s)

•  Medical Overview - Insurance Plans.pdf (95.69K)
  Number of downloads: 5

This post has been edited by Gold Heart: 12 April 2010 - 04:22 AM

[Gold Heart]

Morey, on 24 February 2010 - 03:34 AM, said:

I opted out of my Federal Retirees health insurance when I moved here. So, I have had no medical insurance for over four years. For emergency purposes only, I keep a high limit credit card (with zero balance). I just pay as I go for any needed health care.


Platoon (1986)
Sgt. O'Neill: "Bob, I got a bad feeling on this one, all right? I mean I got a bad feeling! I don't think I'm gonna make it outta here! D'ya understand what I'm sayin' to you?"
Sgt. Barnes: "Everybody gotta die some time, Red."


.

The only thing you have to worry about is an expensive catastrophic event. This is the major cause of bankruptcy in the US and could have the same consequences here. Of couse you could decide to forgo heart surgery or a major organ transplant and just pray for a miracle or decide your time has come.

I saw a personal story here that an expats entire wealth was consumed for heart surgery which he went back to the US to have done. Under 65 with no health insurance, the costs had to come out of his personal savings. He unfortunatley passed away a year later now leaving his family with nothing. If you are very very wealthy this is also not a concern.


The cost of standard care is not a concern and is generally very inexpensive.

[Fil/AmArt]

Just a few more tid bit of information to inform our fellow expats living in the Philippines concerned about medical health insurance.
Below are just a few Health Care Insurance providers in the Philippines that may be of interest to you that has not been mentioned amongst the other threads here on this topic.

Just click on the links below.

http://www.globalhea...dical-insurance

http://www.kainoshealth.net/

https://915230920240...&attredirects=1

https://915230920240...&attredirects=1

[Fil/AmArt]

Mik, on 24 February 2010 - 03:34 AM, said:

I opted out of my Federal Retirees health insurance when I moved here. So, I have had no medical insurance for over four years. For emergency purposes only, I keep a high limit credit card (with zero balance). I just pay as I go for any needed health care. 


Morey

Morey or is it Mik now?

I just noticed your thread about you opting out of your Federal Retiree Health Insurance Plan. Did you actually have the plan while working prior to your retirement? In my case, I kept mine until we received our medical benefits from my military service from the U.S.A.F. Reserves. I just suspended my Federal Health Insurance policy, because canceling or terminating our policy would prevent us from reinstating our Federal Health Insurance in the event we decided to go back to retain our previous original health care coverage in the future. At the present time, my wife and I are using our "TRICARE Standard" oversea military health care system in the Philippines which has no monthly premiums to pay, except for our 25% cost share of our total medical bills and our $300 annual co-payment. Anything over $3,000 within the year is 100% reimbursable and there are no pre-exsisting illness medical clauses like there are with Philippine local health insurance plans, where one has to to wait one year before they cover the pre-exsisting illness, which isn't guaranteed and if it is accepted, your premiums may be increased by 20%!
Anyways, as long as you have a high limit credit card, and can afford to pay your medical bills, then you're OK.
Hope to hear from you again and find out how you are doing! I'm just concerned because I haven't seen any other posts you have made recently concerning this topic. Take care!

[Mik]

I'm not a fan of the modern medical monopoly. Going to one of their hospitals or doctors very often leaves a person worse off if not dead. I don't call it health insurance because it has nothing at all to do with health. Eating poisons and letting them cut you is not health. It's more like assault and robbery.

Anyway, I did have government insurance while working. When I retired I told personnel (call it human resources but it sounds like we're just numbered parts in the company inventory) to stop my gov't insurance. It was going to cost me about $300 a month. What a scam. They said that once stopped it can't be resumed later. That's fine by me.

I don't have any medical bills or prescription drug bills. I've been retired for 6 years and am quite healthy. The simple secret is to be moderate in habits, get some exercise, have a diet like your great-parents (lots of meat and fat and eggs, low carb) and as much as possible avoid doctors and their advice.


.

[Fil/AmArt]

Mik,

Good to know that you're still around and kicking! Yeah, I know what you mean about doctors! Luckily we don't have a lot of ailments! We just do the occasional physical exams once every 3 yrs or so, but since I'm diabetic, I require lab tests every 6 months to see how my meds are working! You see, I've only had diabetes just the past 2 yrs, but I'm certain I had it for at least 7 yrs, because these quack doctors couldn't put their fingers on it why I had certain high levels of everything from my lab test results and all of a sudden, Wala! I had out of control diabetes and had to be treated right away! Now, my diabetes is under control and I feel fine now for the past year and doing well with my meds. Other than that, I'm good to go and am able to enjoy my retirement for many years to come! And luckily, I too got rid of my Federal Health Plan by just suspending it and that $500 a month premium went back into my pocket as extra cash each and every month! So now, that $500 a month extra cash just goes into our nest egg in the bank for rainy days!
Good to hear from you and doing well! Just stick to them meats, fats, eggs and low carbs and you'll do AOK! Take care!

This post has been edited by MrBBtheFilAm: 02 July 2010 - 02:58 AM