Health Insurance Plans

in different countries

1.) France
Famed for the quality of its health services, it is not surprising to see France close to
the top of the pile. The country's average life expectancy is 82.First and foremost, it is important to note
that health insurance coverage in France is required by law. Most expats are eligible to apply for state
health insurance, which affords them access to the French healthcare system. Individuals who are not
covered by state health insurance, as well as those looking to increase their health coverage, should
consider securing private health insurance. Here’s a brief summary about the two options work:

Statutory health insurance

All residents including foreign workers who plan to stay long-term in France are eligible for state medical
insurance. Since January 2016, statutory health insurance is universally granted under the PUMA
(protection universelle maladie) law.

Private health insurance

Due to the fact that universal health coverage does not cover 100% of medical treatment costs, many
expats will consider taking out a private health insurance plan in France even if they are covered by
statutory health insurance, as a private plan will provide further protection against additional fees, as well as
access to a wider range of services with comprehensive benefits such as cover for major dental treatment,
additional preventative care services, alternative therapies, etc.

2.) Italy
Italy has the second highest average life expectancy in the EU, reaching 79.4 years for men
and 84.5 years for women (2011). Italy has a national health plan (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale), which
provides for hospital and medical benefits. In Italy, healthcare is considered a right and the national health
plan is designed to provide for all Italian citizens and residents, including U.S. and Canadian citizens who
are legal residents of Italy.

With the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale most care is free or low-cost, including consults with a general
physician, hospital visits, lab work, and medications. However, each region is responsible for managing its
own care, so expect differences between regions and carefully research the specific region you want to
retire in.

3.) Luxembourg
Nestled between Belgium, France, and Germany, the wealthy nation of
Luxembourg tops the Legatum Institute's health sub-index. The country's average life expectancy is 82. All
employees and self-employed workers in Luxembourg are required to make social security contributions,
which in turn entitles them to Luxembourg healthcare. The spouse and children of employers living in
Luxembourg are also entitled to healthcare.

EU, EEA and Swiss nationals who have reached retirement age in their home
country are entitled to free healthcare in Luxembourg as long as their pensions are in order to receive it. In
order to qualify, they must obtain a Form E121 from the previous EU country of residence. Acquiring this
form prior to departure is advisable and will help simplify the registration process.

EU residents staying in Luxembourg on a temporary basis can use their

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which entitles them to receive medical treatment at the same cost
as a Luxembourg national. This is a great temporary option for Luxembourg residents, or for expats living in
Luxembourg but often traveling around Europe throughout the year.

Non-EU/EEA nationals may have to provide proof of private health cover before
being granted a visa.Foreigners coming to live in Luxembourg without working must produce proof of health
insurance in order to obtain a residence permit. If you qualify for ‘non-resident’ tax status, you may not be
required to contribute to national social security, in which case you will probably be covered by your
employer’s health care plan.

EU nationals studying in Luxembourg will also be covered by their EHIC

throughout their period of study. Non-EU students, however, may be required to take out a private health
insurance plan prior to arrival, although their university can provide more detail. Students and unemployed
adults under 30 years may apply for continued health insurance at the University of Luxembourg website.

4.) India
For the last century, healthcare delivery and financing in India has been shrouded by life
insurance challenges and importantly, shares key landmarks with general insurance.
Currently, healthcare delivery and financing is marked by around 72% out-of-pocket
spending.India’s per capita spending on healthcare of $109 is much lower than the global average of
$863.3 India trails in health outcomes behind its South Asian neighbors like Sri Lanka and Bangladesh,
which have comparable per capita income.4 There is a wide gap in healthcare delivery for the insured
and for the total population.
Health insurance is dominated by government schemes. The major public health insurer in
India is the government-owned General Insurance Corporation (GIC) and its four subsidiaries with about
60% market share. However, Private Health Insurers (PHIs) expanded rapidly in tier-1 and tier-2 cities
post 2005 with products centered around ‘in-patient reimbursements’ and ‘cash-less payments’.

Submitted by

Ram Param
117CR0168