Health Insurance in Indonesia
Summary: Making the move to Indonesia? One critical choice you'll face is between local health insurance and expat health insurance. Our article provides a comprehensive comparison of both, enriched with insights from expats in Indonesia on their personal insurance decisions.
Indonesia's health insurance system offers a range of options for residents, including expats and digital nomads. Understanding the available health insurance plans and providers is crucial for those moving to or living in Indonesia to ensure they have adequate coverage for medical needs.
Health Insurance Companies in Indonesia
Indonesia has several popular health insurance companies that cater to both locals and expatriates. These include state-owned PT Askes (now part of BPJS Kesehatan), private insurers such as Cigna, Allianz, and Manulife, among others. Expats are eligible to purchase health insurance from these companies, which offer a variety of plans with different levels of coverage. These insurers are known for providing comprehensive health insurance packages that can be tailored to individual needs, including inpatient, outpatient, dental, and maternity care.
Expat Health Insurance in Indonesia
Many expats living in Indonesia opt for specialized expat health insurance plans. These plans are designed to meet the specific needs of foreigners residing in the country, offering a broader range of services, including international coverage and medical evacuation. Expats may choose these plans for their flexibility, higher coverage limits, and the ability to access a wider network of hospitals and clinics, both in Indonesia and abroad.
Local Health Insurance vs. Expat Health Insurance
While some expats and digital nomads use local Indonesian health insurance companies, others prefer specialized expat health insurance providers. The choice often depends on factors such as the length of stay, the level of coverage desired, and whether the individual plans to travel frequently. Local insurance plans may be more cost-effective for short-term stays or for those with limited healthcare needs, while expat health insurance can provide more comprehensive coverage and greater peace of mind for those living in Indonesia long-term.
Considerations for Health Insurance Overseas
When deciding on health insurance while living overseas, it's important to consider several factors. These include the extent of coverage, whether the insurer has direct billing arrangements with hospitals or if you'll need to pay upfront and seek reimbursement, the size of the hospital network, coverage for medical evacuation, and whether the plan includes repatriation benefits. Additionally, understanding the claims process, waiting periods for certain benefits, and the insurer's customer service reputation are crucial in ensuring that you have the support you need when you need it.
Expats talk about Health Insurance in Indonesia
"My kids and I all had dengue fever at the same time and were taken very well care of at BIMC, Nusa Dua. I am so pleased we had health insurance because the hospital bill would have cost us a hefty US $2100," commented one expat living in Bali, Indonesia.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Indonesia Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Indonesia
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Indonesia
- Best Places to Live in Indonesia
- Real Estate in Indonesia
- Guide to Real Estate in Indonesia
- Pros & Cons of Living in Indonesia
- Cost of Living in Indonesia
- Chikungunya Disease in Indonesia
- Zika Virus in Indonesia
- How to Rent a Home in Indonesia
- Enrolling in the Public Healthcare System in Indonesia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Indonesia 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Indonesia