Orlando Harmon
Malaysia is a popular destination for expatriates, offering a high standard of living, excellent infrastructure, and a thriving job market. However, its healthcare system is quite different from those of other countries, and expats are not eligible for the same subsidised healthcare rates as Malaysian citizens. Therefore, it is crucial for foreigners living in Malaysia to have adequate international health insurance to ensure access to quality medical care without financial strain. This guide will explore the various options available for international health insurance in Malaysia, including the Foreign Worker Hospitalisation and Surgical Scheme, private health insurance plans, and the benefits and drawbacks of each.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Options for expats | Foreign Worker Hospitalization and Surgical Scheme, private health insurance plan, or pay for all medical expenses out of pocket |
| Cheapest plan | $40 monthly premium from AXA |
| Other plans under $50 | NOW Health International, A+ International, LUMA, and Tokio Marine |
| Comprehensive coverage and deductibles under $3,500 | Cigna and Bupa |
| Annual limit of Foreign Worker Hospitalization and Surgical Scheme | RM 20,000 |
| Room and board coverage | Up to RM 160 |
| ICU fees coverage | Up to 15 days |
| Medical inflation rate | 9% to 13% |
| Private hospital benefits | Shorter waiting times, quicker access to treatment, and better facilities |
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What You'll Learn
Foreign Worker Hospitalization and Surgical Scheme
In Malaysia, foreigners and expats do not qualify for the same healthcare benefits as citizens. Citizens have access to low-priced, highly subsidised healthcare services funded by income tax. Expats, on the other hand, must either pay for their medical care in full, purchase a private health insurance plan, or apply for the Foreign Worker Hospitalization and Surgical Scheme.
The Foreign Worker Hospitalization and Surgical Scheme is an insurance plan that employers can enrol their foreign employees in. This plan has an annual limit of up to RM 20,000, covering room and board up to RM 160, and ICU fees for up to 15 days. The annual premium per foreign worker is RM120 (before 6% service tax and stamp duty). It is important to note that this scheme only covers hospitalisation and surgical costs in non-corporatized Malaysia government hospitals.
Expats who opt for this scheme do not need to apply themselves. Their employer will register them and complete the necessary paperwork. This scheme is designed to reduce the financial burden on employers of foreign workers in the event of their hospitalisation due to accident or illness.
If you are an expat in Malaysia, it is important to carefully consider your healthcare options. While the Foreign Worker Hospitalization and Surgical Scheme can provide coverage, it may not be sufficient for all your healthcare needs.
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Private health insurance plans
When considering a private health insurance plan in Malaysia, it is essential to compare different options and providers. Plans can vary significantly in terms of coverage, cost, and benefits. Some popular insurers among foreigners include Cigna Global Medical, GeoBlue Xplorer, Bupa, AXA, A+ International, NOW Health International, Tokio Marine, and LUMA. These insurers offer plans with varying levels of comprehensiveness and deductibles to suit different needs and budgets.
International health insurance plans are another option for foreigners in Malaysia. These plans provide global coverage, ensuring access to quality medical care not only in Malaysia but also in other countries. This type of insurance is especially valuable for those who travel frequently. When choosing an international plan, it is important to consider factors such as benefit limits, deductibles, and co-pays, as these will affect your financial liability in different scenarios.
Expats in Malaysia should carefully consider their specific needs and requirements before selecting a private health insurance plan. Factors such as age, health status, and desired level of coverage will play a role in determining the most suitable option. Additionally, seeking expert advice from insurance brokers or consultants can be beneficial, as they can guide you towards the best plan for your individual circumstances.
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Comparing plans and providers
When comparing plans and providers for international medical insurance in Malaysia, it is important to understand the context of the Malaysian healthcare system. Malaysia does not have a universal healthcare system. Instead, it has a dual healthcare system, with both public and private sectors. While medical costs are subsidised, they are not free, and even at subsidised rates, health services may be unaffordable for poorer citizens.
Malaysian citizens benefit from very low-cost healthcare rates, but their income taxes fund these subsidies. Non-citizens do not have access to these subsidised rates, and foreigners cannot apply to the local government insurance scheme. Therefore, expats and foreigners in Malaysia typically require private insurance plans or use the foreign worker scheme.
There are several types of health insurance available in Malaysia, including surgical or hospitalization, critical illness insurance, and long-term care. The right plan for you will depend on your age, family history, budget, and health needs. Basic plans are suitable for those in good health, while more comprehensive coverage is recommended for maximum benefit and protection.
When comparing providers, some of the top international health insurance companies operating in Malaysia include Cigna, Bupa, AXA, A+ International, NOW Health International, Tokio Marine, and LUMA. These companies offer flexible plans with comprehensive benefits, including hospitalization, inpatient and outpatient care, dental care, maternity care, and emergency evacuation.
For example, AXA provides flexible plans tailored to expatriates, with high coverage limits and access to a global network of hospitals and healthcare providers. Now Health International also offers affordable plans starting at USD 29 per month for their SimpleCare plan, which covers significant medical events. Their other plans cover outpatient care, dental treatment, and maternity care.
When comparing plans, it is important to consider your specific needs and budget. Plans can vary in terms of coverage, premiums, and additional benefits. Some plans offer no lifetime or annual limits in exchange for a lower premium, while others reward you for staying healthy. It is also worth considering supplemental travel coverage if your plan does not include international coverage.
In addition to comparing plans and providers, it is recommended to seek expert advice. Experts can guide you through the Malaysian healthcare system and insurance market to find the best plan for your needs.
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Eligibility and enrolment
Eligibility for international medical insurance in Malaysia is contingent on one's status as a foreigner or expatriate. Malaysia's health insurance system is dual, with a government-funded public health sector and a thriving private sector. However, the public sector is not accessible to foreigners in the same way as locals, and they are not eligible for the same subsidised rates.
Foreigners in Malaysia have two main options for health insurance: the Foreign Worker Hospitalisation and Surgical Scheme or a private international health insurance plan.
The Foreign Worker Hospitalisation and Surgical Scheme, locally known as Skim Kemasukan Hospital dan Pembedahan Pekerja Asing or "SKHPPA", is a programme that requires employers to enrol their foreign employees and contribute to the costs. This scheme has an annual limit of up to RM 20,000, covering room and board up to RM 160, and ICU fees for up to 15 days.
Private international health insurance plans, on the other hand, are a popular choice among expatriates due to their extensive coverage, flexibility, and premium medical care options. These plans offer global coverage, comprehensive benefits, and often include additional services such as dental care, maternity care, and emergency evacuation.
To enrol in the Foreign Worker Hospitalisation and Surgical Scheme, one must be a foreign worker in Malaysia, and the enrolment is typically handled by the employer.
To enrol in a private international health insurance plan, one can compare plans and providers to find one that meets their specific needs and situation. International health insurance plans partner with local medical providers in Malaysia and worldwide, so it is essential to consider your travel plans and preferences for medical care. Some popular providers of international health insurance in Malaysia include AXA, NOW Health International, A+ International, LUMA, Tokio Marine, Cigna, Bupa, and William Russell.
It is worth noting that the costs of medical insurance in Malaysia are subject to medical inflation, which refers to the increasing average cost of treating illnesses due to improved medical procedures, equipment, and pharmaceuticals.
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Costs and benefits
Malaysia does not have a universal healthcare system. Instead, it has a government-funded public health sector and a thriving private sector. The government heavily subsidizes the cost of medical care through the public health sector, but these subsidized services are only available to Malaysian citizens. Citizens pay very low fees for their healthcare, which is funded by income taxes.
Foreigners in Malaysia do not qualify for the subsidized healthcare fees and must either purchase a private international health insurance plan or sign up for the Foreign Worker Hospitalization and Surgical Scheme. Without insurance, foreigners will have to pay for all medical expenses out of pocket at the full cost.
The cost of medical insurance premiums in Malaysia is subject to frequent revisions, with the average medical cost inflation being between 9% and 13% every year. This is due to the rising costs of medical treatment, hospital equipment, and pharmaceuticals, as well as an increase in medical inflation. The increase in medical tourism to Malaysia has also contributed to the rise in medical costs.
The cheapest international medical insurance plan for expats in Malaysia is offered by AXA, with a $40 monthly premium. Other plans under $50 are offered by NOW Health International, A+ International, LUMA, and Tokio Marine. Plans with comprehensive coverage and deductibles under $3,500 are offered by Cigna and Bupa. William Russell is another option that offers excellent benefits and high-quality service, with comprehensive cancer coverage and genome testing.
Private health insurance plans offer the benefit of short waiting times and access to higher-quality equipment and more English-speaking professionals. Some plans also offer worldwide coverage, increased limits, and medical evacuation emergency assistance. For those planning a family, some plans offer maternity benefits, covering up to RM3,000 for normal delivery and RM5,000 in the event of complications.
The Foreign Worker Hospitalization and Surgical Scheme is another option for foreigners in Malaysia, with an annual limit of up to RM 20,000, covering room and board up to RM 160, and ICU fees for up to 15 days. Employers are expected to enroll their foreign workers in this scheme and contribute to the costs.
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Frequently asked questions
Foreigners in Malaysia can either sign up for the Foreign Worker Hospitalization and Surgical Scheme or purchase a private health insurance plan.
The Foreign Worker Hospitalization and Surgical Insurance Scheme, or SKHPPA, requires foreign employees in Malaysia to have medical insurance. Employers are expected to enrol their foreign workers and make contributions on their behalf. This plan has an annual limit of up to RM 20,000, it covers room and board up to RM 160, and ICU fees for up to 15 days.
Private international health insurance plans are a preferred choice among expatriates in Malaysia due to their extensive coverage, flexibility, and premium medical care options. These plans offer global coverage, comprehensive benefits, and access to high-quality healthcare within Malaysia and across the world.
Before choosing a plan, it is important to compare health insurance plans, quotes, and providers. You can use an insurance broker to find the right plan for your needs. Some popular providers in Malaysia include AXA, NOW Health International, A+ International, LUMA, and Tokio Marine.
