Engage Health Group

Tag: international health insurance

  • How to provide Medical Evacuation Insurance to employees

    How to provide Medical Evacuation Insurance to employees

    There’s never a good time to experience a serious illness or injury, but there are some parts of the world where it would be particularly concerning.

    While cutting edge innovations like robot-assisted surgery and AI-assisted diagnostics are starting to be seen in the UK and elsewhere around the world; some countries struggle to offer even the most basic medical support.

    Medical Evacuation Insurance is designed to help your employees working or travelling abroad get the medical care they need when local hospitals can’t provide it. They are typically purchased as part of an International Group Health Insurance plan.

    In this article, we explain how Medical Evacuation plans work and the kind of features you can expect to see included.

    Engage Health Group can help you find International Health Insurance policy for your business and advise on the medical evacuation services they include. Arrange a free consultation and no-obligation quotation by contacting enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419.

     

    How does Medical Evacuation Insurance work?

    Medical Evacuation Insurance comes into effect when local hospitals are ill-equipped to handle an employee’s urgent needs. The policy provides logistical and financial support to transport the affected person to a facility capable of delivering the required treatment.

    In some cases, it also covers repatriation, bringing the affected person back home for further treatment.

    Arranging emergency transport, especially across borders, would ordinarily be extremely expensive. Medical Evacuation Insurance covers these costs, making sure employees get the care they need without the financial burden falling on them or their employer.

    Under a medical evacuation plan, the insurer will:

    • Assess local healthcare options
    • Provide language translation services to ensure patients and their families understand the process
    • Organise transport via ambulance, commercial flight, or air ambulance.
    • Provide support and medical supervision during travel.
    • Bring the employee home if necessary through its repatriation benefit.

    The cost of an air ambulance can be incredibly expensive. For example, AXA has previously arranged a short evacuation from Nice to Paris for a staggering €12,000! The company has also paid €228,000 for a long-distance transfer from North America to Asia.

    Without insurance, the financial responsibility falls on either the employee or the employer, which could be unaffordable for both.

     

    Why invest in a medical evacuation policy?

    There are many reasons why you might buy Medical Evacuation Insurance for your employees:

    • Peace of mind: Nobody will want to work in a location that lacks access to reliable medical support. Having Medical Evacuation Insurance reassures staff they have the necessary support and won’t be left stranded in an emergency.
    • Avoid huge medical bills: Medical evacuations aren’t cheap. As we saw in our example with AXA, medical evacuations can be incredibly expensive. A short medical transfer across Europe costs thousands of euros and can run into hundreds of thousands on long-haul evacuations. Without insurance, these costs could be financially crippling.
    • Receive 24/7 phone support: This is for both the affected person and their family which, in turn, alleviates the stress that would otherwise fall on HR or a company director.
    • High-risk locations and remote areas: Medical evacuation insurance is very important for employees working in areas with limited medical facilities. It ensures they can access proper treatment, prevent complications, and even save lives.

    Are you seeking improved ways to protect your global employees? Contact our award-winning international team via enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419. We promise impartial expert advice given in your best interests. 

     

    How can businesses find the right policy?

    Many international health insurance plans include medical evacuation and repatriation coverage. Examples of providers include: AXA Global Healthcare, Bupa Global and Cigna Global.

    It’s worth liaising with an international consultancy, like Engage Health Group, to ensure you’re on the most suitable and cost-effective plan. We’ve previously collaborated with employers and insurance companies to develop a medical evacuation strategy for staff working in high-risk locations like Lebanon and rural areas like Ghana.

    We collectively scrutinise potential situations and other obstacles that may arise in a medical emergency abroad. The solution is then developed, so emergencies are acted upon immediately should they occur.

    Once the medical evacuation insurance is in place, you and your employees can be assured that emergency evacuations are covered across multiple time zones and regions. This will prepare your business and its employees for all types of medical emergency.

     

    Seeking impartial advice

    Medical Evacuation Insurance is a safety net for companies with employees who travel or work internationally. The policy ensures employees can get proper medical care, saves businesses from huge unexpected financial costs, and makes handling emergencies less stressful.

    As you can see, there are different providers offering medical evacuation services, but it’s worth seeking impartial advice from our team as we can compare plans and advise on what insurer offers the best support in specific territories.

    Arrange a free obligation-free consultation by contacting our international experts on  enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419.

  • Global employee benefits fragmenting? Here’s the fix…

    Global employee benefits fragmenting? Here’s the fix…

    The problem of disjointed international benefits is laid bare in the recently published Global State of Benefits Report 2025 by Ben.

    The report reveals that many companies still use a fragmented approach, allowing local offices to handle benefits independently. This results in unnecessary duplication of work, inefficiencies, and missed opportunities to save money.

    If your company is operating in this way, then now is the time to evaluate how your global benefits are managed. Here’s how you can simplify the process and get better results.

    Need expert help in pulling together international health and protection policies? Set up a free consultation with one of our global specialists by contacting enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419.

     

     

    The challenge of managing global benefits

    Ben’s report highlights the challenges of managing benefits on a global scale. About 70% of companies don’t have a unified strategy, and 23% let their regional offices take full control. This disjointed setup often leads to:

    • Lack of communication between headquarters and local teams
    • Overworked HR staff managing unnecessary procedures
    • Missed opportunities to negotiate better terms or keep expenses low

    At the same time, the cost of essential benefits like health and life insurance keeps climbing. Spending on medical care increased by an incredible 115% in 2024, making it difficult for many companies to keep track of their budgets.

     

     

    How to fix your global benefits plan

    Do you find it difficult managing your benefits plan? The solutions below can help make things that little bit simpler, while giving you a clearer view of costs.

    Consolidate policies

    A smart way to reduce inefficiencies is to consolidate your benefits policies. Instead of managing separate plans in every country, consider covering employees across multiple countries under a single international policy. This type of plan provides consistent coverage globally while meeting local requirements.

    For example, if you have employee health insurance arrange country-by-country, you could pull them together under a single International Health Insurance plan.

    It’s important to note that a one-size-fits-all policy isn’t always the answer, as it can be more expensive. Our consultants can give you can impartial verdict and even pull together a complimentary quotation to see if it would be worthwhile in your case.

    Include a variety of policies

    When updating your benefits strategy, consider including key policies that support and protect employees everywhere. Examples include:

    You’ll be aware that health and wellbeing is a holistic pursuit. Therefore, it’s important that the key areas of wellbeing are covered in your benefits: physical, mental and financial wellbeing.

    Improve communication and oversight

    Technology has an important role to play here. HR systems and employee benefits platforms should be able to work seamlessly across borders. This dramatically improves your ability to track costs, review employee experiences and communicate seamlessly. If this isn’t yet the case, the sooner you’re able to fix the problem the better – otherwise the problem will be ever more convoluted as the company grows.

     

     

    How an expert broker can help

    Managing global benefits can be difficult, but working with an expert broker like Engage Health Group can make it easier. Here’s how brokers can help:

    • Industry insights: Brokers provide you with tools and access to market data that helps keep your benefits competitive.
    • Regulatory knowledge: They guide you through local laws and compliance requirements.
    • Cost savings: Brokers with strong connections can get better rates and customised solutions.
    • Simplified processes: Brokers streamline benefits, saving you time and reducing mistakes.

     

     

    Taking the next step

    The Global State of Benefits Report 2025 shows that many companies need to rethink how they provide employee benefits to global teams. With the right strategies in place, you can simplify the process, save costs, and provide better support for your employees across the globe.

    Ready to take the next step? Engage Health Group can create a benefits program that truly works for your business and your people.

    Contacting enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or 01273 974419 to arrange a no-obligation consultation.

  • 7 company health insurance trends to watch in 2025

    7 company health insurance trends to watch in 2025

    The private medical insurance (PMI) market continues to grow, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down. With more people turning to private healthcare for quicker access to treatment and tailored options, insurers are stepping up to meet growing demand.

    But what could the future hold?

    Based on current industry discussions, here are seven exciting trends we might see evolve in 2025.

    Want to stay ahead of the curve with your own employee benefits offering? Contact Engage Health Group’s award-winning consultants on 01273 974419 or enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk for FREE advice and policy analysis.

     

     

    1.    Innovations in preventative services

    Prevention is better than cure, and insurers have been working hard to deliver more preventative services within their policies. By focusing on preventative care, they aim to help people avoid serious health issues and reduce long-term claims.

    • Experts have recently highlighted the need for a stronger focus on cancer prevention in the UK, so look out for more comprehensive screening programs.
    • The UK government recently secured a tech deal to improve early cancer detection
    • Wellness incentives, like gym discounts or wearable health trackers, are continuing to evolve with new features and functionality that put ease-of-use at its core.

    This shift isn’t just about saving money. It’s about encouraging healthier habits and catching problems early.

    As claims spiral, we can expect to see insurers continue to innovate in this area.

     

    2.    Support for neurodiversity

    As awareness of neurodiversity grows, so does the demand for services to support people with conditions like ADHD and autism. Insurers are starting to recognise this and may expand their policies to meet the need.

    • Benefits could include more diagnostic assessments, therapy, and even workplace support for neurodiverse employees.
    • Employers may see more tools and resources aimed at creating inclusive work environments.

    Zurich UK’s decision to offer neurodiversity assessments for staff shows how this trend has been gaining traction. Meanwhile, Aviva offers a Neurodevelopment Pathway on its corporate plans.

    So far, efforts have focused on diagnosis. Could 2025 be the year we see specialist advice and support for neurodivergent people post-diagnosis?

    Further reading: The real truth about neurodiversity in the workplace.

     

    3.    More self-help options

    Insurers are ramping up their digital tools for a generation that prefers to manage everything online. Self-service platforms and apps are becoming the norm, giving policyholders more control over their healthcare.

    • Expect to see apps where you can book GP appointments, track claims, or access mental health support.
    • Self-help tools like symptom checkers and guided therapy sessions might also be on offer.

    By catering to Gen Z and future generations, digitising healthcare and providing direct access to what they need can empower people to manage their health more efficiently.

     

    4.    Gender-specific health services

    Healthcare isn’t one-size-fits-all, and insurers are tailoring their offerings to meet gender-specific needs.

    • Women’s health services could include maternity support, menopause care, and dedicated GP options.
    • Men’s health services could cover prostate health, heart care, fertility issues and mental health.

    Examples of this trend include:

    • Simplyhealth’s women’s free health GP option: Provided by HealthHero, these women-focused GP services are now accessible to all customers with the insurer’s health plans and can be used 24/7 via the app or customer portal. This benefit provides quicker care and allows patients to access GPs specializing in women’s health.
    • Aviva’s updates to pregnancy-related cover: Aviva has added six pregnancy complications and more child-specific illnesses to its critical illness cover. Experts hope other insurers will follow, as these changes could significantly help families during tough times.
    • Juniper, a reproductive healthcare insurance provider, recently secured £1.5m in pre-seed funding.

    Prediction: We can expect to see more gender-specific innovations in 2025.

    Would your business benefit from FREE admin support on your health insurance policy? Contact our expert advisors for a no-obligation consultation. Email us on enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or call 01273 974419.

     

    5.    Innovations in AI

    Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming everything, and that includes health insurance. Insurers are beginning to use AI to make services faster, smarter, and more personalised.

    • Claims processing could become quicker and smoother, cutting down on frustrating delays.
    • AI might also help identify at-risk individuals, offering tailored advice to prevent health issues before they escalate.
    • Chatbots will be increasingly able to handle policy queries

    Companies like Everest are already using AI to enhance their offerings. For example, the company uses cutting-edge technology in Singapore to match patients and their medical needs with relevant healthcare providers. This saves time and cuts costs for both employers and employees.

    AI can be controversial too, especially if used to process claims without human oversight. Either way, for good and bad you can expect to see more AI innovations around health insurance policies in 2025.

     

    6.    Mental health support

    Expect to see continued attention on mental health support as increasing numbers of people seek out support.

    “I was shocked to learn during a meet with one insurer that their highest claims included in-patient mental health,” said Jo Bills, International Client Support Manager at Engage Health Group.

    “Historically it’s always been cardio and cancer, but in-patient mental health is definitely a bit of a shift. We’ve always known that out-patient mental health support has been popular but the fact that this has now crossed over into in-patient care really surprised me.”

    It’s an issue that predominantly seems to be affecting younger people. The demand for in-patient facilities may reflect a lack of support provided at an earlier stage.

    Preventative solutions will surely be a continued area of attention. Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) will be in high demand and you can expect to see continued innovations in wellness apps.

     

    7.    Global healthcare support

    More companies of all sizes are hiring abroad. This poses a challenge for companies seeking to provide health cover to all their employees wherever they are in the world.

    Corporate companies have long faced this challenge, but more SMEs are employing abroad whether via remote workers or through opening new offices abroad.

    So, one thing we can expect to see are more policies covering multiple countries under a single scheme.

    We might expect to see more policy innovations designed for SMEs with globally dispersed workers  in 2025. Who knows, maybe Engage Health Group will be at the forefront once more?

     

    What does this mean for businesses?

    Insurance providers are always searching out new ways to create value for their clients. Many innovations are first rolled out to corporate customers before gradually being made available to smaller businesses.

    It can be very difficult to keep up with all the latest product offerings in the employee benefits space, but Engage Health Group is here to give one-to-one advice and assistance.

    As an employee benefits consultancy, Engage Health Group stays abreast of all insurer offerings and price points to ensure you get the best advice available.

    We will also benchmark your offerings against similar companies, to ensure that you’re offering remains competitive

    If you’d like a complimentary quote tailored to your business or analysis of any current schemes you have in place, contact us on 01273 974419 or enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk

  • Engage wins Best International Group Advice Firm 2024!

    Engage wins Best International Group Advice Firm 2024!

    Engage Health Group won Best International Group Advice Firm at the Health & Protection Awards 2024.

    The prestigious event celebrates the very best work from advisers and insurers in the employee benefits industry.

    It’s the second consecutive year we’ve won the award, and is testament to the hard work and expertise of our international team, led by Ian Abbott and Penny Pemberton.

    In this blog post, we explore the award win in more detail and outline how we help UK companies with global reach look after their employees through their health and protection policies.

     

    Why the Health & Protection Awards matter

    photo of penny pemberton receiving the award for Best International Group Advice Firm from comedian Kevin Bridges

    More than 700 advisers, insurers and other representatives attended the Health & Protection Awards ceremony at London Hilton Park Lane to celebrate high achievement within the industry.

    Penny Pemberton, Head of International Benefits, received the Best International Group Advice Firm from comedian Kevin Bridges on behalf of our international team.

    “I’m thrilled and proud that the team has been recognised for all their hard work. It’s great recognition for our amazing team.

    “Engage International has built a team of expert consultants with a vast array of experience in the world of international benefits. We genuinely care about our clients and enjoy working to find the best solutions to fit their benefit needs around the world.”

    Do you need international expertise for your business? Email enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or call 01273 974419 to arrange a meeting with one of our experts.

     

    How we achieved £250k savings for a global client

    Engage Health Group won this award due to the way we are able to leverage our expertise in the international employee benefits market and streamline our clients’ international benefits programmes.

    Ultimately, the goal is always to improve efficiency, reduce costs and improve employee support. Achieving this across different countries can be very challenging and many HR teams struggle to achieve global oversight on their benefits and achieve consistency in different territories.

    One client we worked with had rapidly grown to 40 separate entities operating across 19 countries. Each entity had separate benefits policies in each country with different insurers, leading to a splintered patchwork of policies to manage.

    The client’s policies included: International and domestic Private Medical Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance and a variety of Employee Assistance Programmes.

    Engage Health Group worked with the client to benchmark current benefits against best practice in each country and identify gaps. Where there were multiple benefit plans in one country, we looked to harmonise benefits with one insurer. Where possible, we brought benefits together under a single global plan while ensuring compliance with local regulations and leveraging economies of scale, which resulted in substantial savings.

    We achieved more than £250K in global savings for the client, with a 25% reduction in their International Medical Insurance premiums alone.

    Our work went beyond traditional consultancy by integrating directly with the client’s platforms, running webinars to educate employees, and acting as a concierge service for all member queries.

    The end result is that the client’s international employee benefits are more cost-efficient, easier to manage, and better aligned with their business growth strategy.

     

    Do you need help with your employee benefits policies?

    Engage Health Group provides free advice and policy reviews across a range of employee benefits both within the UK and around the world.

    If you’re seeking expert advice and support on your health and protection schemes, then please do get in touch for a no-obligation consultation.

    Email enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or call 01273 974419.

  • Employee benefits worldwide: 7 common challenges & how to solve them

    Employee benefits worldwide: 7 common challenges & how to solve them

    The makeup and location of your workforce will be unique to your business. But whatever the number and wherever they are based, you will need to comply with the regulations of each country and meet differing cultural expectations.

    Every country has its quirks. And the more countries covered, the more complex the situation becomes.

    Let’s take a look at some of these challenges in more detail…

    Need help providing the right support to your international workforce? Get FREE expert advice from our consultants on 01273 974419 or email enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.

     

     

    Challenge #1:

    Understanding rules and regulations in multiple countries

    Often employee benefits are managed by small HR teams located in a central location. If you’re a UK-headquartered business, then this is where your HR team is likely to be based.

    Not only must you arrange health and protection schemes in the UK, you have to do the same in other countries too. Even the most well-resourced personnel department will find this a struggle.

    A number of question arise:

    • Should I provide health insurance, life insurance or other policies in this country?
    • Are there different legal requirements?
    • Are there different employee expectations?
    • What do similar companies provide for their workers in the same location?
    • How do I attract the best people?

    Recommended solution:

    It’s a good idea to contact an employee benefits broker who operates in the relevant country. They can advise you on the best course of action and ensure you are legally compliant in regard to employee benefits.

    Engage Health Group has a broker network covering more than 70 countries, so we are able to advise on the best way to arrange health and protection coverage for your workers.

     

     

    Challenge #2:

    Managing and clarifying costs

    We often work with companies who struggle to gain visibility on their benefits spend around the world. It’s easy to understand why: companies often have separate policies for different countries, premiums change year-on-year and insurance claims vary.

    There are also digital platforms and various wellness solutions to manage too. So, pulling it all together and getting a clear sight of costs is often difficult.

    Recommended solution:

    Businesses can arrange “umbrella” policies that cover multiple countries under one plan. For example, International Private Medical Insurance can provide health coverage to employees in different countries. These types of policy make it easier to track costs, and the more countries you need to cover, the more advantageous it becomes.

     

     

    Challenge #3:

    Affordability for smaller employee numbers

    Even the largest companies find it difficult to achieve economies of scale through their global benefits but they often have larger and more dispersed budgets to make it more affordable.

    However, SMEs with smaller budgets will struggle to find suitable, cost-effective options to cover their global workforce or achieve return on investment. With fewer employee numbers in each country, it is very difficult to obtain competitive benefits.

    Recommended solution:

    It’s worth partnering with an employee benefits consultancy who can design solutions specifically for the needs of your workforce. Many brokers focus on serving large corporates, but Engage Health Group offers bespoke offering for different-sized companies. And our advice comes at no extra cost.

     

     

    Challenge #4:

    Minding the gaps in legal compliance and duty of care

    It’s hardly surprising that overstretched HR teams might miss something when administering global benefits. Whether you have HR departments in different countries, or one centralised team, guaranteeing compliance is difficult.

    Insurance solutions vary widely in each country and in many countries there are now mandatory obligations. It’s a complex web of rules and regulations out there, but there are a couple of options to do so safely.

    Recommended solution:

    Many companies outsource to employee benefits consultants, like Engage, with global expertise. Alternatively, they employ EORs who, in turn, may employ expert consultants and brokers with specific, or multi-country, expertise.

    It’s not just a technical legal exercise, it’s also about ensuring employees are equally well looked after in whichever country they are working from.

     

     

    Challenge #5:

    Deploying domestic vs international solutions

    Many businesses are unaware that they have two options when investing in health and protection policies:

    Option 1: Invest in separate policies for each country

    Option 2: Invest in a single umbrella scheme, which covers multiple countries at the same time

    For example, many companies set up Group Health Insurance schemes in separate countries. That means you have to manage multiple health insurance policies with different policy providers and separate providers to contact.

    Suggested solution:

    As you can imagine, the admin and costs can spiral. The simpler and often more cost-effective alternative is to invest in an International Group Health Insurance policy which covers all employees around the world under the same policy*. Many companies are unaware this option even exists!

    * In some countries, local laws dictate that employees must be covered under a locally compliant policy. Engage Health Group can help with sourcing both international and local solutions.

     

     

    Challenge #6:

    Encountering generic solutions for unique business needs

    Too often businesses are served with generic solutions which can inflate costs or minimise the chances of getting value for money. Each business has its unique make-up of employee size, country distribution, budget constraints and industry type. While the largest businesses can usually find tailored solutions, for smaller operations (less than 50 employees) it can be difficult to find suitable local policies.

    Suggested solution:

    Any broker or consultant you work with should serve the precise needs of your business and be a genuine whole-of-market broker.

     

     

    Challenge #7:

    Sourcing impartial advice

    Many HR professionals have fallen victim to the persuasive sales pitch of an insurance advisor. They will always have the perfect policy for you.

    But how can you be sure without comparing and contrasting against other providers? And do you know what lurks in the small print?

    This point relates to Group Health Insurance, Income Protection, Life Insurance, Critical Illness Cover, and any other health and protection policy you’re seeking to invest in.

    Suggested solution:

    Ideally, you need to consult with an expert who has in-depth knowledge of all the different providers and how their different offerings shape up. Plus, importantly, they must be able to magnify the most important details in the Ts and Cs. And they should do this on your behalf rather than act as a sneaky sales funnel on behalf of a preferred provider!

     

     

    Finding a broker that’s right for you

    As you can see, the key piece of advice here is to find expertise you can trust. This will make the process of jumping through all the legislative hoops all the more easier and help you fulfil your duty of care more effectively.

    At Engage Health Group, we have a wide global broker network spanning more than 70 countries, enabling us to provide the best guidance no matter where your employees are based. We offer genuine expertise alongside the most competitive quotes in the market.

    Contact us at enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or call 01273 974419 for FREE no-obligation advice and support. 

  • Navigating health insurance in Malta: a guide for employers

    Navigating health insurance in Malta: a guide for employers

    Malta’s sunny climate and rich history make it extremely appealing for business and travel. The island is also home to a highly-skilled, multi-lingual, and cost-effective workforce – making it an attractive proposition for overseas expansion.

    The country is a particularly popular location for companies in industries such as tourism, financial services, manufacturing and gambling.

    Any employer launching in the area will need to consider whether to offer health insurance to staff and, if so, how to go about it.

    This guide breaks down how the Malta healthcare system works, including some of the private healthcare options available to companies.

    We also look at typical employer practice in the area, courtesy of the latest Axco reports (data accurate as of May 2024).

    The article will be of particular interest to companies wishing to:

    • Cover remote workers based in Malta
    • Establish new offices and workspaces in Malta
    • Provide cover for expats assigned to Malta

    Need help supporting your global workforce in Malta or other international locations? Contact our award-winning health and protection brokers on 01273 974419 or email enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.

     

     

    How does the Malta health system work?

    Malta
    Malta

    Malta was known as the ‘Nurse of the Mediterranean’ back in 1916 due to its role in providing medical care to wounded soldiers during World War I. Today, its healthcare system is generally well regarded although, like many countries, it has issues with personnel shortages and increasing demand from an ageing population.

    The public health system is overseen by the Ministry of Health, the Elderly and Community Care. It is funded through social insurance and social security contributions.

    If you’re a legal resident of Malta and make social insurance and social security contributions, you are entitled to use the country’s public healthcare system.

    Services include:

    • GP access
    • Medical tests and diagnostics
    • Preventative treatments
    • ‘Curative’ surgeries and treatments
    • Rehabilitation services
    • Doctors’ visits
    • Outpatient care
    • Emergency care

    Primary healthcare also includes:

    • Immunisations
    • Dental care
    • Antenatal and postnatal care
    • Diabetes treatment
    • Specialist paediatric care.

    Some services such as dental and optical treatment are means-tested.

    Prescription drugs are free of charge for those suffering from prescribed chronic conditions and for those on low incomes.

    Alongside Malta’s public system, there is also the option of private healthcare.

    ** The Mater Dei is the main public hospital in Malta, located in Msida. A speciality and training facility, expats can also use this public hospital but pay out of pocket depending on private health insurance policies.

     

     

    Should employers provide health insurance to their workers?

    There are two aspects to this: what is required legally and what is advisable in order to compete for talent in the region.

    Legal requirements:

    As an employer you pay social insurance and social security contributions, and so will your employees through the tax system. This means your employees will qualify for free health insurance regardless of their nationality

    Best practice:

    Nonetheless, it’s common for employers in Malta to provide private health insurance plans to their employees, according to data from Axco.

    Below we have listed reasons businesses might invest in health insurance for staff in Malta.

    • Competition for talent: Companies have to compete for skilled talent from a relatively small population size. Indeed, Malta ranked 21st in The Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023.
    • High expat population: Around 1 in 5 of all residents in Malta are expats, so providing a fully-equipped health insurance policy ensures all staff are covered, no matter where they are from.
    • Fast access to health services: Giving employees peace of mind they have access to the highest standard of healthcare when in a new location.
    • Provide cross-border cover: If cover is set up as an international plan, employers can support staff across multiple countries.
    • Fill in any health gaps: Even though Malta’s healthcare is generally well regarded, there are inevitably stresses on the system from time to time, which a private health plan can navigate.
    • Added extras: Many Group Health Insurance plans will include mental health support tools, virtual GP and Employee Assistance Programmes. Via an international health plan, you can also get medical repatriation services if required and a wide range of other services.

    Are you seeking out a health insurance policy for your Malta-based team? Engage Health Group is here to answer all your questions and give you the most expert advice and tailored quotes. Call 01273 974419 or email enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk for a free no-obligation consultation.

     

     

    What is typical employer practice?

    The following information is drawn from Axco’s Employee Benefits Report which tracks typical employer practice in Malta.

    Firstly, it is common for employers to provide supplementary medical benefits through a Group Health Insurance plan. In fact, a Group Health Insurance policy is often required under collective labour agreements.

    Group Health Insurance plans will typically include the basics for most employees, including core services such as outpatient services and minor operations. But high-paid employees are likely to expect more features and have policies tailored to their needs.

    Dental and optical coverage is usually provided under a separate plan and restricted to senior managers and directors.

    Employees may be given the option of upgrading coverage at their own expense.

    Employers usually finance 100% of the Group Health Insurance premium. This means the employee is rarely expected to contribute.

     

     

    How should you invest in a health policy for Malta?

    As with any global location for businesses, employers in Malta can invest in a single-country domestic health insurance scheme or a broader International Group Health Insurance plan.

    Option 1: Invest in a one-country health insurance scheme

    If a company only has staff working in Malta, then it makes sense to invest in a single health insurance policy covering Malta only.

    Option 2: Invest in a global health insurance plan

    International Business Health Insurance is a private medical insurance policy designed to cover a globally diverse workforce under a single policy. It gives staff access to top healthcare facilities in multiple countries, as well as therapy services for physical and mental health.

    An International Group Health plan also helps businesses avoid the complexities of navigating different local healthcare systems – a big plus for HR teams

    International schemes provide very comprehensive care and features, much more so than one-country domestic plans. Features can include medical repatriation, extra maternity support, 24/7 multi-lingual helplines, even support with chronic conditions – as always inclusions and exclusions vary depending on the policy.

     

     

    Who provides Group Health Insurance policies covering Malta?

    The main health insurance providers for Malta are Cigna, Allianz, Bupa, AXA, and Now Health.

    As always, there are domestic and local insurers to also explore based in Malta for more localised care and support.

    The international health insurance market is complex. Navigating your options alongside all the local legislation technicalities takes time, work, and patience. Turning to expert consultants, like our international brokers at Engage Health Group, can guide you through and explain all available options. The goal is to land on the perfect solution fits the unique requirements of your business and its staff.

     

     

    Enlist the help of an International Health Insurance broker

    Engage Health Group’s international team of brokers can help! Our award-winning team has a wide global broker network spanning more than 70 countries, enabling us to provide the best guidance for businesses no matter the location. We will talk you through all the complexities, perform full market reviews and deliver quotes designed around the specific needs of your business.

    Contact us at enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or call 01273 974419 for FREE no-obligation reviews, price comparisons and advice tailored for your unique business.

    Further reading: Exploring the health insurance market in Gibraltar: a guide for employers – Engage Health Group

  • Exploring the health insurance market in Gibraltar: a guide for employers

    Exploring the health insurance market in Gibraltar: a guide for employers

    A headland on Spain’s south coast, Gibraltar has been a British Overseas Territory since 1713 with an estimated population of 33,000 Gibraltarians.

    If you’re an employer expanding into ‘The Rock’ then you’ll want to know about the healthcare system and the different options available when it comes to health insurance coverage.

    This article is designed for companies exploring their options for providing health insurance in the country, including those seeking to:

    • Cover remote local workers in Gibraltar
    • Launch new offices in the country
    • Cover expats on assignment

    Need help supporting your global workforce in Gibraltar or beyond? Contact our award-winning health and protection brokers on 01273 974419 or enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.

     

     

    How does the Gibraltar health system work?

    Healthcare in Gibraltar upholds similar standards of health as most western European countries. And like most of those countries, Gibraltarians have two main healthcare options to pick from:

    • Free public healthcare courtesy of the Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA)
    • Private medical insurance policies

    The GHA works as a similar model to the NHS, delivering primary, secondary and mental health care with low-cost or free access to general practitioners, specialists, and emergency care. The majority of Gibraltar’s healthcare staff are fluent in both English and Spanish, making their services highly accessible.

    However, access to GHA’s services depends on a person’s official status, employment, and social security contributions.

     

    Two ways of accessing GHA healthcare:

    #1 Registering with the GHA
    • Gibraltar is a British territory so anyone with a valid UK passport is eligible for free medical care
    • Register using a fully eligible passport at the local Primary Care Centre
    #2 European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
    • EU Citizens can access the GHA’s free healthcare too, but accessibility differs from nationality to nationality
    • An EHIC card allows for any necessary state-provided medical treatment
    • The EHIC and Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) does not cover medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment, or non-urgent care
    • EHIC cover is not an alternative to travel insurance or private health insurance!

    Note: for some emergency treatments it is possible you might be transferred to Spain.

     

     

    Why provide employee health insurance in Gibraltar?

    Gibraltar’s public health system is generally well regarded. Eight in 10 adults rate the Primary and Secondary care they receive as being “very good”, according to a public health survey.

    Nonetheless, having access to a wider range of services with shorter waiting times is still appealing. Below we have listed a handful of reasons why businesses might want to invest in health insurance for staff in Gibraltar.

    • Win the battle for talent: Competition for talent in Gibraltar is high (particularly in the growing gambling industry), so offering a strong healthcare plan will boost your attractiveness to potential candidates.
    • Fulfil employer duty of care: Fill in any gaps in Gibraltar’s healthcare system and ensure that employee’s health needs are fully looked after.
    • Provide choice to your staff: Over which hospitals they wish to receive treatment in.
    • Offer cross-border coverage for all: If coverage is provided as part of an international plan, you can support staff in multiple countries under one plan.
    • Provide staff with immediate cover: Without the need for additional delays and paperwork.
    • Support Gibraltarian staff travelling to Spain: From 1 July 2022, Gibraltarians travelling to Spain could no longer get free emergency healthcare, therefore a Group Health Insurance policy (or travel insurance policy with health coverage included) that covers Spain would be highly appreciated by staff.

    Employers looking to provide comprehensive health cover for their Gibraltarian employees can opt for either a Gibraltar-specific domestic policy, or via an International Health Insurance plan covering staff in multiple countries in one policy.

    Let’s look at your options…

     

     

    How should you invest in a health policy for Gibraltar?

    As with any global location, businesses in Gibraltar can invest in a single-country domestic health insurance scheme or a broader International Group Health Insurance policy.

     

    Option 1: Invest in a local policy

    If a company only has staff working in Gibraltar, then it makes sense to invest in a single health insurance policy covering Gibraltar only. But if you wish to cover employees across more than one country then you have a choice between maintaining separate policies or investing in a single international policy…

     

    Option 2: Invest in a global plan

    International Business Health Insurance is a private medical insurance policy designed to cover a global workforce under a single policy. It gives staff access to top healthcare facilities in multiple countries.

    An International Group Health plan also helps businesses avoid the complexity of navigating different local healthcare systems, which is a big plus for HR teams.

    The other important feature of international schemes is that they provide superior features compared to a one-country scheme. Features like medical repatriation, extra maternity support, 24-7 multi-lingual helplines, and assistance with chronic conditions can be included (as always inclusions and exclusions will vary depending on the policy).

    What the right options for your business? Put all your questions to the international experts at Engage Health Group for FREE. Call 01273 974419 or email enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk.

     

     

    Who provides Group Health Insurance policies covering Gibraltar?

    The main insurers in the region are, AXA, Bupa, Now Health International and IMG (ALC Health). While other international health insurers can provide coverage in the region, only the aforementioned insurers have agreements with the local clinics on a direct billing basis, which helps make the process a lot smoother for all involved – patient and business alike.

    Navigating the international options as well as the local legislations can take time to work through.  But expert consultants, like those at Engage Health Group, can guide you through it and explain your options free of charge.

     

     

    Enlist an International Health Insurance broker for free

    The International Health Insurance market is complex and filled with many insurers offering different plans as they rally for the attention of businesses. Health insurance is a considerable investment, so it’s important to locate a policy that perfect fulfils the needs of your employees.

    Engage Health Group’s international team can help. Our award-winning advisors can talk you through all the complexities, perform full market reviews and deliver quotes designed around the specific needs of your business.

    Turning to an experienced international broker ensures you are investing in the best cover whilst lightening the load on your busy HR team.

    Contact us at enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or call 01273 974419 for FREE no-obligation reviews, price comparisons and advice tailored to your business.

  • Here’s how an International Health Insurance broker can help…

    Here’s how an International Health Insurance broker can help…

    A good International Health Insurance broker provides impartial advice to any individual or business looking to offer health coverage to its global employees. 

    Brokers can be the make or break factor in the success or otherwise of a global health plan.

    However, all brokers have their own ways of operating – some offering their services for free, others charging, and all with varying levels of expertise across different countries.

    In this blog post you will learn:

    • The role of an International Health Insurance broker
    • How the business model works
    • The benefits of employing an expert broker
    • Real-life examples of how a broker can help

    Need help creating the perfect blend of international employee benefits and health insurance for your global staff? Contact our expert international insurance brokers on 01273 974419 or click on the chat box on the right. 

     

     

    What does a Global Health Insurance broker do?

    A health insurance broker should be dedicated to the needs of its clients – rather than the interests of an insurance provider. A broker’s mission is to find you the best policy at the right price point by using their connections with numerous providers and their knowledge of the industry. 

    For example, there are several elements to the service at Engage Health Group:

    • Initial discussion and fact-finding: Businesses come to us with various questions related to the global health insurance market. It usually centres around how such policies work and how much it costs. We provide all our answers in plain English.
    • Advice and guidance: We advise clients about the best route forward after we’ve learnt about the business’s needs and scope of coverage required. 
    • Delivering quotes: We gather policy price-points from across the whole market, tailored to the needs of a business.
    • Claims assistance: We assist with claims, should any disputes arise or any further guidance be required.
    • Review policies: We review global healthcare policies to ensure they are providing value for money by comparing against other policies on the market. We will highlight any better, more cost-effective, alternatives.

    Launching or reviewing a global health insurance scheme is a daunting and time-consuming process for HR departments. But a broker can ensure the process runs more smoothly.  

    Insider tip: Brokers are usually paid a commission by the insurance providers meaning their services can be provided free of charge to the business. Look out for any brokers that come with their own fees – these are ones to avoid! Also check if they are members of the AMII as this shows they are dedicated to providing impartial advice and are not tied to an insurer.

     

     

    Why turn to an International Health Insurance broker?

    The International Health Insurance market is full of insurers competing for your attention, all claiming to have the ideal policy for your business. International Healthcare is a considerable investment and that only puts more pressure on HR teams to achieve return-on-investment.

    A reputable Global Health Insurance broker can:

    • Increase you chances of finding the optimal global healthcare policy
    • Reduce the time and stress involved in searching for and managing policies
    • Ensure you budget is spent wisely

    Below we have listed a few issues that can be encountered when looking into International Health Insurance for your staff: 

    • Location-specific requirements: Different countries can pose specific challenges that need to be addressed. For example, in the UAE it is essential to have health insurance in order to obtain a work visa. Meanwhile, in the US, health insurance is mandatory for many employers
    • The range and breadth of global insurance providers: There are a huge number of global health insurers, each with different policies and expertise in different territories.
    • Vast number of products and options: There are potentially thousands of product combinations, exclusions/inclusions and price points to consider.
    • Choosing between domestic and international policies: In some cases, opting for separate domestic policies could be better than investing in a global scheme. Brokers will balance up cost factors, compliance requirements and how best to simplify its administration.

    International Health Insurance brokers will essentially take on the heavy lifting to remove as much stress as possible from the process. 

    Further insights: How to gather the best International Health Insurance quotes. 

    Would you like to speak with an international insurance broker right now? Give our award-winning team a call on 01273 974419 for FREE no-obligation advice and support.

     

     

    What are the benefits of using an Global Health Insurance broker?

    The surge in companies employing talent from around the world has led to increasingly complex demands on HR teams. And this trend is set to continue. So, how do employers ensure that all employees are equally supported wherever they are in the world? 

    Here are some of the key benefits of employing an International Health Insurance broker:

    • Global market-wide quotes: An independent broker is constantly reviewing policies available in the global healthcare market, providing the pick of the bunch to you. 
    • Free expert knowledge: Receive expert knowledge on each insurance company’s terms and conditions – all relayed clearly to you, entirely free of charge.
    • Country-specific knowledge: Gain detailed knowledge on how different health systems operate, what the statutory requirements are and more.
    • Personalised approach: Brokers take the time to fully understand the unique requirements of your business, leading to a plan that fits your specific needs.
    • Broader employee benefits advice: A broker like Engage can also advise on other areas of workplace benefits, including protections schemes, EAPs, corporate wellness, cultural training and more – and explain how they all fit together.
    • Policy implementation: Some brokers also help implement schemes – providing educational materials to employees and generally help onboard employees to ensure they are fully aware of the benefits they have and how to use them.
    • Claims assistance: If there are any disputes with an insurer, a broker can take it up on your behalf.
    • Independent expertise: Assuming they are an impartial broker, you can be assured they are working in your best interests – and not on behalf of the insurance industry!

     

     

    Examples of a global health insurance broker in action

    The Engage International team work with a wide range of clients across various sectors, offering expert advice and industry experience. To share more insight into what we do, we’ve provided a few revealing testimonials from our client-base.

    Remote:

    Global hiring specialist and Employer of Record, Remote, has worked with Engage on its global medical plans. 

    “They helped us establish a comprehensive medical plan that covers our employees globally, with competitive and flat rates. Additionally, they act as advisors, providing us with valuable guidance on best practices in countries where we lack local knowledge.

    “Engage Health’s expertise and network of brokers have been instrumental in navigating the complex world of global benefits. They match us with brokers who share our values and goals, ensuring that we have the right coverage and support for our employees worldwide.

    “We highly recommend Engage Health for their exceptional service and expertise. We are grateful for their partnership and look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.”

    Joana, Senior Expert, Global Benefits Strategy and Design, Remote

    Timber Trading Agency (International):

    Helping to establish a detailed benefit scheme for employees working in medium-high risk countries. 

    “Engage Health Group have been very helpful with our members, many of whom are based in third world countries. They have solved the problems raised regarding the COVID pandemic especially relating to evacuation if needed.”

    Eva Maguire, General Manager of Timber Trading.

    Global IT Company:

    Covering 60 employees in Europe/New Zealand/Australia.  

    In this instance, this organisation had been quickly scaling their international tech pool, hiring remote global employees working in various parts of the world from the get-go. 

    “They went out of their way to provide us with the best quote and negotiated with our current provider, they managed to increase our level of cover and drop the cost. They provided support during the change over to the new policy and came to our office to do an all company presentation explaining how to get the best out of our cover.”

     

    BCB Group:

    Europe’s leading payment service provider.

    “James at Engage was super helpful with explaining all our potential options, he understood the requirement for ensuring the level of cover was appropriate whilst also balancing financial impact.

    “Throughout the process, from market review through to cover in place, there was regular and quick communication, keeping us in the loop with any developments.

    “I would have absolutely no hesitation in coming to James and the team again for any future support required.”

    Take a look at more testimonials here.

     

    Reach out to Engage Health Group!

    The international health insurance and employee benefits market can be difficult and confusing to navigate through. 

    At Engage Health Group, we have a global reach spanning more than 70 countries, enabling us to help international clients streamline their global benefits. We offer genuine expertise and the most competitive quotes in the market. 

    Contact us at enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or call 01273 974419 for FREE no-obligation advice and support. 

  • 5 borderless benefits designed for international workforces

    5 borderless benefits designed for international workforces

    Is your workforce scattered around the world? If so, you’ll need to rise to the challenge of providing a consistent level of employee benefit.

    Group Health Insurance, Income Protection and Life Insurance are a few of the typical policies that businesses provide to employees. They might be relatively simple to arrange for a single country, but how do you implement them for a global workforce?

    One common solution is to invest in a single multi-country scheme, as opposed to buying separate national policies.

    So, in this blog post we look at five employee benefits which are designed to extend beyond borders.

    Need one-to-one professional advice and support to find the best international benefits package for your global teams? Contact us at Engage Health Group Ltd on +44 (0)1273 97449. We’re here to answer any queries and offer FREE expert advice.

     

    1. International Group Health Insurance

    UK businesses employ over 5 million people overseas.

    Source: ONS

    Health insurance is consistently amongst the most in-demand working benefits. But it becomes a whole lot more complicated when you’re trying to serve a global workforce. However, a single International Group Health Insurance policy can cover employees in several countries all at the same time.

    This means just one policy to manage and just one person to contact for all your policy queries. This makes it a lot simpler to navigate and less of a headache for HR teams.

    International health schemes are also more comprehensive than single country ones. You’ll typically get a higher level of maternity support, emergency evacuation, travel vaccinations, private doctor visits and access to top healthcare facilities around the world.

    As with any healthcare policy, what’s included will vary.

     

    2. International Group Life insurance

    International Group Life insurance provides a lump sum to covered employees’ families or beneficiaries in the event of that employee passing away.

    International Group Life covers multiple employees across a range of countries, all under one centrally managed plan. This provides your staff with a consistent level of benefit, efficient administration, and all done through a single contract.

    The policy payout can be calculated as either a fixed amount or based on a percentage of an employee’s salary. This provides businesses with an element of cost control, which is always welcome.

    Need help finding an international solution designed to the needs of your business? Engage helps businesses better understand the global benefits marketplace and find ‘perfect fit’ policies. Contact us at enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or call 01273 974419 for FREE no-obligation advice and support.

     

    3. International Group Income Protection

    Global Group Income Protection ensures employees have financial support if they fall ill or become seriously injured, leaving them unable to work. Coverage is offered on the simple basis that an employee is no longer able to carry out the functions of their job – encompassing many ailments under one cover.

    International Group Income protects your international staff by paying a chosen percentage of their salary (most policies set a maximum limit of 80% of the employee’s wage).

    Expect to receive a host of rehabilitation support included with the package – these are designed to help the employee return to full health faster.

    This borderless benefit acts as a form of international sick pay insurance, supporting your employees all over the world and ensuring guaranteed financial security.

     

    4. Cross-cultural training

    Cross-cultural training programmes help staff learn how to handle cultural differences amongst colleagues or in destination countries. The training programme is accessible for all levels of employees – multicultural teams, business travellers, expatriates, HR teams, short-term international assignees and remote workers.

    Businesses have a range of training programmes to pick from, each targeting specific needs and job roles. These programmes set the foundation for a cohesive workplace, where differences are celebrated, and problems can be managed, providing staff with the tools to navigate people’s difference.

    A successful business with international and borderless teams must embrace cultural differences but also understand differences and how to manage them. Offering cultural training helps international teams stay productive and acclimatise well with different cultures.

     

    5. International Employee Assistance Programmes

    40% of companies are supporting increased flexibility over the country or office employees work from over the next three years.

    Source: HSBC

    International Employee Assistance Programmes (iEAPs) provide a range of employee support services offered under a single platform, addressing the health and wellbeing of your international teams. IEAPs are designed to help each employee, wherever they are in the world, to deal with work-related stresses and personal challenges.

    What’s included in this borderless benefit?

    • Confidential support services 24 hours-a-day
    • Face-to-face counselling
    • Digital tools supporting health & wellbeing
    • Practical employee support for specific issues e.g., legal, childcare, financial, elderly care, work-life balance, relationships, stress, anxiety & depression, life transitions, emotional support (grief, trauma, loss)
    • Employer support for critical/traumatic workplace incidents
    • Multilingual
    • Global access

    The capacity for resilience is important for anyone making their way in the world – and an iEAP is designed to help develop it.

    Investing in iEAPs reflects the growing recognition that a top priority for employers is to support and protect the mental and physical health of their workforce wherever they are in the world.

     

    Which international benefits are right for your company?

    Choosing the right international employee benefits can be challenging, and knowing where to even begin is often half the challenge. As international benefits and health insurance consultants, we understand how important it is to take the time required to ensure that a benefits scheme is precision-engineered to match business and employee needs.

    The award-winning team at Engage Health Group have a wide reach of global partnerships spanning 61 countries and territories meaning we can give you the best advice and the most competitive quotes on the market. By consulting with an experienced international benefits broker you can ensure you’re getting the best cover at the most competitive price point.

    Contact us at enquiries@engagehealthgroup.co.uk or call 01273 974419 for FREE no-obligation advice and support.

     

    Further reading: Why utilising an insurance broker is important for finding the right International Private Medical Insurance policy.

  • Engage and Allianz launch global healthcare policy for UK tech companies

    Engage and Allianz launch global healthcare policy for UK tech companies

    We’re excited to announce that Engage Health Group has joined forces with Allianz Care to launch a new international healthcare scheme for start-ups and tech companies.

    The International Tech Pool is the first healthcare policy of its kind, promising a fairer premium than you’ll find in comparable schemes. The innovative policy has been designed for tech companies and start-ups which employ remote workers or operate satellite offices around the globe.

    Rather than set up separate health policies in multiple countries, the International Tech Pool allows businesses to protect their whole workforce under one policy in an exclusive risk pool consisting of fellow tech companies and start-ups.

    Engage’s International Director, Ian Abbott, believes the product will be a perfect fit for ambitious young start-ups and tech businesses:

    “UK tech companies are increasingly employing overseas workers and are faced with the challenge of providing equal health support to all employees, wherever they are in the world.

    “Yet, the cost of global health insurance is often inflated because their premium is calculated against the claims history of a riskier pool of businesses. We’ve created The International Tech Pool to solve that problem.”

    Find out more about The International Tech Pool here.

    In recent years, we’ve seen a growing trend for companies to “scope the globe” for the best tech talent, yet they often struggle to find health coverage to match. Our new product is designed to help these companies access a more affordable global health insurance premium.

    Companies already using the scheme include product discovery platform, Maze, and payment service provider, Saltpay.

    Paddy Lawlor, Head of Sales & Distribution, UK & Ireland at Allianz Partners, is excited by the product’s potential:

    “Tech starts-ups are often at a real disadvantage compared to well-established companies in their ability to provide top level employee benefits to their employees.”

    “We agreed that if we could build a comprehensive product and combine a pool of many tech start-ups we could offer an employee benefit package at an affordable premium to allow these companies to attract and retain key staff to help them grow.

    “Since the inception of the Engage Health partnership we have seen rapid growth. It has massively surpassed our initial predictions.

    “I am really excited to be able to keep working with a partner who is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in this segment. We are already looking at adding additional lines of insurance to the offering as it keeps developing. The exciting part is that we are only getting started.”

    As an independent health insurance brokerage, Engage will only recommend a policy if it fits the needs of a business. If this product isn’t right for your company, we won’t hesitate to say so.

    > Learn more about The International Tech Pool <