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Understanding health insurance in UAE: what you need to know

The UAE has its own health system which is government-funded. However, it is also mandatory for UAE residents to take out health insurance, which is typically done via an employer. While this minimum-limit coverage, as defined by the government, provides useful protection in the event of illness or injury, it’s also a good idea to consider taking out a private policy in addition to mandatory insurance. Here’s why:

1) Faster treatments

With mandatory health insurance and medical coverage, you may be placed on a waiting list for treatment. During this time, your condition could get worse. With private health insurance, you can expect to be fast-tracked as soon as you make an appointment, as both diagnosis and treatment times are much quicker when attending a private hospital or clinic.

2) Private rooms

If you require a short stay in the hospital, you may feel like you want privacy during your convalescence. This is not guaranteed under mandatory health insurance. When you choose a private health insurance policy that stipulates that a private room will be guaranteed in the event of requiring a hospital stay, you can have the peace of mind that you’ll be able to recover in a more discreet and comfortable environment.

3) Value for money

In comparison to other countries, the cost of private health insurance is significantly less in the UAE. This is because things like surgical operations and treatments are cheaper. With a health insurance policy, you can expect to get the best possible treatment when you need it, without having to worry too much about the overall cost.

4) Access to more treatments and prescriptions

Some drugs and operations are not available with mandatory health insurance. To ensure access to the treatment you need, it is important to have a private health insurance policy with adequate cover.

5) Lots of options

When choosing private health insurance in UAE, you can select from policies that cover you within your city of residence, or plans that cover you for the whole UAE. If your occupation doesn’t involve much travelling, a city-wide plan could help you to save money. If you require nationwide coverage, you’ll be able to find a health insurance plan that suits your lifestyle.

If you’d like to know more about health cover in UAE, please feel free to contact us today. A member of our team will be happy to help you find the most suitable deal.

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