Written by Meghan Zuvelek,
20th July 2017

Looking to move abroad? Find out which countries are rated as having the best healthcare systems in the world.

Whether you are healthy or are in need of medical care, choosing a country that has a state of the art healthcare system gives peace of mind when moving abroad. As a UK citizen, many countries offer reciprocal healthcare agreements, such as countries within the European Economic Area (EEA), as well as a handful of others throughout the world. Before relocating abroad it’s important to understand what (if any) health benefits you have in your destination country and to protect yourself with travel insurance if not adequately covered.

According to the World Health Organization France has the, “close to best overall healthcare system in the world”

France

According to the World Health Organization France has the, “close to best overall healthcare system in the world”. The universal system, which is largely financed by the government, is available for all French citizens. As a British national living in France you are covered for a reduced charge or free as part of the EEA region agreement. As a foreigner in France you may also be eligible for state healthcare coverage called Protection Universelle Maladie (PUMA). This is available for people employed in France for three months or more, who intend to spend more than 183 days a year in France.

Singapore

Singapore has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, and the average life expectancy of a Singapore citizen is an impressive 83.1 years old. Singapore is known to have one of the most efficient healthcare systems, offering high-quality health coverage at a low cost. Good international health insurance is required for British retirees and expats in Singapore, until permanent residency or citizenship is granted.

 

If that apple a day doesn’t keep the doctor away, which countries have the best medical services?

 

Switzerland

Switzerland has a universal healthcare system, which UK citizens can access with their European Health Insurance Card. Coverage includes medical treatments, as well as pre-existing medical condition coverage and maternity care. Switzerland ranks as one of the top countries in the world for good health according to the OECD Better Life Index and has some of the cleanest air and water on the planet.

Sweden

Quality of life and life expectancy in Sweden are some of the highest in the world, and as part of the EEA UK citizens have free or reduced-cost access to Sweden’s top-of-the-line healthcare system. Healthcare in Sweden is government funded, and according to OECD Better Life Survey the Swedes rank their health as some of the best in the world.

Hong Kong

The small island of Hong Kong has 42 public hospitals and 11 private hospitals serving its population of just over seven million. The healthcare system in Hong Kong is often considered one of the best on the planet. Expats living in Hong Kong will often be covered by their company health policy, while those not covered by their employer should purchase private health insurance. To be eligible for the government provided medical coverage, Hong Kong residency must be established.

 

France: one of the best health services in the world

 

Australia

Just another reason to move to Australia is the world-class universal healthcare system. Australia has the fourth highest life expectancy in the world and one of the highest qualities of life. There is a reciprocal health agreement between the UK and Australia. This means British citizens residing in Australia as non-residents are entitled to medical benefits for medically necessary out-of-hospital treatments, treatments within a public hospital and prescriptions at a general rate. Once temporary or permanent residency is obtained, these medical benefits continue.

Australia has the fourth highest life expectancy in the world and one of the highest qualities of life.

Germany

Germans are some of the world’s healthiest people. As members of the EEA, British citizens enjoy reduced cost or free medical treatments and procedures while in Germany. About 85% of Germans have voluntary or mandatory public health coverage, while the remainder have private health insurance. British citizens can access the German healthcare system with their European Health Insurance Card, receiving medical treatments at a reduced cost or free.

Whether reliant on healthcare or completely healthy, having quality medical professionals and hospitals available in your new destination is important. These countries listed above have some of the best healthcare systems in the world, many of which are readily accessible for British expats and retirees.

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