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Pre-approval and cost plans for treatment under expat health insurance

How pre-approval works under expat health insurance: when a planned treatment needs a cost plan, how to submit one for a coverage review, how long the review takes, and what to do once it's approved.

Written by Dajana

Expat health insurance covers accidents, emergencies, and new illnesses. For a covered planned treatment expected to cost more than €800, request a cost plan from your doctor and submit it for a coverage review before proceeding. For treatments expected to cost €800 or less, you can go ahead and submit a claim afterward, as long as the treatment meets the coverage criteria. A cost plan is typically reviewed within 2 weeks, and you'll be notified whether the treatment is covered.

What is a cost plan, and when should I request one under expat health insurance?

A cost plan is a document your treating doctor issues that details the expected costs of a treatment or procedure, when the condition started, and the medical necessity of the proposed treatment. Request a cost plan before the treatment goes ahead when a covered planned treatment is expected to cost more than €800, so that coverage can be reviewed first. For treatments expected to cost €800 or less, you can generally proceed and submit a claim afterward, as long as the treatment is medically necessary, relates to a new illness, and is not connected to a preexisting condition.

How do I submit a cost plan for pre-approval under expat health insurance?

  1. Request the cost plan document from your treating doctor.

  2. Log in to your account and select your expat health insurance policy.

  3. Choose the option to submit a claim or cost plan.

  4. Complete the form and attach the cost plan.

How long does the cost plan review take, and what happens after it's approved?

We typically review a cost plan within 2-4 weeks, though it can take up to 6 weeks if we need additional information. After the review, you receive a notification confirming whether the treatment is covered. If the treatment is not covered, we typically provide an explanation. If the cost plan is approved, you can proceed with the treatment. You still need to pay the medical provider upfront and then submit a claim in your account, including the final bill and your payment receipt.

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