Moving abroad is a magical adventure, but it also requires a good deal of preparation, especially when it comes to your health insurance coverage. Among the most popular destinations for the French, the United States stands out. Whether for an au pair stay, a school exchange, a trip or an expatriation, the possibilities for going to the USA are numerous. However, the complexity of the healthcare system and health insurance in the USA is a crucial factor to take into account before you leave.
That’s why we recently organized an hour-long discussion with Frenchylo_ (Laurène), with whom we’ve been collaborating for over a year. Laurène is very familiar with the United States and the health issues associated with this destination. She recently published a guide to successful travel in the USA and has just received her Green Card to live in the US. These elements make this Instagram live a valuable resource, both for Laurène and for her community.
Can I use my Vitale card when abroad?
Raphaël Le Bars, international health expert at Santexpat.fr, and Laurène kicked off this live chat by tackling a question that many people ask themselves when going abroad: can you use your Vitale card abroad?
The Carte Vitale cannot be used outside France. Join the Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE) to maintain social security coverage during extended stays abroad. This membership enables you to maintain rights similar to those of the French Social Security system, thus facilitating access to healthcare when you return to France. Raphaël enlightened Laurène’s community by adding:
“You keep these Social Security rights for a given period of time […], about 6 months. In real life, Social Security stops when you go abroad. If you still want to benefit from some form of social security cover when you return to France, it’s advisable to join the CFE.”
Raphaël Le Bars – International health insurance expert
Laurène also pointed out that when she returned to France after her stay as an au pair, she had to wait 3 months before being able to benefit again from her social security (or CPAM) rights. Indeed, during her period as an au pair in the USA, Laurène was covered by international health insurance, which led to a waiting period on her return to France.
What are the differences between local (American) contracts and international health insurance contracts?
Local health insurance contracts in the USA often come with restricted provider networks and high costs, such as deductibles and co-payments. International health insurance, on the other hand, offers worldwide coverage with greater flexibility in the choice of practitioners. They usually include customization options for specific needs, such as maternity or dental care. It is important to note that, according to recent market trends, expatriate health insurance premiums have seen moderate increases, ranging from 4% to 8% for 2024, depending on the country of expatriation.
It is also possible to be covered if you have a chronic illness or other medical condition. However, the insurer may quote a higher premium or exclude the existing condition. Age is the only factor that can complicate the process of obtaining insurance for a trip abroad. Over the age of 60, it can be difficult to find insurers willing to cover you.
Please note: If you are insured before your 60th birthday, there will be no difficulty in keeping your policy.
Regarding local American health insurance, Laurène said:
“It’s similar to classic American insurance, where not all is equal. Sometimes it’s fully funded by the employer, sometimes it’s partially funded or we fund it ourselves. In reality, each insurance company has its own partner clinics, and it’s not possible to go to just any clinic, otherwise we won’t be reimbursed.”
Frenchylo_ (Laurène)
What about specific treatments such as ophthalmology, dentistry, etc.?
Temporary travel health insurance policies in the USA generally cover emergencies, but not routine care such as eye or dental consultations. For comprehensive coverage including these services, take out an international health insurance policy with tacit renewal. This type of contract offers extended coverage tailored to specific needs. These contracts offer extensive cover, although certain services, such as orthodontics during treatment, may not be covered.Raphaël Le Bars added:
“On temporary contracts, some insurers may cover this type of expense but only for emergencies. For example, if you break your glasses or your teeth are knocked out in an accident, this will be covered.”
Raphaël Le Bars, international health insurance expert
Anything involving scaling, implants or even cavities will need to be covered by an open-ended health insurance policy. This type of coverage is often optional. For all orthodontic matters, if you’re already undergoing treatment, it’s best to anticipate this type of question before you leave, as you won’t be covered.
Can I take out insurance with my bank card?
Some bank cards offer health insurance benefits when traveling abroad. These benefits are only available for trips of less than 90 days. Raphaël Le Bars to add:
“Even for stays of less than 90 days, this is not necessarily advisable, as it involves only the advance payment of expenses and not real coverage. Coverage limits are often somewhat limited. What’s more, it’s imperative to call your bank card’s assistance service before taking any action, otherwise you risk not being reimbursed.”
Raphaël Le Bars, international health insurance expert
Health insurance linked to bank cards is generally limited to stays of less than 90 days, and offers restricted coverage limits. What’s more, they often operate on the principle of advance payment of expenses, necessitating a subsequent claim for reimbursement. We advise you not to rely solely on this coverage for extended stays. We recommend that you take out supplementary health insurance in countries where healthcare is expensive, such as the United States.
So, should you take out health insurance for your trip to the United States?
During the live session, we discussed a wide range of topics including part-time work, maternity and the cost of childbirth, as well as questions about repatriation insurance when traveling. This information-packed exchange enabled us to answer as many questions as possible from the Frenchylo community on healthcare issues in the USA.
As we’ve seen in this live interview, whether you’re traveling or expatriating, it’s essential to prepare carefully and be covered by health insurance from the outset. Indeed, the cost of health insurance in the U.S. may seem daunting, but it’s far less than the expenses you could face in the event of a medical need during your stay. So don’t neglect your health insurance. As Frenchylo points out, health-related expenses can quickly add up.
If you’re planning a trip to the U.S., we also recommend that you read up on the essential activities and information you need to know before you leave by consulting the book offered by Frenchylo: “The ultimate guide to a successful trip to the U.S.“. It’s important to plan your trip before you leave!
