Health Insurance question.

[Ajvat37]

So I am 40 trying to get health insurance however I have high cholesterol and premature atrial contractions (a type of arythmia).  I have been told by several doctors the PAC’s are benign and don’t necessarily indicate future problems but I’m having trouble getting covered for heart attack and heart disease.

i am a combat veteran from the US but am not 100% disability so I don’t get coverage overseas.  Maybe I need to clarify if the Veterans admin will cover any heart problems because my PAC’s are listed under my disabilities.  

If anyone knows a provider that can accommodate my needs I would be fine with a higher premium.  I have a daughter now so I’m trying to take better care of myself but health insurance without heart coverage doesn’t make sense to me.

thanks all and especially if there are any US veterans that live in Thailand but deal with the VA a private message would be appreciated.

[Sheryl]

PACs are indeed often benign and by themselves, accompanied by a thorough medical report indicating no other conduction defects, might not be a barrier (for a  knowledgable insurer) but the elevated lipids are a definite risk factor not only for  heart disease but also for stroke and other problems and this is likely to be your biggest problem especially if the levels are not currently controlled on medication.

 

Your best option is to work through a broker. In general international insurers (who issue expat policies) are more sophisticated in understanding and dealing with pre-existing conditions than are local Thai companies.

 

I suggest you contact AA brokers (www.aainsure.net). There is no fee for their service, it does not increase premium costs, and they will help you find the best options. Among the insurers you might ask them about, in alphabetical order are: April (Global) , Cigna, David Shield and Pacific Cross.

 

You are going to need a detailed medical report concerning these two conditions in order for an insurance underwriter to make an informed determination.

 

When pre-existing conditions are covered it can be to different degrees . For example sometimes long-term treatment won't be but acute exacerbations will be (for that to make sense though the condition must first be stable).

 

Even if VA will treat you for heart problems, you would likely be unable to fly to a VA facility if you developed an acute heart problem so some sort of coverage or other plan for emergency care in Thailand is essential.

 

Meanwhile adjust your life style and, if necessary, medications to get your lipids under control.

 

Are you living in Thailand full-time? As if not -- i.e. coming and going from the US  and spending at least a few months a year there-- then a travel policy that includes cover for exacerbation of pre-existing conditions might be an option,

[Ajvat37]

Yes I am living here full time.  Sounds like I have my work cut out to make this happen.  Thanks for the referral to the broker, probably my best bet to get what I need.  

[hdblk]

Hi, I have been living here in Bangkok for well over 3 years and I understand were you are coming from as I have a friend who had a similar condition to yourself.

 

I have my insurance with Asean Consultants, insurance brokers based in Thailand who have access to all the major insurance providers across Thailand and South East Asia. What I liked about them was they provided me with different options with several different insurance companies to choose from depending on my requirements.

 

If you need their contact details please let me know and I can pass on their contact details on to you.