HCI Group Global Payment Card

by | Feb 16, 2026 | Press releases

HCI Group Global Launches New Global Payment Card to Simplify Access to Healthcare Worldwide

Brighton, UK | 2026 – HCI Group Global Healthcare has announced the launch of its new Global Payment Card, a fully digital healthcare payment solution designed to give members fast, convenient access to medical services anywhere in the world where Mastercard is accepted.

The card enables eligible members (currently corporate clients and seafarers of group schemes) to pay healthcare providers directly, removing the need to self-fund treatment and wait for reimbursement.

The Global Payment Card is available through the HCI Group app and member portal and can be used at hospitals and clinics worldwide that have a point-of-sale terminal. Once a member submits a request and it is approved, funds are loaded onto the virtual card within five working days.  Often funds are available within minutes.

Designed for globally mobile members, the card provides quick access to funds without the traditional reimbursement process. It also supports multi-currency payments, automatically converting to local currency to reduce friction for members receiving care abroad.

Key benefits of the Global Payment Card include:

  • No reimbursement delays, members pay providers directly with the card
  • Worldwide acceptance at hospitals and clinics
  • Multi-currency support with automatic local currency conversion
  • Fully digital access via the HCI Group app or member portal

Commenting on the launch, Ian Wood, CEO of HCI Group Global, said:

“We are delighted to introduce the Global Payment Card as another way to make life easier for our group customers. This solution adds real convenience for members who need quick access to healthcare while on the move, and it reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring healthcare is provided quickly and seamlessly, wherever our customers are in the world.”

Members submit requests through the app or member portal at least five working days prior to their appointment, including medical documentation and cost estimates. Following review and approval, the card is loaded with the agreed amount and is ready for use. After treatment, members upload their itemised invoices to complete the process.

The Global Payment Card is intended to support planned outpatient care such as specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and scans, offering a modern, digital alternative to traditional claims processing for eligible services.

With this launch, HCI Group Global continues to expand its digital healthcare solutions, helping members access care faster and more seamlessly, wherever life and work may take them.

About HCI Group Global Healthcare
HCI Group Global Healthcare provides international health insurance solutions and digital healthcare services for globally mobile individuals, families, and corporate clients worldwide.

Media Contact:

Rosie Hayes, Head of Marketing & Communications
rosie.hayes@@healthcareinternational.com

+44(0)20 7590 8800
hcigroupglobal.com

 

International Health Insurance Challenges for Expats: What You Need to Know

International Health Insurance Challenges for Expats: What You Need to Know

by | Feb 11, 2026 | Expat info

International health insurance for expats often comes with hidden challenges that can leave you exposed when you need care most. Many plans overlook crucial details like pre-existing conditions, waiting periods, or coverage limits abroad. Knowing these pitfalls helps you avoid unexpected bills and gaps in protection. Read on to learn how to choose a plan that fits your lifestyle and keeps you covered worldwide. For more insights, check out this analysis of visa compliance drivers.

Common Insurance Pitfalls

Navigating the world of international health insurance can feel overwhelming, but understanding the common pitfalls can save you time and stress.

Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage

Many insurance plans don’t cover pre-existing conditions, leaving you vulnerable. This means if you’ve had treatment for a condition before, it might not be covered under your new plan. It’s key to find a policy that includes these conditions to avoid large medical bills. By exploring comprehensive options, you can ensure your needs are met without unexpected expenses.

Understanding Deductibles and Co-Pays

Another common issue is misunderstanding deductibles and co-pays. These are the amounts you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. A lower deductible might mean higher premiums, so it’s crucial to evaluate what makes sense for you financially. Knowing the balance can help you make an informed decision. For those moving to a country with a different healthcare system, this knowledge is even more vital.

Navigating Waiting Periods

Insurance plans often have waiting periods before certain benefits start. This could leave you without coverage when you need it most. Understanding these periods is crucial for effective planning. If you’re planning a move or a big life change, knowing when your coverage begins can prevent gaps. Plan strategically to ensure you’re never caught off guard.

Tailoring Your Insurance Plan

Customizing your insurance plan ensures you have the coverage to fit your lifestyle and needs, no matter where you are in the world.

Worldwide Coverage Options

Having worldwide coverage means you’re protected wherever you go. This kind of coverage is essential for expats who frequently travel or live in multiple countries. It ensures you’re not restricted by borders when seeking medical care. With the right plan, you can access quality healthcare internationally without worrying about limitations. Find out how to secure worldwide coverage including USA by visiting this helpful guide.

Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

Medical evacuation and repatriation are vital for safety. Should something happen in a remote location, getting you to a proper facility is crucial. This coverage provides peace of mind, knowing you won’t be stuck without help. It’s an added layer of security for those in areas without advanced medical facilities. Learn about the importance of these services at Expat Financial.

Visa-Compliant Health Insurance

Visa requirements often mandate specific health insurance. Ensuring your plan meets these standards is crucial for your residency status. A visa-compliant plan saves you from legal troubles and ensures your stay is uninterrupted. It’s all about making your international living experience as smooth as possible. For detailed insights, visit BrightTax.

Choosing the Right Provider

Selecting the right provider can make all the difference in your healthcare experience abroad.

Access to Direct Billing Network

A direct billing network simplifies the payment process. You won’t need to pay upfront and wait for reimbursements. This convenience is invaluable, especially in emergency situations. It also connects you with a network of trusted healthcare providers globally. This feature can alleviate stress and streamline your healthcare experience.

24/7 Emergency Assistance

Having access to emergency assistance 24/7 is non-negotiable. Whether it’s a sudden illness or an accident, knowing help is just a call away is reassuring. This coverage is particularly important in unfamiliar environments where you may not know the local language or customs. It’s about ensuring you’re never alone when you need help most.

Personalised Support and Guidance

Personalised support ensures you get the most from your plan. With a team that understands your unique needs, you can navigate healthcare with confidence. This support is particularly beneficial when dealing with complex healthcare systems in different countries. It’s not just about having insurance; it’s about having a partner in your health journey. Many people assume health insurance is a solo endeavor, but with the right provider, it’s a team effort.

By understanding these aspects, you can make informed decisions about your international health insurance, ensuring you’re protected wherever life takes you.

Explore how HCI Group protects your health worldwide

A spotlight on PilotCare: Medical Insurance for Pilots and Cabin Crew

by | Feb 11, 2026 | Sky

Flying professionally comes with big responsibility and a unique lifestyle. Long hours, time zone changes, and working far from home can take a toll on your health. Whether you are a Captain, First Officer, or part of the cabin crew, having medical insurance designed for aviation professionals matters. That is where PilotCare from HCI Group Global comes in. It is a flexible international private medical insurance plan created specifically for pilots and cabin crew. Yes, it is for cabin crew too.

Insurance Designed Around Life in Aviation

PilotCare is built for people who work in the air and travel across borders regularly. It offers international coverage through a wide network of private hospitals and medical providers. This means you can access quality care wherever your roster takes you. For cabin crew who move between countries often, this kind of global protection is especially valuable.

Core Benefits You Can Rely On

PilotCare includes essential medical benefits as standard:

  • Inpatient treatment, including hospital stays, surgery, specialist fees, nursing care, and prescribed medicines

  • Cancer care, from diagnosis through treatment such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy

  • Emergency dental treatment for urgent pain relief or accidental injury

You can choose from different annual benefit limits so your cover matches your needs and budget. Deductibles can also be selected to help manage premiums.

Optional Add Ons for Extra Peace of Mind

You can customise PilotCare with optional modules to fit your lifestyle and health priorities.

Outpatient Cover
This can include doctor visits, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and home nursing. It helps cover everyday medical needs when you are not admitted to hospital.

Dental Cover
Routine and restorative dental care can be added, such as check ups, fillings, and extractions. This can be useful for crew who spend long periods away from their home dentist.

Assistance and Medical Evacuation
This option can cover emergency transport, medical evacuation, travel for an accompanying person, compassionate travel, and repatriation. For flight crew who may be stationed abroad, this support can be crucial in serious situations.

Maternity Benefits
Available for group schemes, this can include maternity and newborn care, which can be helpful for airlines or operators offering benefits to their crew.

Global Cover That Fits Your Routes

PilotCare offers flexible areas of cover. You can choose regional coverage or worldwide coverage, with or without the United States. This allows you to align your policy with where you live, where you are based, and where you typically fly.

For cabin crew working international routes, having a plan that reflects your real travel patterns can make a big difference when you need care quickly.

Why PilotCare Makes Sense for Aviation Professionals

Standard travel insurance is not designed for people who work in the sky. PilotCare is tailored to the realities of aviation life and offers:

  • International access to private healthcare

  • Flexible benefit limits and optional modules

  • Cover designed for pilots and cabin crew

  • Confidence that medical costs are taken care of while you focus on your job

If you are a pilot or cabin crew member looking for medical insurance that matches your global lifestyle, PilotCare from HCI Group Global is worth considering. Always review the policy details and choose the level of cover that fits your needs and your flying schedule.

Introducing OceanCare

by | Sep 24, 2024 | Press releases, Sea

HealthCare International Group (HCI Group) is proud to announce the launch of its new division, OceanCare, which will provide excellent value International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI) plans specifically designed for marine crew and seafarers.

This exciting new offering will be showcased to our customers and brokers at the Croatia Yacht Show on 1st October 2024.

OceanCare is designed to complement HCI Group’s existing MarineSure division, which offers benefit-rich healthcare plans to marine professionals working on yachts, cruise ships, and other marine vessels.

While MarineSure caters to clients seeking comprehensive, high-end healthcare solutions, OceanCare will offer a lower-cost alternative without compromising on the quality of coverage.

Both MarineSure and OceanCare plans will now also offer a new Life and Disability option allowing yacht managers the ability to purchase a complete package of insurance to cover their crew medical needs and their employee contractual liabilities in the event of illness or accident.

Ian Wood, CEO of HCI Group, expressed his enthusiasm about the launch of OceanCare:

“We are thrilled to introduce OceanCare to the maritime community. Our team has worked tirelessly to develop a product that not only meets the healthcare needs of marine crew and seafarers but also provides exceptional value. OceanCare is an important addition to our portfolio, offering affordable, flexible coverage options that ensure the wellbeing of those who work at sea. We look forward to unveiling this alongside our new life and disability product new offering at the Croatia Yacht Show and are confident that OceanCare will set a new standard in the industry.”

OceanCare represents HCI Group’s ongoing commitment to delivering specialist insurance solutions to meet the unique needs of people living away from their home country. Healthcare plans across HCI Group are designed for those exploring the land, sea and sky.

By providing more affordable options for those living at sea, HCI Group aims to expand access to quality healthcare for marine professionals around the world.
The inaugural Croatia Yacht Show in Zadar on the Dalmatian coast will serve as the perfect platform to introduce OceanCare to industry professionals, yacht owners, and seafarers alike. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the new IPMI plans and how they can benefit from OceanCare’s comprehensive yet cost-effective insurance solutions.

For more information about OceanCare or to schedule a meeting with HCI Group representatives at the Croatia Yacht Show, please visit the OceanCare website or contact our media relations team at enquiries@healthcareinternational.com.

About HealthCare International Group (HCI Group)

HealthCare International Group (HCI Group) is a leading provider of international private medical insurance solutions, offering a wide range of products tailored to the needs of people living away from home. With a strong focus on innovation and customer service, typical customers include expats, seafarers and pilots.
HCI Group is committed to ensuring that its clients have access to the best possible healthcare, whether on the land sea or in the sky.

Media Contact:

Rosie Hayes
Head of Marketing & Communications
HealthCare International Group
Email Rosie: rosie.hayes@healthcareinternational.com

Thinking of moving to Thailand?

by | Oct 6, 2023 | Land

Thailand is a popular choice for many expatriates seeking a better way of life. This guide is for anyone considering a move to The Land of the Smiles.

Understand Thai Culture and Lifestyle
There are certain customs and traditions in Thailand and understanding these aspects will help you integrate smoothly into the society. Instead of shaking hands, it is customary in Thailand to greet someone respectfully with a ‘Wai’.

Find out how to Wai properly in Thailand.

Visa Options for Expats and Retirees

1. Tourist Visa
For short-term stays, you can enter Thailand on a tourist visa, typically valid for 30-60 days. Extensions are possible, but long-term stays will require another visa type.

2. Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O-A Visa)
If you’re 50 years old or above, you can apply for a retirement visa. This visa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries into Thailand. You’ll need to meet financial requirements, including proof of funds and a criminal background check from your home country.

3. Investment Visa
Investors and business people may apply for a Thai Investment Visa. The minimum investment amount and requirements vary, so consult with a Thai embassy or consulate for the latest details.

4. Work Visa (Non-Immigrant B Visa)
If you plan to work or start a business in Thailand, you’ll need a Non-Immigrant B Visa. This involves securing a job offer or setting up a business and fulfilling the visa requirements associated with employment.

Financial Considerations

1. Bank Account
Open a bank account in Thailand, as it is a requirement for long-term stay visas. Ensure you understand the banking regulations and options available.

2. Health Insurance
Having health insurance is highly advisable. HCI Group’s Protector Plans offer various health insurance options suitable for expatriates in Thailand, providing cover for medical emergencies and routine healthcare.

Housing and Accommodation
1. Renting
Decide whether you want to rent or buy property. Renting is a common choice for expats, especially initially. Research neighborhoods and properties to find the one that suits your needs and budget.

2. Buying Property
If you decide to purchase property, work with a reputable real estate agent and ensure you understand the legal and financial aspects of property ownership in Thailand. as it is not straightforward. Find out more about buying property in Thailand.

Healthcare and Medical Facilities

1. Healthcare Facilities
Research and locate reputable hospitals and clinics in your area. Thailand offers high-quality healthcare services, and major cities have modern medical facilities. If you opt for a HCI Group healthcare plan there are no restrictions on the private hospital network and you can opt to have treatment in the setting of your choice.

2. Health Check-ups and Insurance
Regular health check-ups are a priority for many expats. Consider getting health insurance to cover any medical emergencies or treatments. All of our Protector Plans cover emergencies and unexpected illness such as cancer, heart attack or stroke. Our Plus, Premium and Executive Plans include cover for outpatient care and many other benefits too.

Learning the Language and Cultural Integration

1. Learning Thai Language
Learning basic Thai phrases will enhance your daily life and interactions. Consider enrolling in a language course to improve your proficiency.

2. Cultural Integration
Engage with the local community, participate in cultural events, and be open to learning and adopting the Thai way of life.

Networking and Socializing

1. Expat Communities
Connect with expat communities and social groups. They can provide valuable insights, support, and help you adapt to your new surroundings. Many have thriving social media groups if you prefer to connect online.

If you are a member of the following expat clubs in Thailand we can offer you 10% off your HCI Group health insurance policy!

Chiang Mai Expats Club

Pattaya Expats Club

Hua Hin Expats Club

Get in touch

Moving to Thailand and becoming an expat or retiree is a popular choice for many HCI Group customers. With the beautiful beaches and welcoming culture, it is no wonder Thailand is known as ‘The Land of the Smiles’.

If you have any questions about obtaining HCI Group medical insurance in Thailand please meesage us on WhatsApp. +44 7457 405263 and we will happy to talk through our policies.

Find out more about our expat health cover