Private Health Insurance in the Philippines: Choosing What’s Right for You
There’s no universal answer to private health insurance in the Philippines. Your decision will depend on how you balance cost, risk, and personal priorities. While some expats go years without ever needing coverage, others find themselves in a hospital room with no warning. Insurance may feel like an unnecessary expense—until it isn’t. This guide walks you through what to consider, what it costs, and why the “best” choice is always the one that fits your life, not someone else’s.
What Are Your Health Insurance Options in the Philippines?
For expats and retirees, there are four main ways to approach health coverage in the Philippines. Each comes with its own risks, benefits, and assumptions. Some choose full coverage; others rely on savings. The best choice depends on how you balance cost, convenience, and the reality of your own health risks — not just today, but down the line.
1. No Insurance – Self-Fund When Needed
Some expats choose to pay out of pocket for all care. With low-cost clinics and affordable medications, this can work—especially if you're in good health and living modestly. Others avoid high-level insurance on principle, preferring to save the premium and manage costs as they arise. But it’s a gamble: one serious illness or accident can easily wipe out years of careful planning and strain even a healthy savings buffer.
2. PhilHealth – Public Insurance for Legal Residents
PhilHealth is the Philippines’ national health insurance program. It's low-cost and widely accepted in public hospitals, but it does not offer full protection—co-payments are common, and coverage in private hospitals is often limited. Foreigners on long-stay visas like the SRRV or the 13A marriage visa, are eligible to enroll. However, tourists on a temporary visitor visa are not allowed to join.
For many eligible retirees, PhilHealth serves as a basic safety net—especially for inpatient care in government hospitals, and in some private hospitals where limited discounts apply. However, it’s not a substitute for full private coverage. For a closer look at how it works, see our full In Focus article below:
PhilHealth - A Guide for Expats3. HMO Plans – Local Private Coverage
Local Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) like Maxicare or Intellicare offer private coverage for Filipinos and resident foreigners. These plans often include check-ups, lab tests, and hospitalization in accredited facilities. Premiums vary by age and coverage level, but they’re more affordable than international plans.
4. Overseas Insurance – International or Expats-Only Providers
For those who travel frequently or want global coverage, international health insurance from companies like Cigna, Allianz, or IMG offers broad protection. These plans are more expensive but provide access to top private hospitals, evacuation coverage, and service in English. Ideal for long-term peace of mind—if your budget allows it.
5. Layering Coverage for Flexibility
Some retirees combine options for a more balanced approach—PhilHealth for public care, a local HMO for everyday needs, and savings or travel insurance for emergencies. This can reduce overall costs while still offering a safety net. It takes more planning, but for many, it strikes the right balance between risk and affordability.
HMOs vs. International Insurance: What’s the Difference?
Both HMOs and international health insurance offer private healthcare access—but they serve different needs. HMOs in the Philippines are local plans that cover care within accredited networks, often at a lower cost. They’re best for retirees who live in one place and mainly need routine or emergency care inside the country.
International insurance, on the other hand, offers global coverage, high policy limits, and flexibility to choose your doctor or hospital—even outside the Philippines. These plans suit frequent travelers, digital nomads, or those who want access to top-tier private hospitals with minimal paperwork. They also come with higher premiums and stricter underwriting.
In short: HMOs are budget-friendly and practical for local life. International plans offer broader protection for those who want the highest level of care or move between countries. Some expats use both—an HMO for day-to-day needs and an international plan for serious issues or evacuation coverage.
| Feature | HMO (Local) | International Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage Area | Philippines only (within provider network) | Global coverage, including travel and expat destinations |
| Hospital Access | Accredited local clinics and hospitals only | Choice of top private hospitals worldwide |
| Typical Uses | Routine checkups, emergency care, short hospital stays | Major illness, surgery, evacuation, extended treatment |
| Premium Cost (Estimated ranges) |
₱10,000–₱50,000/year Varies by age, plan, and provider |
₱100,000–₱300,000/year+ Depends on coverage level and health screening |
| Age Restrictions | Often capped at 60–65 for new applicants | Some plans accept up to 74 or higher, but with medical screening |
| Claim Process | Cashless within network; pre-approval often required | Reimbursement or direct billing; smoother for large claims |
| Best For | Expats living in one city, looking for affordable local care | Frequent travelers or retirees who want maximum flexibility and protection |
Important Note: The comparison above is based on general offerings as of 2025 and may vary depending on the provider, policy terms, and individual applicant profiles. Premiums, age limits, and claim processes can differ significantly. Always check with each insurer directly to confirm current eligibility, benefits, and exclusions before making a decision.
Major Health Insurance Providers in the Philippines
Whether you’re leaning toward a local HMO or an international plan, knowing the main players can help you compare coverage and get reliable service. Here’s a quick look at the most established companies offering health insurance to expats and long-term residents in the Philippines.
| Provider | Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Maxicare | HMO (Local) | Wide local network, plans for individuals and seniors, strong presence in Metro Manila and Cebu |
| Intellicare | HMO (Local) | Popular among companies and families, coverage in major cities, limited outside-network options |
| Medicard | HMO (Local) | Offers individual, family, and prepaid plans; includes wellness services and teleconsults |
| Pacific Cross | HMO / International Hybrid | Local plans with some international options; known for expat-friendly service and hospitalization coverage |
| Cigna Global | International | Fully global coverage, customizable benefits, ideal for expats with higher medical needs or frequent travel |
| Allianz Care | International | Premium-level plans, multilingual support, worldwide provider network including major Philippine hospitals |
| IMG Global | International | Affordable options with global reach, suited to retirees looking for lower-cost entry plans |
| AXA Philippines | HMO / International | Local and international hybrid offerings, with critical illness add-ons and investment-linked health plans |
Disclaimer: The information in this table reflects publicly available details as of 2025. Plan types, coverage levels, and eligibility criteria can change frequently. Always consult directly with each provider to verify current offerings, especially regarding age limits, exclusions, and whether foreigners are eligible under specific plans.
Final Thoughts on Private Health Insurance in the Philippines
Choosing health insurance in the Philippines isn’t about finding the “best” provider—it’s about finding what works for your lifestyle, health needs, and level of risk tolerance. Some expats get by with PhilHealth and savings. Others invest in full international coverage for peace of mind. Many find a comfortable balance somewhere in between.
The key is to be honest with yourself. Could you handle a sudden ₱1 million hospital bill? Are you staying put or traveling often? Do you want fast access to private care—or is public care good enough for your needs? These are personal questions, and the answers shape the right decision for you.
What matters most is that you plan ahead. Emergencies don’t wait for paperwork, and in a system where you may need to pay first and claim later, being prepared can make all the difference. Take time to explore your options now—so you’re not left guessing when it counts.
What’s Next — Now that we understand about your private healthcare options, why not explore how this fits into the bigger picture of living life in the Philippines and look into Visa Options and the Cost of Livng?
Or go back to the In Focus articles to explore other key topics for expats and retirees in the Philippines.