Most of International Medical Group’s (IMG) international private medical insurance (IPMI) policy holders in the Persian Gulf are long-term residents and will be staying put despite the ongoing conflict affecting the region.
This is according to global head of IPMI Kevin Melton (pictured), who told Health & Protection that while the United Arab Emirates (UAE) boasts a strong European and Asian expat community who are raising enquiries about returning home, most policyholders are planning on staying in the region.
“Because of the UAE’s diverse international community, the conflict taking place in the Middle East has a wide-reaching, global impact,” Melton explained.
Flight availability and travel delays
Melton maintained the most common enquiries the provider is receiving from expats involve challenges with returning to home countries, primarily questions about flight availability, travel delays, and what support may be available to them while they remain abroad.
“The primary concern for many expats and travellers is safely returning home and understanding what their coverage includes in the context of a geopolitical conflict,” he continued.
“While our evacuation capabilities are vast, it is important to clarify that IMG specialises in primarily medical evacuations, and our international private medical insurance (IPMI) products do not provide benefits for political evacuation or repatriation due to conflict.”
Different priorities
But most of the firm’s IPMI policyholders have different priorities other than returning home.
“Most of our IPMI policyholders in the Persian Gulf region are long‑term residents who typically remain in-country during periods of regional disruption,” Melton continues. “Their needs continue to centre around access to medical care, which remains supported in accordance with their policy terms.”
Staying informed
Melton added it is important expats remain informed of current developments.
“We advise travellers and expats to follow official guidance from their home governments and local authorities; monitor reputable local news sources for updates; review their policy documents carefully to understand what is and is not covered, particularly regarding war‑related exclusions; and notify their insurer of any potential claims as early as possible,” he concluded.
