Bupa Global is extending its reach into France by establishing a business partnership with third-party administrator (TPA) ExpaTPA and opening a new sales branch in Paris later this year.
The insurer currently has a limited presence in France but told Health & Protection that through this expansion it aims to increase its international private medical insurance (IPMI) market share in the country to 10%.
It said the partnership will enable it to deliver a tailored service proposition for the IPMI market in France, leveraging ExpaTPA’s capabilities, technology and knowledge of France’s local healthcare market.
Its offering will be launched to individual, SME and corporate customers in France via brokers and direct channels, and customers will have access to an online portal and a digital application.
Customers that take up this proposition will receive the same Bupa Global benefits, including its global provider networks and value-added services such as global virtual care and second medical opinion.
The French market is the fifth largest IPMI market in the world, representing a substantial growth opportunity for Bupa Global, and it has been identified as a key growth market in the insurer’s IPMI strategy.
James O’Reilly, general manager for Bupa Global, Europe said: “ExpaTPA is a trusted provider of high-quality care, and therefore aligned with Bupa Global’s position as the leading provider of premium international healthcare.
“This exciting new partnership creates opportunities to engage in new markets, with potential for new projects and collaborations.”
Sylvain Charpilienne, managing director at ExpaTPA said: “We are delighted to partner with Bupa Global to bring their international healthcare solutions to the French market.
“By combining Bupa Global’s expertise in international health insurance with ExpaTPA’s technology, TPA services and in-depth knowledge of the French healthcare market, we are confident this collaboration will deliver great value to Bupa Global customers.”
