Are you thinking of investing in health insurance? If you still have doubts and aren’t sure whether or not this is a good investment, this article is for you.
We’ll give you 5 reasons why you should invest in health insurance and some factors to take into account when choosing one.
Why invest in health insurance?
1. Good health insurance suits you and your family
Good health insurance covers the care and services your family needs for a peaceful life, at least as far as health is concerned. What’s more, it’s health insurance that adapts to your needs and allows you to create a package tailored to the profile of your family.
For example, if you have trouble getting to a hospital or health center (because you don’t have your own car or public transport network, for example) it makes sense to choose a health plan that includes home visits and consultations. On the other hand, if you’re thinking of increasing your family, consider a health insurance plan that includes everything you’ll need: specialist and follow-up appointments, childbirth and, later on, pediatrics.
2. Reduced waiting times
Having health insurance means being seen more quickly. As there is access to a network with a greater number of providers (clinics, doctors and complementary centers), getting a specialty appointment has never been quicker and easier.
Although the National Health Service (SNS) is one of the most renowned in the world, at times of greater pressure it ends up not being able to respond quickly and promptly to emergencies, consultations or even hospitalizations. An example of this was the Covid-19 pandemic.
At this time, it was health insurance plans that guaranteed health care for many people who were afraid to go to overloaded public hospitals and clinics and face long waiting times.
3. Health insurance offers home care
Nowadays, many health insurances include consultations, home monitoring and delivery of medication or even “video consultations”, which are safer and simpler ways of receiving medical advice. This is important cover, for example, for those who live in remote areas, for the elderly or for people who have difficulty getting around.
4. Cost sharing
Co-payment of medical expenses is one of the biggest advantages of having health insurance. Whether it’s medical appointments, tests, home visits or treatments abroad, you’ll only pay a small part of the cost. Moreover, with the increase in user fees, health insurance deductibles are sometimes more affordable.
This means that when you pay for a consultation or other medical act, you end up paying only part of the cost, and the rest is covered by the insurance company. As a rule, this amount or percentage is fixed in advance.
5. Having health insurance offers tax benefits
You may not know this, but according to the IRS Code, you can deduct 15% of the premiums paid for health insurance. Just remember that there is a limit of €1,000 on deductions for health expenses.
This amount includes health insurance premiums that cover health risks relating to the taxpayer or their dependents. However, the Tax Authority (AT) only accepts the deduction of the premium if the health insurance covers health risks, so it is no longer eligible if it has additional cover.
What is the best health insurance in Portugal?
The best health insurance is the one that best suits your needs. When it comes to choosing health insurance, it’s best to carry out simulations. Do several, explore different options and only then make a considered and informed decision.
These are some of the aspects you should take into account when choosing your insurance:
- Price;
- Deductibles;
- Cover package and respective limits;
- Partner network;
- Exclusions;
- Medical questionnaire (or not);
- Age limits;
- Grace period.
Still have doubts about the advantages of this insurance? Talk to us. Ask one of our agents, fill in the contact form or visit one of our establishments.
Simulate your insurance here.
