Well, i like competition, too. Please post accessible health care programs for expats/visa holders

[NuttyFluffers]

I heard Obama's speech tonight as others did... that's nice. i agree with competition, too.

which brings me to the vague memory how Mexico can insure people, even people with visas (and not necessarily requiring permanent residency, either?), for around $300 a year. also some real nice care, according to this article:

http://www.focusonmexico.com/Mexico-Topics/Health-Care/IMSS-National-Health-Insurance.html

but i question, can i get it by just getting a visa at the Mexican consul and applying while living in the USA most, if not all, the time? any people with familiarity with this system would add tremendously to this conversation.

Maybe we can make this topic into a Health Resource for people who want to shop around (especially if they cannot wait for our politicians to figure it out).

so... are there any other "competitive plans" out there from other countries that we as Americans (particularly truly cash strapped ones) can access? please post it here as a service to others! :D

ps: please let's keep this productive for others who want to use this as a resource, compiling options and anecdotal experience, instead of petty bickering. thanks in advance! :hug:

[FreakinDJ]

1. Philippines - you pay directly to the Hospital for Insurance

Philippines is 1 of those countries that has No National Health Care Plan and YES they will let you die in the waiting room if you don't have the money, so it is essential to have the insurance.

Also you'll want to live in close proximity to the hospital. Because they don't have a National Health Care Plan they also don't have ambulances. Most people arrive by taxi

[NuttyFluffers]

2. hmm, not all that helpful in comparison to Mexico...

but it's a start. we can now safely cross off Philippines from a list of countries that provide alternative insurance options for American citizens.