Job Discussion Forums

cristobalwj · Joined: 16 Mar 2009 Posts: 2

Hi there,

I'm considering spending a year or two teaching English overseas, but before I spend the time and money to get a certificate (I've already got my B.A.), I have a question about insurance. I'm assuming it doesn't vary wildly from school to school, and that there are general norms for each country.

I currently take a very expensive medication once every 8 weeks for an illness that would have no effect on my teaching. Is there any place I can go that offers affordable, good insurance (specifically that would cover pre-existing conditions, if you know about that)? This is my basic criteria, with saving money over the course of the year a close second. It's easy to find out which countries pay the most, but it's a lot harder to find information about insurance.

Thanks for any help.

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Mon Mar 16, 2009 9:30 pm Post subject:

In assuming that it doesn't vary widely from school to school, you're assuming a lot.

Speaking for approximately for Latin America, it varies a lot. Some jobs offer insurance, some don't. Amongst those that do, I know of none that would cover an expensive pre-existing condition immediately. Some might after a year.

Not your best destination, I'd say.

Best,
Justin

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

You're also assuming that all foreign countries will permit the drug you're taking, or will have an equivalent. Not necessarily so. You may not even be covered under insurance in that country for such a thing (which could be deemed a "pre-existing condition") until they diagnose you for the ailment there first. Maybe not a big deal, but who knows?

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

Where are you from, and where are you thinking of going? Insurance availability and costs vary widely.

cristobalwj · Joined: 16 Mar 2009 Posts: 2

Thanks for the replies, I appreciate it.

I'm from the U.S., got my degree in Canada, and am willing to let the most appropriate situation guide where I end up. It looks like Latin America is out, for instance.

I have a friend in Korea teaching right now, and the money makes that an appealing place. His insurance only covers half the cost, though, and that isn't good enough. So I figured that his plan was the norm in Korea and ruled it out. I'm really not looking for someplace specific to go, just anyplace that offers good insurance and a decent salary.

Thanks again,
Chris