In this iPMI Global article, we explore a proposal by former Labour leader Neil Kinnock to levy VAT on private healthcare services in the UK. This measure aims to generate significant revenue for the National Health Service (NHS), which faces funding challenges. A similar tax was recently imposed on private school fees and that analysis suggests this new healthcare tax could raise over £2 billion. Polling indicates public support for increased taxation on private healthcare firms to benefit the NHS, framing this as a step towards addressing unequal access to care within a perceived two-tier system.

Cigna Healthcare Middle East, a global health services company, has signed a MoU with Ignyte, to provide comprehensive and scalable health coverage to start-ups registered with Ignyte.

Ignyte is a key initiative under the Dubai Digital Economy Strategy, designed to drive exponential growth for start-ups across industries.  This announcement makes Cigna Healthcare the first and exclusive healthcare provider associated with Ignyte.

In this iPMI Global Regional Insights article we explore the key trends shaping international private medical insurance in Latin America. We read the recent iPMI Global Round Table, iPMI Global LATAM iPMI, Assistance and Cost Containment Strategies and delve into several trends that are shaping healthcare and international private medical insurance (iPMI) in Latin America.

In this iPMI Global Regional Insights article we explore the key differences between public and private healthcare in Latin America. We read the recent iPMI Global Round Table, iPMI Global LATAM iPMI, Assistance and Cost Containment Strategies and delve into key differences between public and private healthcare in Latin America.

Bupa Global has launched its first African office in Nairobi, Kenya, recognizing the country as a significant growth market within its global strategy. This move follows the acquisition of an insurance license and is part of a substantial £55M investment in digital innovation and local partnerships. The Nairobi office aims to improve access to world-class healthcare across East Africa by employing a local team and offering various international health insurance plans. This expansion is further supported by Kenya's growing economy and the government's focus on increasing access to quality healthcare, creating a favorable environment for Bupa Global's services and digital tools.

Türkiye is implementing a significant reform to its health insurance system for foreign residents, effective April 1, 2025. 

The new regulations aim to provide broader and more reliable healthcare coverage for expatriates by mandating state-supervised insurance standards and extending access to selected public hospitals. However, this enhanced coverage will come at a significantly higher cost, as ineffective and low-cost policies designed primarily for residence permit applications will be phased out. The reform introduces minimum annual coverage limits, upfront payment requirements, and a shift in commission structures. While initially, public hospital coverage will primarily focus on emergency treatments, further details regarding scheduled appointments and elective procedures are expected. Foreign residents have a limited window before April 1, 2025, to secure existing insurance policies that could offer coverage at lower rates for a longer period.

A new report by Manulife Hong Kong and Deloitte reveals that high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in China increasingly view insurance as a crucial tool for legacy and succession planning. The study, focusing on individuals with net assets of at least HKD 7.8 million, highlights that a significant majority utilize insurance in their asset portfolios, with over half specifically aiming to leverage it for wealth transfer to future generations.

In this iPMI Global Regional article we look at the French healthcare system, following news that Bupa Global, will open an office there and partner with ExpaTPA.

We explore Ian Youngman's recent report, The Future of International Private Medical Insurance (iPMI) and look at key aspects of the French healthcare system, focusing on its structure, financing, insurance options, and regulatory environment.

Bupa Global is expanding its international private medical insurance (IPMI) services into France through a partnership with ExpaTPA. This collaboration aims to provide tailored healthcare solutions to individual, SME, and corporate clients within the French market. 

A Deloitte study reveals that Swiss health insurance premiums are rising sharply, causing many policyholders to consider switching providers or adjusting their coverage. Despite high satisfaction with current insurers, support for a unified health insurance fund is growing, although the study suggests that this might not significantly lower premiums. The rising costs are eroding insurers' reserves, impacting their solvency. The study, based on a survey of over 1,000 people, highlights the potential for savings through switching insurers and the significant premium increases expected in 2025.