However, for new expatriates it is so easy to get caught up in the mêlée of finding a home, job, school etc that provision for their healthcare can be easily over-looked until such time that a care service is required.

One of France’s greatest assets is its state health system, and in the past all EU expatriates arriving in France were eligible to join it. However, since late 2007 those arriving in France, and who are not planning to work, are officially retired or in possession of documents which mean their healthcare costs are covered by the government of their original country, will not be allowed to join the system until they reach state retirement age or have lived there for five years. Until then, they have to hold private health insurance.

Therefore, it is vital that expatriates obtain the right insurance provision to enable them to make the most of the excellent standard of healthcare available to them.

Private health insurance is quite different from the current complementary insurance 'top up' policies because the underwriter assumes all the risk (up to policy limits) less any excesses payable by the insured.

Lee Gerry from Expatriate Healthcare said: “It is really important that new expatriates keep healthcare cover high on their agenda when they first move to France – because it is often too late to think about it when they actually need it. However, we do appreciate that it can be one item on a very long to-do list, which is why we offer uncomplicated service-driven medical cover designed solely for expatriates.”

Expatriate Healthcare has a wealth of experience and insight into the wants and needs of expatriates and provides simple, effective and easy-to-understand products and services. This is reflected in its three key plans, which offer varied levels of cover and services to suit a wide range of different personal circumstances and budgets.

Expatriate Healthcare have a range of comprehensive and affordable private medical insurance plans on the market with prices starting at as little as EUR 39 per month. Their Select policy provides a total solution to healthcare, chronic, dental and maternity needs; the plan not only provides excellent cover in the event of an illness, it also provides preventative benefits (vaccinations, checkups and screenings) for a healthier outlook.

For more information on Expatriate Healthcare’s range of cover, please call +44 (0)870 428 5140 or visit www.expatriatehealthcare.com.