While the majority of expats have found wealth and happiness since moving abroad, it seems the grass isn’t always greener for health. Almost half (44%) of expatriates believe the standard of healthcare is worse in their new country, according to a survey by expatriate health insurer Bupa International. In fact, one in five – equivalent to around 38 million expats worldwide – believe that that their health has deteriorated since moving abroad.

The research also shows that one in five expats say they would rather be treated outside their country of origin or current residence if they fell seriously ill. The countries topping the table of where people would most like to be treated given the choice are Singapore (23%), followed by the USA (15%) South Africa (10%) and the UK (10%).

Dr Sneh Khemka, medical director for Bupa International, said, “These findings are very interesting – while Singapore is seen to have the best healthcare by nearly a quarter of expats, the truth is that, while there are many excellent hospitals in Singapore, the quality of healthcare available there varies, as it does in every country around the world. Therefore, it’s very important to have access to expert medical advice when living abroad, to be sure that you are going to be directed to the most appropriate facilities, whichever country you’re in.

“For example, we recently helped a customer who was involved in a severe accident in the Bahamas, evacuating him by air ambulance to the nearest centre of medical excellence in Miami for emergency treatment.”

For more information about Bupa International, visit www.bupa-intl.com