Written by
John Spencer
John Spencer is the founder of Compare Expat Plans, where he focuses on helping people compare health plans for life abroad. He emphasizes clear information, neutral analysis, and practical decision support.
Quick Verdict
Choose AXA Global If:
- ✓ You're based in Europe (especially France)
- ✓ You want a massive global network (1.6M+)
- ✓ You value French regulatory protection
- ✓ You need multi-currency flexibility
Choose Now Health If:
- ✓ You're based in Asia or Middle East long-term
- ✓ You want 10-15% lower premiums
- ✓ You value Traditional Chinese Medicine coverage
- ✓ You want enhanced mental health benefits
Overview
AXA Global Healthcare and Now Health International serve different markets with different strategies. AXA, backed by the French insurance giant, operates one of the world's largest provider networks and emphasizes global reach. Now Health, founded in Hong Kong by industry veterans, focuses on delivering superior value and service in Asia and the Middle East.
The choice often comes down to geography. AXA excels in Europe and provides seamless coverage for globally mobile expats. Now Health delivers better pricing and deeper local expertise in their core Asian markets. Both insurers are financially stable and have solid claims reputations.
If you're comparing these two, you're likely in Asia or the Middle East weighing AXA's global brand against Now Health's regional focus. This guide helps you understand which insurer better fits your specific situation.
AXA Global at a Glance
- Parent Company: AXA SA (France)
- Founded: 1816 (AXA origins); Global division 1999
- Network: 1.6M+ healthcare providers
- Headquarters: Paris, France
- Best For: Europe, globally mobile professionals
- Pricing: Mid-tier (competitive for global coverage)
Now Health at a Glance
- Parent Company: Now Health International
- Founded: 2012 (by Cigna/Aetna veterans)
- Network: 900K+ healthcare providers
- Headquarters: Hong Kong
- Best For: Asia/Middle East expats, value seekers
- Pricing: 10-15% below AXA typically
Coverage Comparison
Both insurers provide comprehensive international health coverage with similar core benefits. The differences are in specific features, regional add-ons, and coverage maximums.
| Coverage Feature | AXA Global | Now Health |
|---|---|---|
| Inpatient Hospital | Up to €2M (Exclusive) | Up to $2.6M |
| Outpatient Care | Full coverage | Full coverage |
| Mental Health | Included (limits apply) | Included (enhanced) |
| Maternity | Optional add-on | Optional add-on |
| Dental | Optional add-on | Optional add-on |
| Vision | Optional add-on | Included in some plans |
| Wellness/Preventive | Included | Included |
| Medical Evacuation | Up to €1M | Up to $1M |
| Alternative Medicine | Limited | Traditional Chinese Medicine included |
| Chronic Conditions | Covered after waiting period | Covered after waiting period |
Plan Tiers Compared
| Plan Tier | AXA Global | Now Health |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | Essential | WorldCare Lite |
| Mid-Range | Comfort | WorldCare Classic |
| Comprehensive | Exclusive | WorldCare Prestige |
| Deductible Range | €0 - €5,000 | $0 - $5,000 |
| Annual Maximum | €2M (Exclusive) | $2.6M (Prestige) |
| Lifetime Maximum | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Key difference: Now Health's top-tier annual maximum ($2.6M) is actually higher than AXA's (€2M ≈ $2.2M). Now Health also includes Traditional Chinese Medicine and has enhanced mental health benefits in base plans, while AXA requires add-ons.
Coverage Highlights
AXA Global Strengths
- ✓ Largest provider network (1.6M+)
- ✓ Strong European hospital relationships
- ✓ Multi-currency premium payments
- ✓ SecureFit wellness program included
- ✓ Active&Fit gym network access
Now Health Strengths
- ✓ Traditional Chinese Medicine coverage
- ✓ Enhanced mental health benefits
- ✓ Vision included in some plans
- ✓ Higher annual maximum ($2.6M)
- ✓ Better Asia hospital relationships
Ready to compare quotes?
Get personalized pricing from both AXA Global and Now Health based on your specific situation.
Get Free QuotesWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
Pricing Breakdown
Now Health generally prices 10-15% below AXA for comparable coverage in Asia. The gap is smaller than with premium insurers like Cigna or Bupa because AXA already positions itself competitively. Here are representative monthly premiums:
| Profile | AXA Global | Now Health |
|---|---|---|
| Single, Age 30 (Asia excl. US) | €130-180/mo | $120-170/mo |
| Single, Age 40 (Asia excl. US) | €190-260/mo | $180-250/mo |
| Single, Age 50 (Asia excl. US) | €300-400/mo | $280-380/mo |
| Couple, Age 35 (Asia excl. US) | €270-360/mo | $250-350/mo |
| Family of 4 (Asia excl. US) | €450-620/mo | $420-600/mo |
Pricing note: These are indicative ranges for comprehensive plans excluding US coverage. AXA quotes in EUR; Now Health in USD. At current exchange rates, the price difference is modest—often $20-50/month for individuals. Consider both actual quotes before deciding.
What Drives the Price Difference?
- Network scope: AXA's larger global network costs more to maintain
- European infrastructure: AXA's Paris operations serve global compliance needs
- Regional efficiency: Now Health's Asia focus allows streamlined operations
- Brand recognition: AXA's global brand commands modest premium
- Wellness programs: AXA includes gym access and wellness apps
Deductible Impact
Both insurers offer similar deductible structures with comparable discounts. A €2,500/$2,500 deductible typically saves 25-35% on premiums.
AXA Deductible Options
- €0 — Full premium
- €500 — ~12% discount
- €1,500 — ~22% discount
- €2,500 — ~30% discount
- €5,000 — ~40% discount
Now Health Deductible Options
- $0 — Full premium
- $500 — ~15% discount
- $1,500 — ~25% discount
- $3,000 — ~35% discount
- $5,000 — ~40% discount
Network & Direct Billing
AXA operates one of the largest healthcare networks globally. Now Health has a smaller but highly focused network in Asia and Middle East. Your location determines which network serves you better.
| Region | AXA Global | Now Health |
|---|---|---|
| Global Network Size | 1.6M+ providers | 900K+ providers |
| Europe | Excellent | Good |
| France | Exceptional (HQ) | Good |
| Hong Kong | Strong | Excellent (HQ) |
| Singapore | Strong | Excellent |
| UAE/Middle East | Strong | Excellent |
| Thailand | Good | Strong |
| China (Mainland) | Good | Excellent |
| Direct Billing | Extensive globally | Strong in Asia |
Direct Billing Experience
AXA Direct Billing
AXA's extensive network means direct billing is available at most major international hospitals worldwide. Their guarantee of payment system is well-recognized, and their mobile app helps locate in-network facilities with direct billing capability.
In Europe, AXA's French heritage shows—exceptional hospital relationships across the continent. In Asia, direct billing works well at major hospitals but may require more advance coordination than regional specialists.
Now Health Direct Billing
Now Health has cultivated deep relationships with hospitals across Asia and Middle East. Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai, and Bangkok hospitals know them well—often providing smoother direct billing than larger global insurers.
Outside their core markets, direct billing is available but less consistent. European or American hospitals may require upfront payment with reimbursement, though Now Health processes these claims quickly.
Regional Strengths
Location matters significantly in this comparison. Here's how each insurer performs by region:
Europe (France, UK, Germany, Spain)
Winner: AXA Global — AXA's French headquarters means exceptional European coverage. Direct billing at virtually every major hospital. French regulatory oversight provides additional consumer protections.
Hong Kong & Singapore
Winner: Now Health — Now Health's home territory. Superior hospital relationships, faster claims processing, and local expertise. The 10-15% price advantage is most significant here.
UAE & Middle East
Winner: Now Health (slight edge) — Both are strong in UAE. Now Health's aggressive regional expansion has built excellent hospital networks. Pricing advantage makes them attractive. AXA is solid but slightly more expensive.
Thailand & Southeast Asia
Winner: Now Health — Traditional Chinese Medicine coverage appeals in this region. Strong Bangkok hospital relationships. Better pricing for the budget-conscious Southeast Asia market.
China (Mainland)
Winner: Now Health — Now Health's Hong Kong base and Chinese-speaking staff make mainland China their strength. Better hospital relationships in tier-1 cities. Smoother navigation of the Chinese healthcare system.
United States
Winner: AXA Global (if needed) — Neither specializes in US coverage, but AXA's larger global network handles US needs better. If frequent US coverage is important, consider Cigna Global instead.
Claims Experience
Both insurers have solid claims processing reputations. The experience differs based on where you're located and how you submit claims.
AXA Global Claims
- Submission: App, portal, email, mail
- Processing time: 5-10 business days
- Reimbursement: Multiple currency options
- Languages: 15+ languages
- 24/7 support: Yes, global service line
AXA's mobile app is polished and handles claims well. Multi-currency reimbursement is useful for travelers. Their global service line operates around the clock with multilingual support.
Now Health Claims
- Submission: App, portal, email
- Processing time: 5-7 business days
- Reimbursement: USD, HKD, or local currency
- Languages: English, Chinese, Arabic
- Support hours: Extended hours (Asia-focused)
Now Health's Asia-based claims team processes quickly with good communication. Members report responsive support and fast turnaround within their core markets. Not 24/7 but covers Asian business hours well.
Both perform well: Neither has significant claims complaints. In Asia, Now Health often processes faster due to local operations. AXA's global infrastructure means more consistent experience worldwide. Choose based on location, not claims reputation.
Get personalized quotes from both providers
Compare actual pricing for your specific situation—age, location, coverage needs, and family size.
Compare Quotes NowWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
Pre-existing Conditions
Both insurers require medical underwriting and take similar approaches to pre-existing conditions. Full disclosure is required with either.
AXA Global Approach
- • Full medical underwriting
- • Case-by-case evaluation
- • May exclude, load premium, or add waiting periods
- • Moratorium option available
- • Typically 24-month wait for pre-existing coverage
Now Health Approach
- • Medical underwriting required
- • Individual assessment
- • Exclusions or premium loading possible
- • Generally 24-month wait for pre-existing
- • Some flexibility for group plan transitions
Important: Always disclose pre-existing conditions completely. Non-disclosure can void your entire policy. Both insurers investigate claims related to pre-existing conditions, and denied claims due to non-disclosure are common industry-wide.
Real-World Scenarios
Here's how each insurer typically performs in common expat situations:
French Manager in Singapore
40-year-old, married with one child. Will return to France in 4 years. Wants quality coverage that works in both countries.
→ AXA Global Comfort — French insurer for French expat makes sense. Excellent Singapore coverage plus seamless France transition when returning. Worth the modest premium over Now Health for this situation.
Australian Family in Hong Kong
Family of 4, parents age 38. Settled in Hong Kong for foreseeable future. Budget matters with expensive school fees.
→ Now Health WorldCare Classic — Hong Kong is Now Health's home turf. 10-15% savings adds up significantly for a family. Superior local hospital relationships. Kids' coverage is comprehensive.
British Consultant in Dubai
45-year-old, single, travels frequently to Europe for work. Needs coverage that works well in both regions.
→ Either works—compare quotes — Both are strong in UAE with good European coverage. AXA's larger network may help with European travel. Now Health's pricing may tip the balance. Get actual quotes.
Canadian Retiree in Thailand
62-year-old couple, uses both Western medicine and acupuncture. Fixed retirement income, price-sensitive.
→ Now Health WorldCare Classic — TCM coverage is valuable for their lifestyle. Better pricing for retirees on fixed income. Strong Bangkok hospital network. Savings significant at this age.
German Entrepreneur in Shanghai
35-year-old, healthy, building a business in China. Needs reliable coverage in a complex healthcare market.
→ Now Health WorldCare Classic — Mainland China is Now Health's strength. Chinese-speaking support staff. Better hospital relationships in Shanghai. Navigating Chinese healthcare is easier with regional expertise.
Couple with Pre-existing Conditions
Both 52, one has managed hypertension. Moving to UAE for a 5-year assignment.
→ Get quotes from both — Underwriting will determine actual pricing. Both handle hypertension similarly with waiting periods. The 10-15% price difference may narrow or widen based on your specific health profile.
Who Should Choose Which
Choose AXA Global If You:
- ✓ Are based in Europe or French-speaking regions
- ✓ Value French regulatory protection
- ✓ Need the largest possible provider network
- ✓ Travel between Europe and Asia frequently
- ✓ Want 24/7 multilingual support
- ✓ Prefer multi-currency payment flexibility
- ✓ Value included wellness programs
Choose Now Health If You:
- ✓ Are based in Asia/Middle East long-term
- ✓ Want 10-15% lower premiums
- ✓ Value Traditional Chinese Medicine
- ✓ Want enhanced mental health coverage
- ✓ Prefer regional expertise over global scale
- ✓ Are in Hong Kong, Singapore, or mainland China
- ✓ Want higher annual coverage maximums ($2.6M)
Final Verdict
AXA Global Healthcare and Now Health International are both competent international health insurers. The choice is primarily geographic—where you live determines which one serves you better.
AXA Global is the better choice for Europe-based expats, those who value French regulatory oversight, or people who travel frequently between Europe and Asia. Their massive network and global infrastructure justify the modest price premium.
Now Health is the smarter choice for Asia and Middle East expats who want quality coverage at better prices. Their regional expertise, TCM coverage, and enhanced mental health benefits make them well-suited for their core markets.
The price difference between these two is smaller than with premium insurers like Cigna or Bupa. If you're in a region where both perform well (UAE, Singapore), get quotes from both—the actual numbers may make the decision clear.
Bottom Line
AXA Global for European coverage and global network scale. Now Health for Asia/Middle East value and regional expertise. Both are reliable—match their strengths to your location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AXA Global the same as AXA PPP?
No. AXA Global Healthcare serves international expats worldwide. AXA PPP is a UK-specific product for domestic UK residents. If you're an expat outside the UK, you want AXA Global Healthcare.
Can I switch between AXA and Now Health?
Yes, but you'll undergo new underwriting. Pre-existing conditions may be treated as new. Neither insurer guarantees accepting your previous coverage terms. Time your switch carefully, ideally at annual renewal.
Which has better customer service?
AXA offers 24/7 multilingual support with broader language coverage. Now Health provides excellent service during Asian business hours with English, Chinese, and Arabic support. In Asia, Now Health members often report more responsive service.
What about dental and maternity?
Both offer dental and maternity as optional add-ons with similar pricing and waiting periods (10-12 months for maternity). Neither includes these in base plans. Compare specific add-on costs when getting quotes.
Which mobile app is better?
AXA's app is more feature-rich with wellness tracking, gym finder, and telemedicine integration. Now Health's app handles claims and facility finding well but is less polished. If app experience matters significantly, AXA has the edge.
Should I get quotes from both?
Yes, if you're genuinely considering both. The actual premium for your specific situation may differ from published ranges. Both offer free quotes, and comparing real numbers beats any comparison article.
