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
Cigna Global
Best Overall Outpatient
Most comprehensive outpatient coverage with unlimited specialists, best physiotherapy limits, and full prescription coverage.
Learn MoreBupa Global
Best Direct Billing
Excellent outpatient network with seamless direct billing at clinics worldwide. Premium service experience.
Learn MoreAllianz Care
Best Value
Good outpatient coverage at the most competitive price. Solid choice for budget-conscious expats.
Learn MoreSide-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Cigna Global | Bupa Global | Allianz Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| GP Visits | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Specialist Visits | Unlimited | Unlimited | Subject to limits |
| Diagnostic Tests | Full coverage | Full coverage | Good coverage |
| Physiotherapy | Up to 30 sessions | Up to 25 sessions | Up to 20 sessions |
| Prescription Drugs | Full coverage | Full coverage | Copay may apply |
| Direct Billing | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| Outpatient Surgery | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Annual Limits | Unlimited | Unlimited | Plan dependent |
Cigna Global
Cigna Global offers the most comprehensive outpatient coverage in the market. Unlimited GP and specialist visits mean you never worry about hitting caps when managing ongoing health needs. Their prescription drug coverage is full, with no copays on most plans—particularly valuable if you take regular medications.
Physiotherapy limits are the highest at 30 sessions per year, beneficial for expats recovering from injuries or managing chronic pain. Direct billing works at thousands of clinics worldwide, so you rarely pay out of pocket for routine outpatient care.
Outpatient Strengths
- • Unlimited specialist visits
- • Full prescription drug coverage
- • 30 physio sessions/year
- • Extensive direct billing network
- • No annual outpatient limits
Considerations
- • Higher premiums than Allianz
- • Outpatient adds significant cost
- • Some regions have limited clinics
- • Prior authorization for some treatments
Bupa Global
Bupa Global's outpatient coverage emphasizes quality and convenience. Their direct billing network focuses on premium clinics and medical centers, ensuring high standards wherever you seek care. Unlimited GP and specialist visits provide flexibility for ongoing health management.
The Bupa app makes finding outpatient providers simple, with quality ratings and direct booking available. Full prescription coverage with pharmacy finder integration streamlines the medication process. Physiotherapy is covered up to 25 sessions annually.
Outpatient Strengths
- • Premium clinic network
- • Excellent direct billing
- • App-based provider search
- • Full prescription coverage
- • Quality-focused provider selection
Considerations
- • Highest outpatient premiums
- • 25 physio sessions (vs Cigna's 30)
- • Some locations limited options
- • Premium pricing for premium service
Allianz Care
Allianz Care offers solid outpatient coverage at the most accessible price point. GP visits are unlimited, though specialist visits may have annual limits depending on your plan level. This makes Allianz attractive for generally healthy expats who primarily need routine care.
Prescription coverage includes modest copays on some plans—typically €5-20 per prescription. Physiotherapy is covered up to 20 sessions, adequate for most needs. Direct billing is available but not as extensive as Cigna or Bupa; expect to pay and claim for some visits.
Outpatient Strengths
- • Most affordable outpatient option
- • Unlimited GP visits
- • Good diagnostic coverage
- • Flexible plan customization
- • Adequate for routine care
Considerations
- • Specialist limits on some plans
- • Prescription copays may apply
- • 20 physio sessions (lowest)
- • Less direct billing coverage
Compare Outpatient Coverage Quotes
Get personalized quotes with outpatient benefits from all three providers.
Get Free QuotesWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
Pricing Comparison
Outpatient coverage significantly increases premiums—but provides daily-use value:
| Profile | Cigna Global | Bupa Global | Allianz Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inpatient only (35) | $180-250/mo | $200-280/mo | $150-220/mo |
| Inpatient + Outpatient (35) | $320-420/mo | $360-480/mo | $280-370/mo |
| Full coverage family | $950-1,250/mo | $1,050-1,400/mo | $820-1,100/mo |
| Outpatient add-on cost | +$140-170/mo | +$160-200/mo | +$130-150/mo |
*Adding outpatient coverage typically increases premiums by 60-80%. Consider whether routine care needs justify the cost.
Outpatient Coverage Details
What's Typically Included
- • GP consultations and visits
- • Specialist consultations
- • Diagnostic tests (blood, imaging)
- • Prescription medications
- • Physiotherapy
- • Outpatient surgery
- • Mental health consultations
Inpatient vs Outpatient
Understanding the difference:
- • Inpatient: Overnight hospital stays, surgery requiring admission
- • Outpatient: Same-day visits, no overnight stay
- • Many plans cover inpatient only—add outpatient for full coverage
- • Outpatient is your "everyday" coverage
Therapies & Rehabilitation
Sessions included in outpatient coverage:
Cigna
30 physio sessions, speech therapy, occupational therapy included. Chiropractic and osteopathy on some plans.
Bupa
25 physio sessions, complementary therapies on premium plans. Acupuncture may be covered.
Allianz
20 physio sessions standard. Alternative therapies typically excluded or add-on.
Which Is Best For You?
Choose Cigna Global if:
- • You want the most comprehensive outpatient coverage
- • Full prescription coverage without copays matters
- • You may need extensive physiotherapy
- • Unlimited specialist visits are important
Choose Bupa Global if:
- • Direct billing convenience is a priority
- • You value premium clinic access
- • Quality of providers matters more than quantity
- • You want app-based provider search
Choose Allianz Care if:
- • Budget is a significant consideration
- • You're generally healthy with routine needs
- • Basic outpatient coverage is sufficient
- • You're comfortable with occasional reimbursement
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need outpatient coverage or just inpatient?
It depends on your health needs and risk tolerance. Inpatient-only plans cost 40-50% less but mean you pay cash for GP visits, prescriptions, and routine care. If you're healthy and building savings locally works, inpatient-only may suffice. For comprehensive coverage including everyday healthcare, add outpatient.
How does direct billing work for outpatient visits?
At network clinics, you show your insurance card and the clinic bills your insurer directly—you pay nothing (or just copays). Not all clinics participate; check your insurer's provider finder before appointments. For non-network providers, you pay upfront and submit claims for reimbursement.
Are routine check-ups and preventive care included?
Outpatient coverage typically includes diagnostic tests ordered by your doctor. Annual wellness exams and preventive screenings may require a wellness add-on or be included in comprehensive plans. Check your specific policy for preventive care details.
What's the claims process for out-of-network outpatient care?
You pay the provider directly, then submit the receipt and diagnosis codes via app or portal. All three insurers have online claims submission. Reimbursement typically takes 5-15 business days. Keep all receipts and request itemized bills for smooth processing.
Disclaimer: Insurance pricing and coverage details change frequently. Outpatient benefits vary by plan level and region. Always verify specific coverage directly with providers before purchasing. This comparison is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or insurance advice.
