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
Highest session limits and most comprehensive rehabilitation coverage. Best for those needing extensive physical therapy or complex rehab programs.
Learn MoreBupa Global
Strong Coverage
Comprehensive rehab with good therapy networks. Strong cardiac and stroke rehabilitation programs with care coordination.
Learn MoreAllianz Care
Basic Coverage
Lower session limits but adequate for basic rehabilitation needs. Best for those with occasional therapy requirements at lower premiums.
Learn MoreSide-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Cigna Global | Bupa Global | Allianz Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapy | Covered (limits vary) | Covered (limits vary) | Limited sessions |
| Inpatient Rehab | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Outpatient Rehab | With outpatient plan | With outpatient plan | Limited |
| Occupational Therapy | Covered | Covered | Some plans |
| Speech Therapy | Covered | Covered | Limited |
| Cardiac Rehab | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Stroke Rehab | Comprehensive | Comprehensive | Basic |
| Annual Session Limit | 30-60 sessions | 25-50 sessions | 15-25 sessions |
Cigna Global
Cigna Global offers the most generous rehabilitation coverage with 30-60 physical therapy sessions annually depending on plan tier. All major therapy types are covered: physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and specialized rehabilitation. Inpatient rehab following surgery or serious illness has no separate limit.
Cardiac rehabilitation programs are comprehensive, typically covering the full recommended course of sessions. Stroke rehabilitation includes both inpatient and outpatient phases with coordination between specialists. For expats recovering from serious injuries or surgeries, Cigna's rehab coverage provides the depth needed for full recovery.
Rehab Strengths
- • Highest annual session limits
- • All therapy types covered
- • Comprehensive cardiac rehab
- • Full stroke recovery programs
- • Good therapist networks
Considerations
- • Requires outpatient plan
- • Higher premium for full benefits
- • Pre-authorization for some
- • Network varies by location
Bupa Global
Bupa Global provides strong rehabilitation coverage with 25-50 sessions annually. Their care coordination stands out—case managers help navigate complex rehabilitation programs, coordinating between surgeons, therapists, and specialists. This is valuable for stroke recovery or post-surgical rehabilitation.
Cardiac rehabilitation is a particular strength, with partnerships with leading cardiac centers. The full recommended program of sessions is typically approved. Occupational and speech therapy are covered without separate sub-limits on comprehensive plans. Network quality in Europe and major global cities is excellent.
Rehab Strengths
- • Excellent care coordination
- • Strong cardiac rehab
- • Good European networks
- • Case management support
- • All therapy types
Considerations
- • Lower limits than Cigna
- • Premium pricing
- • Pre-authorization needed
- • Plan-dependent benefits
Allianz Care
Allianz Care offers more limited rehabilitation coverage—typically 15-25 sessions annually for physical therapy. Inpatient rehabilitation following surgery or hospitalization is covered, but outpatient therapy sessions are restricted. This works for occasional therapy needs but may be insufficient for serious recovery programs.
Speech therapy and occupational therapy coverage is limited or excluded on some plans. Cardiac rehab is covered but may have tighter session limits. For expats who need occasional physical therapy or have straightforward rehabilitation needs, Allianz offers adequate coverage at lower cost. Complex recoveries may require out-of-pocket supplementation.
Rehab Strengths
- • Lower premium costs
- • Inpatient rehab covered
- • Basic PT included
- • Adequate for light needs
- • Clear session limits
Considerations
- • Lowest session limits
- • Speech therapy limited
- • OT may be excluded
- • Not for complex rehab
- • May exhaust limits quickly
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Compare therapy session limits and rehabilitation benefits across providers.
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Pricing Comparison
How rehabilitation coverage affects premiums (individual, 45):
| Plan Type | Cigna Global | Bupa Global | Allianz Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inpatient only | $200/mo | $230/mo | $170/mo |
| With outpatient rehab | $350/mo | $400/mo | $280/mo |
| Comprehensive | $450/mo | $500/mo | $350/mo |
| Enhanced rehab limits | $500/mo | $550/mo | N/A |
*Pricing is indicative. Rehabilitation is typically included in outpatient coverage, not priced separately. Enhanced limits may be available on premium tiers. Actual costs depend on age, location, and health history.
Rehabilitation Coverage Details
Therapy Types Covered
- • Physical therapy (PT)
- • Occupational therapy (OT)
- • Speech and language therapy
- • Cardiac rehabilitation
- • Pulmonary rehabilitation
- • Neurological rehabilitation
Common Exclusions
- • Maintenance therapy (non-progressive)
- • Sports performance enhancement
- • Wellness/fitness programs
- • Long-term custodial care
- • Alternative therapy rehab
- • Cosmetic rehabilitation
When Rehabilitation Is Covered
Post-Surgical
- • Joint replacement
- • Spinal surgery
- • Cardiac surgery
- • Orthopedic procedures
- • Reconstruction
Medical Conditions
- • Stroke recovery
- • Heart attack
- • Traumatic injury
- • Neurological conditions
- • Chronic illness
Injury Recovery
- • Sports injuries
- • Accident recovery
- • Fracture rehabilitation
- • Soft tissue injuries
- • Work-related injuries
Which Is Best For You?
Choose Cigna Global if:
- • You need maximum rehabilitation coverage
- • Complex recovery programs are likely
- • Multiple therapy types may be needed
- • Extensive session limits matter
Choose Bupa Global if:
- • Care coordination is valuable
- • Cardiac rehabilitation is a concern
- • European network quality matters
- • Case management support helps
Choose Allianz Care if:
- • Rehabilitation needs are occasional
- • Budget is the priority
- • Basic PT coverage suffices
- • You are generally healthy
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need pre-authorization for physical therapy?
Often yes, especially for extended courses of treatment. Initial sessions may be approved automatically, but ongoing therapy typically requires authorization with supporting documentation from your physician explaining medical necessity.
What happens when I reach my session limit?
Once you exhaust annual session limits, additional therapy is out-of-pocket until your policy renews. Some insurers allow medical necessity appeals for extended sessions in serious cases. Planning your rehabilitation within limits is important.
Is home-based physical therapy covered?
Usually yes if medically necessary—for example, post-surgical patients who cannot travel to clinics. Home visits from licensed therapists can be covered, though session limits still apply. This typically requires pre-authorization.
Are rehabilitation facilities covered for inpatient stays?
Yes, inpatient rehabilitation facilities are covered when medically necessary—typically following major surgery, stroke, or serious injury. This is separate from outpatient session limits. Length of stay depends on medical necessity and insurer approval.
Disclaimer: Rehabilitation coverage, session limits, and therapy types vary by specific plan and change over time. This comparison represents typical offerings—actual coverage depends on your plan tier and medical necessity. Always verify rehabilitation benefits before enrolling, especially if you anticipate needing extensive therapy.
