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 wellness coverage with comprehensive preventive benefits, digital wellness platform, and integrated health coaching across all regions.
Up to $1,500/yr wellness value
Bupa Global
Strong preventive benefits with good wellness resources and some plans offering gym subsidies. Solid choice for holistic health focus.
Up to $1,200/yr wellness value
Allianz Care
More limited wellness benefits but competitive pricing. Good option if you primarily need medical coverage with basic preventive care.
Up to $800/yr wellness value
Side-by-Side Comparison
Cigna Global
Cigna Global leads in wellness and preventive care with comprehensive benefits across most plan levels. Their digital wellness platform and integrated approach to health management set them apart.
Wellness Strengths
- Annual comprehensive health check included in most plans
- Age-appropriate cancer screenings (mammograms, colonoscopies, etc.)
- Routine and travel vaccinations covered
- Digital wellness platform with health tracking and resources
- Health coaching and chronic disease management programs
- Mental wellness apps and counseling access
Limitations
- Higher premiums than competitors
- Some wellness benefits require higher-tier plans
- Gym memberships not typically covered
- Alternative therapies limited
Bupa Global
Bupa Global provides solid preventive care coverage with good wellness resources. Some plans include unique benefits like gym subsidies that appeal to health-conscious expats.
Wellness Strengths
- Annual health assessments on most comprehensive plans
- Cancer screening coverage following international guidelines
- Bupa wellness resources and health information
- Some plans include gym or fitness subsidies
- Preventive dental care included in comprehensive plans
- Health coaching available for chronic conditions
Limitations
- Travel vaccinations may have limitations
- Digital wellness platform less developed than Cigna
- Gym benefits only on select plans
- Lower wellness benefit limits than Cigna
Allianz Care
Allianz Care focuses more on medical coverage than wellness, with preventive benefits varying significantly by plan level. Good value if wellness isn't your primary concern.
Wellness Strengths
- Basic preventive care on most plans
- Cancer screenings covered on comprehensive plans
- Competitive pricing for medical + basic preventive
- Flexibility to add wellness benefits as needed
- Preventive care for children typically included
Limitations
- Wellness benefits significantly below competitors
- Preventive dental requires separate add-on
- Limited wellness programs and resources
- Health coaching only on premium plans
- Travel vaccines may not be covered
Prioritize Your Preventive Health
Find a plan that covers annual checkups, screenings, and wellness programs to keep you healthy while living abroad.
Compare Wellness PlansWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
Pricing & Wellness Value
Annual premiums and preventive benefit values for a 40-year-old. Higher plans include more comprehensive wellness benefits.
Wellness benefit value includes annual physicals, screenings, vaccinations, and wellness programs. Actual usage may be lower.
Wellness Coverage Details
Annual Health Checks
Comprehensive health checks typically include physical examination, blood work (cholesterol, blood sugar, liver function), blood pressure monitoring, and basic vision/hearing tests. Cigna offers the most comprehensive assessments. Bupa's vary by plan. Allianz includes basic checkups but may limit frequency or scope.
Cancer Screenings
All three cover age-appropriate cancer screenings following international guidelines. This includes mammograms (typically starting at 40 or 50), colonoscopies (typically starting at 45-50), cervical smears, and prostate screening discussions. Screening frequency follows medical guidelines, not annual automatic coverage.
Vaccinations
Cigna covers both routine vaccinations (flu, tetanus boosters) and travel vaccines (hepatitis, typhoid, yellow fever). Bupa covers routine vaccines with some travel vaccines. Allianz varies—check your specific plan. Routine childhood vaccinations are typically covered on family plans across all providers.
Mental Wellness Programs
Cigna offers digital mental wellness tools, apps, and access to counseling as part of their wellness approach. Bupa provides wellness resources and some mental health support. Allianz's mental wellness is limited unless you have comprehensive mental health coverage added. Consider this if stress and mental health are priorities.
Preventive Dental
Cigna and Bupa include preventive dental (cleanings, checkups, x-rays) in comprehensive plans. Allianz requires a separate dental add-on. Preventive dental is important—regular cleanings prevent more expensive treatments later. If dental wellness matters, factor this into plan comparison.
Best For
Choose Cigna If:
- Wellness is a high priority for you
- You want comprehensive preventive benefits
- Digital health tools appeal to you
- You value health coaching access
- You want travel vaccines covered
Choose Bupa If:
- You want solid preventive benefits
- Gym subsidies interest you
- You prefer European-based wellness approach
- Preventive dental is important
- You want good value for wellness
Choose Allianz If:
- Medical coverage is your priority
- Basic preventive care is sufficient
- Budget is a primary concern
- You'll get checkups locally anyway
- You prefer à la carte wellness options
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I get an annual health check?
Typically once per policy year, sometimes with minimum intervals (e.g., 12 months between checks). Some plans allow more frequent checks if medically indicated. Check your specific plan terms—comprehensive health assessments are usually annual, but individual tests may be available more frequently.
Are wellness benefits in addition to regular medical coverage?
Yes, wellness and preventive benefits have separate limits from your main medical coverage. Using your full wellness benefit doesn't reduce your medical coverage. However, if a preventive test reveals a condition requiring treatment, that treatment uses your medical coverage.
Can I choose where to get my health check?
Generally yes—you can use network providers for direct billing or any licensed provider for reimbursement. Some insurers have preferred wellness centers with streamlined booking. Cigna and Bupa may have specific wellness check facilities in major cities.
Do unused wellness benefits roll over?
No, wellness benefits typically reset each policy year. If you don't use your annual health check or vaccination allowance, they don't accumulate. Schedule your preventive care to maximize the benefits you're paying for in your premium.
What screenings are covered at what ages?
Providers follow international medical guidelines. Generally: cholesterol screening starts in 20s, diabetes screening for at-risk individuals or from age 45, mammograms from 40-50, colonoscopies from 45-50, prostate discussions from 50. Your doctor can advise based on personal risk factors.
Is preventive care worth the higher premium?
It depends on how you use healthcare. If you'll actually get annual checkups and screenings, the value can exceed $1,000/year. If you rarely see doctors, basic coverage may suffice. Preventive care can catch issues early, potentially saving significant costs and health impacts later.
Disclaimer: Wellness and preventive benefits vary by specific plan level and region. This comparison provides general guidance only. Verify current coverage details, benefit limits, and terms directly with providers. Medical screening recommendations should be discussed with your healthcare provider based on your individual health profile.
