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If there was a silver lining to the COVID-19 era, it is the acceleration of flexible working trends, shifting the possibilities for the way we work. As international borders reopen, we have received a growing number of questions from businesses whose employees are stretching the definition of remote work and moving abroad (temporarily and permanently), and who are curious about what this means for their insurance responsibilities.
Depending on the country, duration of stay, insurer, and terms and conditions of the Policy Wording, answers to these questions will vary. This article outlines some of the key considerations for businesses to discuss with their insurance broker prior to approving international working arrangements to ensure policies are fit for purpose and risks are proactively managed.
1. Will our Corporate Travel policy provide overseas medical expense cover for my employee? If so, does this extend to COVID-related illnesses? If not, what are the alternatives?
Over the past 12-18 months, many insurers operating in the Corporate Travel space have excluded overseas medical expense cover arising from COVID-19 related illnesses. Honan has access to several key markets offering this cover. This is especially important as travel resumes and the COVID situation evolves.
2. What risk mitigation procedures does the insurer expect to be implemented by the business and the employee to avoid COVID?
Insurers expect the following practices to be implemented to limit risk:
a. Monitor travel and COVID advice for all relevant locations
b. Observe the relevant entry/exit COVID testing requirements
c. Maintain discipline around social distancing, wearing masks, frequent handwashing, etc.
d. Ensure the employee is fully vaccinated (including boosters, as required).
3. What is the maximum duration of any trip allowed under the Corporate Travel policy and are the trip numbers declared to the insurer at renewal still adequate?
Restrictions on travel over the last two years could mean your policy only permits a small number of trips. It is important to check the declared trip numbers are adequate now that travel restrictions have been eased. Find out more about ensuring your Corporate Travel policy is fit for purpose in this simple guide.
4. If the employee is permanently residing overseas, does insurance need to be obtained locally?
Depending on the country of residence, the rules and regulations outlining how and where insurance is to be obtained will differ. Check with your insurer that the policy administered from Australia will provide worldwide coverage and that the country of residence accepts “non-admitted” policies. If permanently residing overseas, accessing private health insurance or the Medicare equivalent may provide the necessary coverage.
5. Will any medical expenses be covered under Workers' Compensation?
Typically, Workers' Compensation Schemes provide coverage to Australian workers and will only pay expenses to locally registered providers. It is important to ensure the Corporate Travel or Expatriate policy will respond in the event of an accident or illness whilst overseas. It is not until the employee returns to Australia and receives ongoing medical attention that the Workers’ Compensation Scheme may respond.
Cover for business and private travel for certain employees for trip durations of up to 180 days. Depending on the policy, cover for the following may be provided: medical, cancellation and disruption, baggage and travel documents, accidental death, and rental vehicle excess. Find out more about ensuring your Corporate Travel policy is fit for purpose in this simple guide.
Cover for medical expenses and assistance whilst working in an overseas country, particularly where the duration of stay exceeds 180 days. Depending on the policy, this may also extend to maternity cover, emergency transport, and other benefits including dental and optical.
Whether you’re an existing Honan client or considering whether your cover is right for you, please reach out at any time.
Nathan Mauriello - Client Executive
nathan.mauriello@honan.com.au
