Medical for Pre existing Illnesses [Dubai]

[si jet]

Hi Guys,

This is a not easy topic for me to discuss in the Pprune world, but here goes! I have a selection coming up with EK and I am looking for proper and valid advice on Medical cover for my spouse who is under going treatment for cancer. If, successful we are looking at moving to Dubai in 2011, and we are fully aware that the EK Medical coverage does NOT covering pre existing conditions like this.

Has anyone who has joined EK, either recently or in the distant past, had their spouse with a pre-existing condition require either private medical cover, or was the only option to return to your home country for continued treatment?

We are currently living in the UK and all the treatment is covered, but are there any private medical insurance or hospitals in Dubai that can be used for referals or continued treatment? We haven't spoken to EK yet, as let's get through the Selection first, but I would be so grateful, either from the guys who have experienced this situation or know people who have! Again, due to the up setting nature of this post, would people just PM please!

Once again thank you!

[varigflier]

Hi si jet,

I don't know the answer to your question but I would like to wish your wife and you good luck and I hope you guys make it through.

VF

[BritishGuy]

I wish you and your Mrs the best with the big 'C' treatment.

I have an interview coming up with EK and my wife is a type 1 diabetic (insulin dependent). Thankfully in the US we had good insurance and it covered her for mostly everything (with minimal out of pocket). We're not sure what the deal will be with EK. We've worked out the cost of supplies (out of pocket) and it's working out to be reasonable - we've looked into BUPA, Blue cross/blue shield, Aetna Global and other medical insurances and they won't cover her (and she has a common illness). I'm under the impression you'll be on your own with this one.

Don't let it put you off - BA have just opened up their doors. If you find EK may be too restricting, you can try your luck with BA (and I hope you get it!)

[pool]

All our best wishes for your wife.


The sad truth is that anything we could contribute to this topic is just as meaningless as anything the EK representatives of any level will or can give you.
The goal posts change unilateraly and almost on a monthly base and if it costs something only to the employees detriment.
Do not trust any statement. Even if it is in written, contracts are only for decoration in this part of the world.

If you can, stay in the UK.

[Pitch Up Authority]

The first goal of EK clinic is cost management. There are cases were they commited in writing to pay the bills and did absolutely nothing.

[flygirl319320]

It usually works better in smaller companies. I used to work for flag carrier in a small country in Europe and what we did was to organize through intranet who would like to give a contribution for certain person to help.

the best was to go with small amounts like two coffees price but when You get a lot of people adopting the idea it works.

also for more expensive treatment we said to anyone to sign how much from salary and for how long and it also worked. Usually people starting this would be chief pilots via cabin staff and Union who would organize all the actions better.
The best thing is to get inside, inform Yourself and try via someone. If they do not support You can always resign with a good reason.

Good luck for You both.

[777boyindubai]

Hi Si Jet,

Very sorry to hear your news and I am sure all of us wish you well.

Money aside, please let me tell you that the provision of cancer care is VERY poor in Dubai and reasonable in Abu Dhabi.

American Hospital are starting to offer care in this field, but, there isn't enough feedback to know how good things are yet. This information comes from the EK clinic.

The care in Abu Dhabi is done primarly at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City. Maybe you could contact them directly?

EK definetly won't cover her care as it is pre-existing.

I hope this short note is a little help to you.

God Bless.

[777boyindubai]

gulfnews : Insurance coverage can add to concerns over cancer (http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/health/insurance-coverage-can-add-to-concerns-over-cancer-1.699918)

[si jet]

777FlyDubaiBoy,

Thank you very mate for the information.

Very much appreciated here! Does anyone know if the 'Government Health Card' in the UAE covers pre existing conditions or not! I can understand private Medical Insurance companies not covering pre existing conditions like my wifes cancer, due to the cost etc.

Once again guys, anymore useful or beneficial information is greatly appreciated.

Cheers.

[777boyindubai]

I am not sure. I will ask a few people and let you know. Wish you well.