American Insurance in the UK

I just saw this category, and realized I have something of a problem. My husband and I are both American citizens who are here on a three year work permit, so obviously we aren't entitled to NHS healthcare. However, we are covered by a Cigna PPO back in the States. They offer expat services, but I'm not sure how they work, and their website is really not very helpful in clarifying and his company's HR department is even less helpful than that! In other words, I'm really not sure what we should do if we have some kind of health-related emergency.

Does anyone know how American insurance works here? Any input is greatly appreciated!

I'm on a 2 year work permit over here and I'm entitled to free NHS treatment.  I doubt a 3-year permit would be any different.

As I am still partially employeed by a US company, I still have my US healthcare (Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield NJ).  I still go to the dentist when I go home for xmas.  When I first moved here I also used their mail order prescription service to get my medications.  When I have been abroad before, and needed treatment, I went to the hospital, got treatment, paid out of pocket and had to submit all these forms for reimbursement. 

If the website isn't helpful, I'd call Cigna PPO.  Otherwise, I'd bug the HR department until I get answers.  Its their job to get answers for you.  If the company is going to send you to another country, they must take some responsibility for this.

I have the Cigna Expat Plan (though i'm not here as an expat, but a local) and it entitles me to go to any (private/NHS) doctor here without a referral.  The same is true for dentists.  I can also go to doctors/dentists back in the US if I need to as well.

bvamin

Thanks for your replies. I just replied to another post about having Lupus, so honestly, I can't believe its taken me four months to ask this question. I've always just figured that if I got sick, I would just go to the hospital. But, last night it occurred to me that it may not work that way. . . .I totally agree, Meggles, about my husband's company's HR department having a bit of a responsibility. But, as they gave us bad information on the way over which led me to having immigration issues, I don't trust them with anything, unfortunately!

Again, thanks to both of you! Your information has put me at ease!