Expat employees say their health deteriorates when on assignments abroad

While the majority of expats have found wealth and happiness since moving abroad, their health levels can suffer as a result

According to Bupa International, almost half (44%) of expatriates believe the standard of healthcare is worse in their new country and one in five – equivalent to around 38 million expats worldwide - believes that their health has deteriorated since moving abroad.

The research also shows the countries where people would most like to be treated given the choice. Topping the table is Singapore (23%), followed by the US (15%), South Africa (10%) and the UK (10%).

 Sneh Khemka, medical director for Bupa International, said: "These findings are very interesting – while Singapore is seen to have the best healthcare by nearly a quarter of expats, the truth is that while there are many excellent hospitals in Singapore, the quality of healthcare available there varies, like it does in every country around the world. Therefore, it’s very important to have access to expert medical advice when living abroad to be sure that you are going to be directed to the most appropriate facilities, whichever country you’re in."