Nearly half (44%) of expatriates believe the standard of healthcare is worse in their new country, according to a survey by Bupa International.
One in five, or around 38 million, expats worldwide believe their health has deteriorated since moving abroad.
The research, which was conducted online by 1,034 expatriates, also showed one in five expats would rather be treated outside their country of origin or current residence if they fell seriously ill.
The countries topping the table of where people would most like to be treated given the choice are Singapore (23%), followed by the US (15%), South Africa (10%) and the UK (10%).
Dr 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 is very important to have access to expert medical advice when living abroad to be sure they are going to be directed to the most appropriate facilities, whichever country they are in.”
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