Starr’s Critical Illness Advantage Global Connect Review (2022): Access to Worldwide Treatment

Seeking medical treatment from specialists worldwide is now possible with this unique critical illness plan. Here’s a deeper look at how this policy works. 

While Singapore has a world-class healthcare system, the ability to seek a second medical opinion from specialists around the world makes a compelling proposition. 

It’s comprehensible to want the best treatment when you’re dealing with a serious illness such as cancer or heart disease. However, some of these treatments may only be available in other countries, which means only the affluent may be able to afford it. 

Luckily, there’s another option made possible for Singaporeans. Starr’s Critical Illness (CI) Advantage Global not only covers overseas treatment and follow-up medication, but also covers the costs of travel and accommodations. 

This is a unique critical illness plan that serves a very specific purpose and role, but is it right for you? 

Pros and cons

Key features

#1: Second opinion and treatment worldwide for major illnesses

Starr’s CI Advantage Global Connect allows you to seek a second medical opinion and receive treatment overseas for critical illnesses including cancer, heart disease, and stroke. 

The policy covers the cost of medical treatment, travel, and accommodation for you and your partner, as well as follow-up care and medication upon your return. 

Note that this plan does not cover medical expenses incurred in Singapore. Thus, it’s best to have another primary critical illness plan for those who still wish to seek treatment locally. 

Thus, it’s prudent to think of this plan as an add-on that could extend your treatment options. 

#2: Pays out at all stages of cancer, and provides multiple payouts for different illnesses

This plan pays out at all stages of cancer, which can help you get started on treatment as early as possible. 

You are also entitled to multiple payouts for different illnesses under this policy. Payouts for each major illness is limited to 100% of the sum assured.

#3: Renewable up to age 75 with no medical underwriting required

The age of eligibility for this plan is between 18 to 65, and is renewable up to age 75. There is no medical underwriting required for enrollment as you just need to answer five simple questions when applying for this plan. 

The maximum age of cover is not as high as other plans. On the other hand, certain conditions may make it difficult to travel overseas for treatment, especially at advanced ages. 

#4: Family plan available 

There is also a family plan available, which may provide more savings. 

Note that the age of eligibility for children is from 6 months to 18 years old, or 25 years old for full-time students. The maximum benefits payable for each major illness is 50% of the sum assured. 

Important exclusions to note

Before signing up for Starr’s CI Advantage Global connect, take note of the following exclusions.

The policy does not cover:

• Pre-existing conditions
• Major illnesses resulting from
  • War, terrorism, or serving in armed forces
  • Epidemic or pandemic
  • Suicide, self-harm, provoked assault, intoxication, drug abuse, or insanity
• Medical expenses in Singapore, except follow-up care and medication
• Medical treatment involving gene therapy, somatic-cell therapy, tissue-engineered therapy, and CAR T-cell therapy
• Experimental treatment
• Alternative medicine
• Prostheses, except breast and heart valves
• HIV or AIDS

For the full list of exclusions and terms and conditions, please refer to this policy document. 

Plan tiers, premiums, and latest promotions

Starr’s CI Advantage Global Connect is available in three tiers. See the table below for a summary of the key benefits. 

All three tiers offer the same suite of benefits. The only difference between them is the level of critical illness benefits available.

Note that the global medical treatment benefit covers the cost of treatment, travel, and accommodation.  

How much does Starr’s CI Advantage Global Connect cost?

The premiums shown above are for a male non-smoker in his mid-40s. This is merely for illustration purposes, thus your quotation may vary. 

While the premiums quoted here are very affordable, there will likely be a steep increase from age 50 and above. This is in line with other critical illness coverage.   

Promos

Currently, there are no promotions for this policy. This page will be updated should there be any. 

How to make a claim?

If you need to make a claim under this policy, follow these steps. 

1. Go to Starr Insurance’s critical illness claims page
2. Download and fill in the claims form
3. Prepare the necessary documents
4. When ready, submit your claim via 
   1. Email: sgp.AHclaim@starrcompanies.com
   2. Post: 138 Market Street, #16-04, CapitaGreen, Singapore 048946
5. Note that all claims should be submitted within 30 days of the triggering incident
6. Should you require assistance, contact Starr Insurance via
   1. Tel: +65 3158 7515
   2. Email: sgp.AHclaim@starrcompanies.com

Read these next:
Best Travel Insurance Plans And Promotions In Singapore (2021)
Best Travel Insurance In Singapore (2021)
5 Best Ways To Shop for Travel Insurance
Ultimate Guide To Digital Multi-Currency Accounts (2021)
Best Air Miles Credit Cards In Singapore (2021)