Interview • Portraits
Member Spotlight | How InterExpat Simplifies Health Insurance for Expats in Singapore
Sébastien Deschamps, Founder of InterExpat, shares his journey for providing tailored health insurance solutions to expatriates in Singapore
What inspired you to create InterExpat?
Fifteen years ago, I launched my first company in Singapore with the goal of making life easier for expatriates worldwide. Through my own experience and interactions with the expat community, I saw how complex and frustrating it was to navigate health insurance options. Many expats struggled with limited coverage, unclear policies, and a lack of local expertise. This inspired me to create InterExpat—a dedicated health insurance advisory service that simplifies the process, providing clear, tailored solutions to expatriates in Singapore.
What are some common challenges expatriates face with health insurance, and how does InterExpat help address them?
Expatriates often face several issues with health insurance:
- Insufficient Coverage – Many employer-provided plans lack essential benefits like maternity or dental but most importantly often sufficient limits for hospitalisations.
- High Costs – International health insurance can be expensive, and many expats are unaware of cost-saving options like co-payments or deductibles.
- Complexity & Fine Print – Understanding exclusions, pre-existing condition coverage, and reimbursement processes can be overwhelming.
- Limited Local Support – Many providers lack on-the-ground support in Singapore, making claims and policy adjustments frustrating.
InterExpat simplifies this by offering personalised advice and ongoing support to ensure expats get the right coverage without unnecessary costs. Having had already 15 years experience in the field, including previously on products from Europe (i.e. CFE etc.) this helps me provide guidance locally that is holistic.
What key trends are shaping the health insurance sector?
The international health insurance market continues to grow despite challenges in global mobility. Rising costs and changing customer expectations are reshaping pricing, coverage, and product offerings.
1. Rising Healthcare Costs
- Medical inflation in Singapore (and globally) is driving insurers to refine cost-containment strategies.
- Double-digit premium increases are making price sensitivity a key concern, even among affluent customers.
- Insurers are introducing targeted, budget-friendly products to meet evolving demand.
2. Shift Toward Preventive Healthcare
- More policies now include wellness programs, routine health screenings, and mental health support.
3. Demand for Personalised & Modular Plans
- Customers seek greater flexibility with customizable coverage options tailored to individual needs.
InterExpat stays ahead of these trends by leveraging digital advisory tools to help expatriates navigate an increasingly complex insurance landscape.
As a member of the French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (FCCS), what opportunities have you found most valuable?
Being part of the French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (FCCS) has provided valuable networking opportunities and industry insights. Events and roundtables connect me with entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and key players in the expatriate ecosystem. The Chamber also fosters collaborations, helping me refine InterExpat’s offerings while staying ahead of market trends.
As a member of the CEO Tech Club, I have particularly benefited from discussions on AI, machine learning, and tech-driven business strategies. The exchange of ideas within this dynamic group has been invaluable in shaping forward-thinking approaches.
Merci à Carine et toute l’équipe !
