Lost in translation: Why navigating U.S. health care is so hard—and what you can do about it

Complexity at every turn

The U.S. health care system is one of the most advanced in the world, but also one of the most complicated. International patients face a unique set of hurdles:

• Unfamiliar terminology and processes
• Difficulty identifying high-quality, in-network providers
• Lack of transparency around costs and coverage
• Logistical challenges with travel, documentation and follow-up care
• Limited support navigating care across borders

These barriers can delay treatment, increase costs and negatively impact outcomes, not to mention the emotional toll on patients and their families.

Healthcare Navigation Services by UnitedHealthcare Global

Enter Healthcare Navigation Services—a comprehensive, end-to-end solution designed specifically to support international patients seeking care in the U.S.

This service simplifies the entire health care journey, offering:

Integrated support: From provider referrals and registration to appointment scheduling, medical records coordination and transportation arrangements we manage every detail with precision and care.

Personalized guidance: Patients receive tailored information based on their condition, provider and treatment location—so they know what to expect and feel supported throughout.

Seamless case management: We coordinate between home-country care teams and U.S. providers to ensure continuity, clarity and confidence in every decision.

24/7 emergency support: Our global Emergency Response Center is always on—ready to assist with urgent needs, travel disruptions or clinical questions.

Clear case visibility: Clients get full visibility into open and closed cases, claims inventory and provider utilization—helping reduce cancellations and improve efficiency.

Why it matters

With over 20 years of experience and access to a network of 2.1 million+ providers, UnitedHealthcare Global delivers more than just access, we deliver compassionate care and end-to-end seamless support.  

Whether you're an insurer looking to enhance member experience, an employer supporting globally mobile employees, or a government agency managing cross-border care, Healthcare Navigation Services is your trusted expert.