Do you plan on relocating to the United States to study? If you do, then you have to enroll in a student health insurance plan. There are some countries that don’t offer universal health care; only private companies provide these health insurance plans. But in the United States, it is different. However, in this blog post, I will be sharing tips for choosing health insurance for international students in the U.S.
In the US, healthcare is very expensive. This is why you need health insurance if you are studying in the U.S. Without health insurance, seeing a doctor can cost you up to $100 USD. Falling sick without health insurance can make you incur lots of debt, which might make you financially handicapped. Most universities offer student insurance plans that are easy to apply for.
Enrolling in student health insurance will save you a lot of money. And some schools in the U.S. usually allow students to select their own health insurance plan.
Why Should I Take Out Healthcare Insurance in the US?
As a student in the U.S., you might think it is not important to get healthcare insurance. But trust me, it is. Medical costs can be overwhelming in the U.S., and you don’t want to be spending all your money on every slight sickness. An X-ray in the US costs about $1000 to $22,000, depending on the area of the body. This is a huge amount of money for an international student.
How Much Does Healthcare Cost in the US for International Students?
This depends largely on the university because they offer a plan for students to enroll in. although it doesn’t just depend on the university but also the state or health background. Generally, health insurance can start at $1,500 to $2,500 annually and increase depending on the added extras and features you might want to plan.
How Does Health Insurance Work in the U.S?
Health providers in the US have a way of operating. They are the ones who pay your medical bills directly to the doctor, clinic, or hospital. Basically, they ensure that you don’t pay anything yourself. Sometimes you will be asked by your insurance provider to pay an excess, which can be up to $100 or more.
And in most cases, the provider usually covers the rest. In addition, clients are asked to fill out claim forms and submit documentation to support their claim. before the insurance company decides whether to pay out the claim or not.
7 Tips for Choosing Health Insurance for International Students in the U.S
As an international student, it is important that you choose the right health insurance. Not just that, you also need health insurance that meets your budget. Finding the right health insurance can be difficult, but it will be easy if you just follow these tips below.
1. Understand Visa Requirements
The first step to finding the right health insurance as an international student is to understand the visa requirements. This is important to ensure that the plan you choose meets or exceeds these requirements. First, you start by getting familiar with the specific health insurance requirements of your F-1 or J-1 visa.
2. Assess your Needs
The second tip is to assess your needs. At this point, you have to take into consideration your health and wallet. Work with your budget and ensure you examine your medical history and any existing medical issues. This will help you find out if you are normally healthy or merely require emergency coverage.
3. Review Coverage Details
Once you are ready to purchase health insurance, you have to carefully go through the coverage details. If you are considering more than one plan, then you have to pay attention to certain factors. Like deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, mental health services, prescription drugs, co-pays, etc.
4. Network of Providers
Always check to see if the insurance plan offers a network of healthcare providers. Most importantly, health providers that are close to your university. Find out if there are healthcare facilities and well-trained doctors. However, you can save money by selecting in-network providers.
5. Cost Considerations
This is the most important tip because, as an international student, you shouldn’t be spending beyond your budget. Compare the costs of different plans, including monthly premiums, deductibles, and any other additional fees. Note that a lower monthly premium may come with high out-of-pocket expenses.
6. Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations
If you find it hard to pick the right health insurance, just read reviews. If you cannot read reviews, then seek recommendations. Look out for reputable insurance providers or ask other international students. You can seek recommendations from university resources that can help you make the right choice.
7. Seek Clarification
Before purchasing, you must seek clarification on an insurance plan you do not understand. You can reach out to insurance providers or university staff to get information.
FAQs
How Can I Find the Right Insurance Plan?
Since most universities offer a good plan to students, you can get information from your university about what is covered. Most universities in the U.S. offer healthcare plans that students have to buy separately. Then others recommend affordable health insurance for their students.
Why is Health Insurance Important for International Students in the United States?
The importance of health insurance for international students cannot be overemphasized. International students need health insurance because it helps cover the high medical costs in the country. Healthcare services in the US are exorbitant, and these students cannot afford them.
