• 24
  Nov
  2009

• University-provided health insurance now protected by health care bill

  
  Filed Under: Health Insurance
  0 comments, add yours

In the previous post, we mentioned how the universal health care bill had completely ignored the student population, and how there wasn't even a mention of this demographic. That oversight seems to have been corrected now, or at least it is included in the bill and is up for debate.

By introducing a new clause in the bill, there is a provision now that will explicitly protect international student health insurance policies. The new clause is to be debated on the Senate floor soon. The earlier omission of this category is now being believed to have been "unintentional".

The wordings of the new clause are: Nothing in this title (or an amendment made by this title) shall be construed to prohibit an institution of higher education (as such term is defined for purposes of the Higher Education Act of 1965) from offering a student health-insurance plan, to the extent that such requirement is otherwise permitted under applicable federal, state or local law.

This seems like a welcome news for the students who now seem to be happy about the change, and the fact that they too are a part of the new "health care for everyone" movement. International student medical insurance might not become too costly after all.

• 23
  Nov
  2009

• Where there is a sea, there could be seasickness

  
  Filed Under: Health Insurance
  0 comments, add yours

The deep blue seas are among the most preferred holiday destinations for everyone - international students included. A cruise is an experience in itself - a complete vacation - filled with all kinds of activities to suit your whim and fancy.

But the waves can bring with them new health challenges - sea-sickness being the most common one. Having a sound international student travel insurance policy is essential to take care of the medical expenditure should sea-sickness turn into something nastier.

It is still unknown why some people get seasick, while others do not. But, first time seafarers are always worried. You have to be there to say for sure if you are not affected by the yawing yacht. And, good health off the sea is no guarantee that you are resistant to illness on it. If the sickness lasts longer, as it sometimes does, it might cause dehydration and related complications.

Rather than trusting your luck and taking a chance that you will not feel queasy on board, get the international student medical insurance. It may not be of any use after all but, isn't it better to err on the side of safety rather than risk?

• 20
  Nov
  2009

• Lack of Student Insurance Might Lead to Non-Medical Complications!

  
  Filed Under: Health Insurance
  0 comments, add yours

Although most colleges require all students to be insured during their study (international students must be enrolled in an international student health insurance plan), colleges are finding it tough to ensure that all students are valid. One university recently issued a statement that more than ten percent of its students are uninsured.

The reasons for this are many: Students submit information of comparable insurance that is not audited for all students, and sometimes, students purchase insurance only to cancel it later. However, living in the United States without insurance can be disastrous, especially for international students.

While uninsured U.S. citizens might be able to get coverage under their parents’ plan, international students must purchase insurance in order to receive medical benefits. If the college-sponsored plan seems too expensive, ensure that you shop around for the best rates.

Remember that the next illness or infection can be lurking just around the corner, and living without insurance, even for a day, can mean several thousand dollars in medical fees. While being uninsured may go undetected, it is a slippery road to take. Colleges could have clauses with punitive action in case of non-compliance, and that could lead to fines or other more serious issues.

• 19
  Nov
  2009

• Insurance Lessens Burden During Study Abroad

  
  Filed Under: Health Insurance
  0 comments, add yours

Europe is the most popular destination for U.S. students participating in study abroad programs, and study abroad insurance will go a long way in making the experience satisfying. Traveling and living in Europe combines the best of two worlds—a first-world experience and awesome travel opportunities.

When shopping for study abroad insurance, remember that some European countries require that you have travel insurance, with certain minimum coverage. Remember that the Schengen visa (which is not required for U.S. citizens) allows you to travel within 25 countries in Europe. However, this excludes the United Kingdom.

Also remember to look for the following coverage in your study abroad coverage: emergency medical care, including, but not limited to ambulance charges, hospitalization, prescription drugs, and repatriation to home country, if medically necessary. You might also want to look for plans that cover baggage loss and trip interruption if your destination calls for it.

Purchasing insurance does not protect you from theft and illness in any way, and it is important to be careful when visiting a foreign country. Make sure to stay up-to-date with your vaccinations and remember to plan for these, as some shots need to be taken up to two weeks in advance of the proposed trip.