Health Coverage 101 For Parents and Students
Figuring out what to do about health insurance for college students is one of the more challenging – and essential – tasks faced by parents and soon-to-be first-year students as they start their collegiate journey. Going to college without health insurance is not only unwise, but most four-year universities actually require their students to have coverage as a condition of attendance.
While we can’t help you find your way around campus, what we can do is help you find and understand the options available for health insurance for college students and factors to consider when choosing the plan best suited to your needs and budget. Here are six potential ways students can obtain coverage that will protect their health, well-being, and finances as they move into their dorms.
Stay on Parents’ Health Insurance Coverage
Thanks to rules under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), many college students can stay on their parent’s health insurance coverage until they turn 26. While this option is often the most affordable and familiar for the student and their parents, it may no longer be workable if the student goes to college far from home and the plan has a limited network that does not extend to the area where they will be living.
Enroll in One Of The School’s Health Insurance Plans
Many universities offer plans for health insurance for college students specifically tailored to address the needs of students. As noted, most colleges require students to have health coverage of some kind, and if a student declines a college-sponsored plan, they will likely need to provide proof of coverage under another plan.
College-sponsored plans come with advantages and disadvantages. They do have networks that provide plenty of provider options around campus, and they typically include access to on-campus health centers and are usually quite affordable. But, benefits may vary between schools and different plans offered by a school, especially as to coverage during summer breaks or when students are abroad or far from campus.
Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System
Arizona students who are from low-income families may be eligible for coverage under the state-sponsored Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCC). Eligibility for AHCCC is determined by income and other factors. These programs may significantly reduce the financial burden of healthcare if you or your student qualify.
ACA Marketplace Plans
Students 18 and older who don’t qualify for AHCCC or can’t/don’t want to stay on their parent’s plan can purchase coverage on their own through one of the health insurance marketplaces established by the ACA, also known as Obamacare. While some states have established their own marketplaces, many others – including Arizona – use the federal marketplace – healthcare.gov. Marketplace plans offer a range of options for health insurance for college students with varying premiums, deductibles, and copays. Students with limited financial means may be able to qualify for subsidies that can significantly reduce the cost of coverage.
Related Reading: The Secret to Finding Affordable Healthcare: Your Guide to the Lease Expensive Health Insurance Plans
Items to Consider When Choosing Health Insurance For College Students
As you explore different coverage options, consider the following issues:
Scope of Coverage Network
Whichever avenue you choose for coverage, the plan needs to include a robust network of providers near the campus. Access to nearby doctors and medical facilities can be essential for college students with emergencies and routine health care.
Essential Benefits
All ACA-compliant plans for health insurance for college students provide essential benefits, including preventive services, mental health care, prescription drugs, and emergency services. If a plan does not include these vital services, it may leave a student without the help they need to stay healthy or address issues when they arise.
Premiums and Deductibles
Cost is critical for anyone seeking health insurance coverage, especially for college students out on their own for the first time. Compare the monthly premiums, deductibles, copays, and other out-of-pocket costs between different coverage options to find the right balance between affordable monthly payments and manageable deductibles.
In-Network vs. Out-of-Network Coverage
Understand the differences between in-network and out-of-network coverage. Insurers negotiate lower rates with in-network providers, and obtaining care through those providers can cost substantially less than seeing an out-of-network physician.
Let Our Experts Help You Find The Health Insurance for Your College Student
Whether you are searching for health insurance for college students, or your school days are far behind you, and you need coverage for the next stage of your life, Arizona Health Insurance Experts Arizona can help. We will connect you with the state’s most extensive collection of independent insurance agents and brokers who can help you obtain the right coverage for you and your situation. Find a broker near you today.
