Health Insurance Articles

Healthcare Options For College Students

2010-05-26

Health Insurance quotes for college students are varied. Family Insurance Plans, Health savings accounts, high deductable health coverage, short term coverage, college health care plans and COBRA are just a few types of plans that offer health insurance quotes available to college students.

Family Insurance Plans

Children that are in school at least part-time can often remain covered on their parents plan until they reach the age of 21.

Health Savings accounts

Individual coverage plans with a deductible over $1,000; a health savings account is an option. Money can be put away in a tax free health savings account to cover medical expenses. It is an option that covers major hospitalization and may be more feasible than purchasing a less affordable plan.

High-deductible health insurance

Insurance plans with a high deductible can cost as little as $50 - $100 per month. Preventative care and prescription drugs are not covered; however, it will save you from major financial catastrophe

Short term coverage

Ideal for temporary situations that require coverage, short term coverage is usually active for twelve months or so. Private insurance providers, or Alumni Associations, offer short term coverage. Flexible by design, these plans often all the insured party to pay by the month or pro-rate the fee for a shorter time frame. Pre-existing conditions are not usually covered and can't be renewed. Plan terms may vary by provider.

University Health Plans.

College plans vary quite a bit in cost and in what options they offer. Plans coverage areas vary and may cease during holiday and summer breaks. It is important to know when and where you are covered if choosing this option.

Cobra

Adult children are covered under COBRA on existing plans for up to thirty six months after they would normally be dropped. Pricing remains the same to the individual as offered to the employee. Usually the employer would match the fee paid, often making this option expensive and out of reach for college students and recent grads. One advantage COBRA provides is that it covers pre-existing conditions and can offer the same benefits that were originally provided under a family insurance plan.

Remaining on the family insurance plan is a best choice for many college students simply based on continued coverage, familiarity of choice with doctors, and pricing. This is the perfect time for students to plan their health care choices by evaluating their needs, obtaining health insurance quotes and working together with health insurance providers to meet their needs. The more research you do beforehand, the better the outcome will be. It's extremely important to look at all the options available before deciding on any policy.