Health Care for International Students in the US: Key Considerations

As you begin your journey as an international student in the United States, it’s essential to consider your health care needs. The U.S. health care system can be complex, but with the right knowledge and resources, you can make informed decisions to stay healthy while enjoying a fulfilling academic experience.

US Health Care System and Insurance

The system includes both private and public health care services, insurance networks, and various health insurance providers. By understanding the key components and differences within the health care system, you can choose the options that best meet your needs and avoid unforeseen expenses.

In the United States, healthcare is primarily funded privately. Private insurance plans offer access to a wide range of medical providers and services, typically allowing for quicker access to treatment.

Publicly funded healthcare is available for specific groups, but international students are not eligible for this coverage, as it generally requires U.S. citizenship.

Health Insurance Providers

Health insurance providers act as intermediaries between healthcare providers (hospitals, clinics, etc.) and patients. An insurance network is made up of healthcare providers who have agreements with an insurance company to offer medical care and services to individuals covered under the plan.

When choosing an insurance plan, it’s important to assess the network of providers as well as any potential additional costs that may arise.

Additional (Out-of-Pocket) Costs

Out-of-pocket costs are expenses that you are responsible for paying, as they are not covered by your health insurance policy. These costs can include:

• Deductibles: This is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket for medical services before your insurance coverage begins. For example, if your policy has a $500 deductible, you will be responsible for paying the first $500 of your medical expenses. After that, your health insurance will cover the costs beyond this amount.
• Coinsurance refers to the portion of healthcare expenses that a policyholder must pay after reaching their deductible. It represents a shared financial responsibility between the insurer and the insured individual. For instance, in a health insurance plan with an 80/20 coinsurance arrangement, after the deductible is fulfilled, the insurance provider would pay 80% of the eligible expenses, leaving the policyholder to cover the remaining 20%.
• Copayments for Covered Services: Copayments, or copays, are fixed amounts that policyholders must pay out-of-pocket for specific healthcare services, such as doctor visits, prescriptions, or emergency room visits, at the time the service is provided.
• Costs Not Covered by Insurance: Some health services may not be covered by your insurance, such as specialized or elective treatments (e.g., cosmetic surgery). In these cases, you would be responsible for covering the full cost of the services.

When planning your international education, look at the websites of universities you have an interested in, as they often have detailed information on health insurance requirements and options for international students.

For further information on health insurance for international students in the United States click here