Health insurance options for college students vary widely and can be difficult to decipher. Many colleges require their students to have health insurance, whereas some actually offer students free medical services. Students and parents of students should examine their options thoroughly to find the health insurance solution that fits their budget and lifestyle.
College Health Insurance Plans
Most colleges have a health insurance plan that students can enroll in to receive health care through the university. Occasionally, this health care will extend to off-campus health providers as well. According to Health Insurance Finders, many colleges automatically enroll their students in the college's health plan and assess a health fee. This plan usually gives students access to on-campus health services at little or no additional cost to the student. Some colleges who assess this health fee give students the option of declining the college's health plan if they can show proof of health insurance through other means.
Health Insurance Through Parents
Many students are eligible for health insurance through their parents' employers at little or no cost. Requirements vary by employer and insurance company. Some companies stop insuring children when they turn 18, but many continue coverage through the age of 25 or beyond as long as the dependent child is unmarried and is a full-time student.
Health Insurance Through Employers
Texas Health Options recommends that students who are employed seek insurance through their employer, as this is often one of the most cost-effective options. Employer health insurance plans may not provide access to on-campus health providers, but has other benefits such as all-year coverage, coverage during vacations and a wider variety of health insurance providers.
Individual Health Insurance
People who can't get insurance from their college, parent's employer or personal employer often seek coverage from a private insurance provider. This is one of the most expensive options, and it often requires a medical evaluation to screen for any pre-existing conditions. Individual coverage can be tailored to the individual's needs and can provide as much or as little coverage as necessary at different pricing levels.
Medicaid
According to Texas Health Options, Medicaid is a federally funded health insurance option for needy students or students with certain special circumstances. Students on welfare automatically qualify for Medicaid. Pregnant students, exceptionally needy students, people with high medical bills that they can't pay and foster children are also eligible in some circumstances. The Department of Health and Human Services determines student eligibility for Medicaid.
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