When you’re in college, figuring out how your medical insurance works might not be at the top of your to-do list, but it should be. Getting sick or injured can be stressful enough without having to worry about how you’re going to pay for it. That’s why it’s important to understand what your health insurance covers and how to use it before you need it.
What Plan Are You On?
First, find out what insurance plan you have. Are you covered under a parent or guardian’s plan? Do you have a student health insurance plan through your college? Or did you purchase a private plan on your own? This determines what providers you can see, how much you’ll pay for services and what benefits are included. Once you know your plan, get a copy of your insurance card and keep a photo of it on your phone in case of emergencies.
Know Your Network
Most insurance plans have a “network” of doctors and hospitals that they work with. Visiting an in-network provider usually costs a lot less than going out-of-network. Before making an appointment, call the doctor’s office or check your insurance website to confirm the provider is in-network.
Tip: Many student health centers are considered in-network or even free for students with school insurance.
What Does It Cover?
Some common things insurance typically covers:
– Annual physicals and preventive care (like vaccines)
– Mental health counseling
– Emergency room visits
– Specialist visits (with a referral)
– Prescription medications
But just because something is covered doesn’t mean it’s free. That’s where terms like copays, deductibles and coinsurance come in. A copay is a fixed fee you pay for services, like $20 to see a doctor. A deductible is how much you must pay out-of-pocket each year before your insurance starts helping. Coinsurance means you pay a percentage of the cost (like 20%) even after meeting your deductible.
How to Check Your Benefits
Log into your health insurance account online or call the number on the back of your card. You can usually find a breakdown of what’s covered, how much you’ve paid toward your deductible, a list of in-network providers and costs for services and medications. If you’re unsure, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Insurance representatives are used to explaining things and would rather help you before a surprise bill shows up.
Save Money and Avoid Surprises
– Always bring your insurance card to appointments
– Ask for a cost estimate before getting tests or procedures
– Use urgent care centers instead of the ER for non-life threatening issues
– Look into generic medications, which are often cheaper than brand names
– Keep an emergency savings fund in case you need to pay for a deductible or unexpected care
You’re in Charge
Understanding your health insurance now helps you make smarter, cheaper decisions when you need care. It also sets you up for life beyond college. Knowing how to navigate healthcare is just as important as managing a budget or credit card. Don’t wait until you’re sick to figure it all out. Take control, ask questions and be your own health advocate.
Kaylee DeLand can be reached at [email protected].