Things to know about health insurance before dropping your student off at college

Dropping your student off to college is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a long checklist—dorm essentials, class schedules, meal plans, and yes, health insurance. Making sure your student has the right coverage can give both of you peace of mind as they begin this new chapter. Here are the key things to know regarding health insurance before move-in day arrives.

 

1. Understand Your Current Coverage

If your student is staying on your existing family health plan, check the details first. Many plans cover dependents until age 26, BUT networks can vary by state or region. If your student is going to school far from home, be sure that your plan offers out-of-state coverage. 

2. Review the College’s Student Health Plan

Most colleges offer their own student health insurance plans. It is typically a good idea to compare costs, deductibles, networks, and coverage levels to determine if the school’s plan is a better fit. That said, depending on the situation, a marketplace health plan may still be less expensive and less restrictive than the university's offered health plan. Many of the university-sponsored plans limit coverage to school-only providers, whereas a marketplace plan will give you a more extensive network. 

3. Check for Required Coverage

Some colleges require proof of insurance and automatically enroll students in their school-sponsored plan unless you opt out. If you want to keep your student on your family plan, submit the waiver by the deadline to avoid unnecessary charges. If you need assistance with this waiver, please call our office, and we will be happy to assist with the certificate of coverage. 

4. Look Into Prescription Needs

If your student takes regular medication, check whether your plan’s pharmacy network includes a nearby location. Alternatively, consider setting up mail-order prescriptions so they can receive their refills directly at school

5. Encourage Your Student to Carry Their Insurance Card

Make sure your student has a physical or digital copy of their insurance card, knows how to contact the insurance provider, and understands how to schedule appointments. Help them save these details on their phones for quick access.

6. Teach the fine print of health insurance

Some health insurance policies contain exclusions that may limit or deny coverage for injuries sustained during the commission of a criminal act. The exact language varies by insurer and plan, so reviewing your policy documents is the best way to understand your coverage.

7. Consider Supplemental Coverage

Depending on your student’s activities or health needs, supplemental plans such as accident insurance or travel coverage may be beneficial—especially for athletes or students studying abroad.

Preparing Your Student for a Healthy, Confident Start

A little preparation goes a long way in making sure your student is protected and ready to thrive at college. By reviewing coverage options, understanding campus resources, and openly discussing how to use insurance, you can help set them up for a safe and healthy school year. We are here to help. For more information, give our office a call at (843) 708 - 5469 or (843) 297 - 0335 or schedule an appointment via our website.