As an international student studying in Australia, securing health insurance is crucial to your overall well-being and academic success. The Australian government mandates that all student visa holders have health insurance through the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) program. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into all the aspects of health insurance that international students need to know.
What is Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)?
OSHC is a program that provides basic medical coverage for international students studying in Australia. The Australian government requires all student visa holders to enroll in OSHC before arriving in the country.
What Does OSHC Cover?
OSHC covers a range of medical services, including hospital stays, medical consultations, diagnostic tests, and emergency ambulance transportation. They also cover some prescription medication and limited dental treatments, such as root canals and extractions.
It’s important to note that OSHC only covers essential medical services, which means it won’t cover things like cosmetic surgery or alternative therapies like acupuncture.
How Much Does OSHC Cost?
The cost of OSHC varies depending on your length of stay and the level of coverage you choose. Generally, the longer you stay in Australia, the more expensive the policy is. The cost of OSHC can range from around $500 to over $2,500 per year.
To get an accurate quote, you can use the OSHC price calculator on the Department of Health website. You’ll need to provide your visa type, duration of stay, and other relevant details.
How to Choose an OSHC Provider
There are several providers of OSHC in Australia, including Medibank, Bupa, Allianz, and NIB. It’s important to do your research and compare policies from different providers to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.
When comparing policies, make sure you consider the following factors:
– Price: Compare the prices of different policies and see which one fits your budget.
– Coverage: Take a closer look at what each policy covers and what it doesn’t. Some policies may cover a wider range of services or have higher benefit limits than others.
– Waiting periods: Check how long you’ll have to wait before you can claim for certain services. Some policies may have longer waiting periods than others.
– Exclusions: Look for any exclusions, such as pre-existing conditions or specific treatments that are not covered. You’ll want to make sure you understand what services you can and can’t claim.
How to Use Your OSHC
Once you’ve enrolled in OSHC, you’ll receive a membership card from your provider. You need to carry this card with you at all times as proof of your coverage. If you need medical assistance, you’ll need to present your OSHC card and your passport.
If you need to make a claim, you’ll need to complete a claim form and submit it to your OSHC provider. You can do this online or by mail. Make sure you keep all receipts and invoices related to your medical expenses, as you’ll need them to support your claim.
In Conclusion
Securing health insurance through the OSHC program is a crucial part of your studies as an international student in Australia. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you understand the importance of health insurance and how to choose the right policy for your needs and budget. Remember to keep your OSHC card with you at all times and always seek medical assistance if you need it.