As a full-time post-secondary student, taking the necessary steps to get or stay healthy when you need to focus on your studies can be made easier by a benefits plan.
Your medical financial burdens may be alleviated if you are enrolled in your school’s insurance plan, and you only have to pay a portion of the total cost of necessary prescriptions or services. Of course every school has a different insurance plan, so be sure to get the information that’s specific to your institution’s coverage.
Having a medical insurance plan can also help you if you are planning a winter break getaway. When travelling to some Caribbean islands, most doctors recommend being vaccinated against hepatitis A/B and taking malaria pills prior to your departure date. These expenses may be covered by your plan so be sure to prepare in advance of your trip.
Medication coverage is not the only benefit to a health plan. Some plans also include coverage for naturopathic medicine, chiropractic care and physiotherapy services. For most insurance claims, the practitioners must be licensed, certified or registered. So make sure you clarify this first. A number of schools have medical clinics and may offer specialty services on campus.
Depending on your plan, you may be able to add a spouse or dependent to your coverage. Read through your manual carefully and look at the allotment you are given each year. All services, including routine dental procedures and vision care, may come with a maximum allocation per year. If you have questions, see your student services department.
Keeping up with your school work means it’s vital to look after yourself.
– Tracy Rogers is the Career Services Co-ordinator for Seneca College, Seneca@York Campus.
