Many times, college students might need to use health insurance to access some mental health services.
Unfortunately, some students have health insurance from their home area, which can be out of network in the campus area. This can limit access to care even though students have health insurance.
Other times, students with health insurance may have high deductible plans that limit affordability of mental health services due to high copays and out of pocket costs.
What are possible solution to this?
- In some emergency situations OSU office of Student Advocacy may be able to help.
- Prescription drug discounts can be obtained using goodrx. (Goodrx.com).
- Students may be able to contact their insurance company for in-network options or other arrangements.
- Finally, some students may find it beneficial to switch over to OSU student health insurance for better coverage of mental health concerns, affordability, and in network options.
- This insurance is designed and priced with college students in mind.
According to Harry Warner, M.A. LPCC-S, Associate Director, Director of outreach, OSU-CCS, other potential advantages could be:
- More affordable access to a wider variety of providers
- Greater privacy over healthcare decisions
- Move out-state-care to central Ohio
Where can students learn more about insurance?
To learn more about health insurance, co-pays, premiums, deductible, in/out of network etc. Go to the OSU Student Health insurance website ( https://shi.osu.edu/resources/frequently-asked-questions )
This time of year may be a good option for students considering to switch.
Special acknowledgement to Harry Warner, M.A. LPCC-S, Associate Director, Director of outreach, OSU-CCS for contributing to this post.
By R. Ryan S Patel DO, FAPA OSU-CCS Psychiatrist
Disclaimer: This article is intended to be informative only. It is advised that you check with your own physician/mental health provider before implementing any changes. With this article, the author is not rendering medical advice, nor diagnosing, prescribing, or treating any condition, or injury; and therefore claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or injury caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the material presented.