Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a health insurance policy designed for international students studying in Australia. It helps cover the costs of medical and hospital care that international students may need while studying in Australia. Here’s a detailed overview of what OSHC entails, its benefits, costs, and how to choose a provider:
### What does OSHC Cover?
1. **Medical Services**: OSHC covers doctor visits (GP), specialist appointments, and some surgical procedures.
2. **Hospital Care**: It covers accommodation and medical treatment in a public hospital as a public patient, including emergency care.
3. **Prescription Medicines**: Some policies include cover for prescription medicines, but the extent of coverage varies by provider.
4. **Ambulance Services**: OSHC usually covers emergency ambulance services in Australia, which can be very expensive without insurance.
5. **Limited Dental and Optical**: Basic dental and optical services might be covered, but often only in specific circumstances (e.g., emergency dental treatment).
### Benefits of OSHC
– **Compliance Requirement**: It’s a mandatory requirement for most international students applying for a student visa in Australia.
– **Access to Healthcare**: Ensures that students have access to necessary medical services and hospital care without facing significant out-of-pocket expenses.
– **Peace of Mind**: Provides peace of mind knowing that medical expenses are covered, which is crucial in a foreign country where healthcare can be expensive.
### Costs
– **Premiums**: The cost of OSHC varies depending on the provider, the duration of coverage, and the level of coverage. Generally, you can expect to pay between AUD 437 and AUD 1,031 per year (as of 2022) depending on the provider and the length of coverage.
– **Payment**: Typically, premiums are paid upfront for the entire duration of the visa.
### Choosing an OSHC Provider
When choosing an OSHC provider, consider the following:
– **Coverage**: Compare what each policy covers, including medical services, hospital care, prescription drugs, dental, and optical services.
– **Cost**: Compare premiums and any additional fees or charges.
– **Network**: Check if the insurance provider has a broad network of doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers.
– **Customer Service**: Read reviews or ask other students about the provider’s customer service and claims process.
– **Policy Duration**: Ensure the policy covers the entire duration of your visa, including any potential extensions.
### How to Purchase OSHC
1. **Select a Provider**: Choose an OSHC provider approved by the Australian Government.
2. **Apply and Pay**: Apply for OSHC through the provider’s website or a registered agent. Pay the premium for the duration required (usually the length of your student visa).
3. **Receive Confirmation**: Once payment is made, you’ll receive a certificate of insurance (OSHC membership card) via email. This is necessary for your student visa application.
4. **Maintain Coverage**: Maintain your OSHC coverage throughout your stay in Australia. Notify your provider of any changes (e.g., visa extensions).
### Conclusion
OSHC is essential for international students in Australia, ensuring they have access to necessary healthcare services while studying. Understanding the coverage, costs, and choosing a suitable provider can help you make informed decisions and meet visa requirements effectively. Always review policy details carefully and compare options to find the best coverage for your needs.
