Finding the Perfect Fit — International Student-Athlete Insurance Plans

Did you know people ages 19 to 29 are more likely to be uninsured than any other age group? This includes student-athletes. We never want to imagine what an uninsured stay in the hospital or visit to the emergency room can cost out of pocket.

Your teams consist of student-athletes who come from all different backgrounds and hometowns. Several are more than likely world travelers and for others, this might be their first time in the U.S. These athletes will need medical assistance and health benefits to help them get through the year. Securing the correct coverage for international student-athletes is important as neither you nor the student should be paying outrageous medical bills.

Finding An International Plan That Eases the Transition

Providing your international athletes with a smooth transition is crucial when they’re coming into the U.S. and playing sports at a college or university. They play an important role in the student body and will need a plan that recognizes that. While most organizations determine the insurance plan, some international students will search and purchase their own plans. The most important factor is finding an international student-athlete plan that complies with the U.S. Healthcare reform laws.

For J-1 international students in exchange programs, the U.S. Department of State also requires specific health insurance coverage and those accompanying J-2 dependents for the entirety of their stay in the U.S. Some coverage others offer is inadequate and can put students in a bad position. Don’t let your international student-athletes pay high bills for barely any coverage.

How to Make the Best Decision for You

In order to choose the plan that’s best suited to you and your situation, consider the following criteria:

1. Health benefits: Make sure you know the benefits of each plan you’re considering. Buy only what’s important for your teams. However, don’t skimp on the benefits that you truly need.

2. Costs: Consider which plans match your budget in terms of premium, deductible, copayments and coinsurance. While the price of the plan plays an important role in your decision-making, don’t let premiums be your deciding factor. Ensure that the benefits and the price meet your needs.

3. Physician network: International student-athletes may not have experience with U.S. healthcare norms. Research the community of hospitals and doctors offered in each insurance plan. There are a few plans who offer a toll-free multilingual customer support number.

Consult CBIZ Borden Perlman Sports

Our team will make sure that you’re informed about all of your coverage options so you can make the best choice for your athletes and budget. We keep up with the NCAA, NJCAA and NAIA regulations to make sure your coverage will meet the association's requirements. To learn more about how CBIZ Borden Perlman Sports can protect your teams, connect with a member today.

This blog may contain scenarios that are provided as examples only. In an actual claim situation, coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued. The information provided is general in nature and may be affected by changes in law or the interpretation of such laws. The reader is advised to contact a professional prior to taking any action based upon this information.

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