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Archive for the ‘Health & Safety’ Category
Thursday, January 26th, 2012
It’s the New Year’s and you have discovered that you can purchase our more affordable insurance plan instead of your university’s plan. As an international student, you may wonder to yourself, “how do I find a doctor in the US?” or “can I visit any doctor I want to?”
Whether you have purchased our Student Secure plan, Atlas plan or Citizen Secure plan, you can find a doctor in the US very easily. All three plans are what are referred to as a preferred provider organization, or PPO. PPO is an optional network with contracted doctors or hospitals that you can go to. While this network is not required, these doctors and hospitals usually have discounted rates and have agreed to accept direct payment from the insurance company (this means that the insurance company pays covered expenses directly to your doctor or hospital, instead of paying first and being reimbursed).
If you choose the Student Secure Select level, the Atlas Plan or the Citizen Secure. By choosing a provider that is inside the network, you will receive 100% coverage for eligible expenses after you have met any deductible (up to your policy maximum). Coverage may change if you are outside the network so be sure to check the benefits on your plan as this is common in PPO networks.
Whether you go to a doctor or hospital in or out of the network, simply show your insurance ID card to the doctor office. Your doctor can then call the phone number located on your insurance ID card to arrange direct payment.
With any of these plans, you can simply use our online provider search tool to find a doctor or hospital anywhere around the US. We have multiple plans available to fit your needs; if you need help choosing the right plan contact our insurance agents to assist.
Tags: Find a doctor in the US, find a hospital, finding a doctor
Posted in Health & Safety, Insurance Explained, International Student in the USA, Product Information, Student Health Insurance, Student Insurance | 1 Comment »
Saturday, January 21st, 2012
South Korea has become well known around the world for its cars, consumer electronics and even their pop culture. For this reason it’s not hard to imagine why it is one of the top study abroad destinations in the East Asia region, 3rd after China and Japan. In the year 2009/2010 there was over 2,000 U.S. students studying abroad in Korea according to the most recent Open Doors Report.
In the past few decades the economy of South Korea has grown remarkably and today it is ranked number 13th as the largest in the world based on GDP. Today, Korean is a major world player in the high-tech electronic industry and is famous for its consumer electronic brands such as Samsung and LG which makes products like HDTVs and smart phones. Not only that, Korean popular culture such as music, TV dramas and movies have brought even more interest to the country from across the world.
Just like any study abroad program, there is a chance that you may become sick or injured while overseas. All Koreans have a Korean national health insurance. However, if you are a foreigner you are ineligible unless you will be staying in Korea for more than one year. If you plan on staying less than one year, our insurance for study abroad in Korea would be able to provide you coverage in case you get hurt or injured while you are abroad. The plan covers doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription medication and more. If you plan on taking short trips to visit neighboring countries like China or Japan our insurance for study abroad in Korea plan will also covers you there as well.
So if your school or government is not already providing you with insurance, prepare in advance by purchasing an insurance for study abroad in Korea. If you have any questions about insurance for your upcoming trips feel free to contact us at any time.
Tags: Insurance for korea, Insurance for Study Abroad in Korea, Korea Travel Insurance
Posted in Country Requirements, Health & Safety, Student Health Insurance, Student Insurance, Study Abroad | No Comments »
Saturday, January 7th, 2012
As you prepare for your trip and pack your suitcase, you often think about the weather and what you plan to wear. If the weather is cold, you will need to bring a sweater or jacket. Or, if you are traveling to a warm place, you may need your swimming suit. You may also think of your toothbrush and shampoo, along with any gifts for anyone you’re visiting. However, most people will never think about what they may need in case they get sick. It is a good idea when traveling abroad that you pack a travel health kit. Below are some tips if you are going to be traveling with medication.
While most countries will have medication to treat minor symptoms like aches and pains, it is likely that the name of the medication will be different than what you are used to, the language may be in a different language or the dosage might be different. Traveling with medication will save you the time and the trouble of trying to find the right medication when you really need to have it. Here are some over the counter medications that you should think of bring on your trip:
- For digestive issues – Especially if you are traveling to a country that serves food you are not used to, if you are prone to indigestion or if you are traveling to country where food hygiene is low, you’ll want to bring:
- Anti-diarrheal
- Antacid
- Laxative
- For colds, fever and pain:
- Decongestant
- Pain killer/fever reducer such as ibuprofen
- Cough drops
- For minor injuries:
- Antibacterial ointments or creams
- Bandages
- Aloe gel for sunburns
- Others
- Antihistamine for allergy
- Hydrocortisone cream for itchiness
- Motion sickness medication
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Travel Insurance ID card
If you are traveling with medication prescribed by your doctor, make sure you have it in the original container from the doctor/pharmacy that is clearly labeled. Also pack copies of your prescriptions and preferably also a letter from your physician describing what your medicine is and what it is for. Some countries may also have restriction on certain medications, so be sure to check with your embassy before traveling.
Lastly, don’t pack these items in your checked luggage, if the airline lost your bag, you don’t want to be left without your important medications.
Tags: packing prescription medication, travel with medicine, Traveling with Medication
Posted in Health & Safety, Student Insurance, Study Abroad | No Comments »
Saturday, December 17th, 2011
It’s winter and the school semester is almost over! During this winter break if you are not returning home, why not take a trip abroad and experience the season in another country?
Whether you are going to the famous Christmas Market in Germany, going skiing in the Swiss Alps or flying to the other side of the world to escape the cold, it is best if you are prepare for your trip with winter break trip travel insurance.
Many students looking for travel insurance for winter break will find that our Atlas Travel Medical plan provides comprehensive medical sickness and injury coverage for an affordable price whether it is a few days or a few weeks. Because it can be purchase for as little as 5 days and can provide coverage worldwide outside of your home country it is very flexible and will fit the need for most trips. This plan covers you for doctor visits, hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation, and much more.
If you will be participating in more adventurous sports on your trip such as skiing, you can also add the optional sport rider to the plan to cover those activities as well!
You can get your insurance documents and ID card right away, so if you need proof of insurance quickly you will be able to provide it if it is required by the local authority of the destination country.
If you are worried about inclement weather disrupting your trips and causing your flight to be canceled, be sure to check our previous blogs about how to avoid stress while traveling during the holiday season.
Feel free to contact any of our licensed insurance agent if you have any questions about your insurance needs for an upcoming trip and we would be happy to help you!
Tags: cancellation insurance, Travel Insurance, Trip Insurance, vacation insurance, winter break trip insurance, winter holiday insurance, winter travel
Posted in Health & Safety, International Student in the USA, Product Information, Student Health Insurance, Student Insurance, Travel Insurance | No Comments »
Tuesday, December 6th, 2011
As we head into the holiday season, many of us decide to travel overseas. As you decide where to go, the US Department of State lists the current travel warnings that are relevant to international travelers. As a student or family going abroad, it is important to stay up to date with current events to make sure that your trip is safe, secure, and fun.
- Travel Warning for Afghanistan – On December 1, 2011, the US State Department issued a travel warning for US citizens traveling to Afghanistan which replaces the warning back in March. The current travel warnings “reminds US citizens of ongoing security risks, including kidnapping and insurgent attacks.” While many travel warnings may apply to a specific region, the DOS states that, “no part of Afghanistan should be considered immune from violence and the potential exists throughout the country for hostile acts, either targeted or random, against U.S. and other Western nationals at any time.”
- Travel Warning for Burundi – On November 25, 2011, the US State Department reaffirmed a travel warning issued on June 1, 2011. With no changes to the current travel warning, Burundi’s peacekeeping efforts in Somalia there are now threats by “the Somali terrorist organization al-Shabaab… to conduct terror attacks in Burundi.”
- Travel Warning for Eritrea – On November 4, 2011, the US State Department extended current travel warnings dating back to February. The warning in Eritrea strongly advises all travel to the country to be pushed back due to security concerns including piracy.
- Travel Warning for Kenya – On November 4, 2011, the US State Department issued concerns of travel to Kenya replacing a December 2010 warning. Current travel warnings cites security issues due to terrorism and violence.
- Travel Warning for Guinea – On November 4, 2011, the US State Department replaced the existing December 2010 warning due to the political climate. Elections are scheduled for December 29th and while the current President has instilled a relatively calm environment, the election is contested and can present violent protests in the region.
- Travel Warning for Korea, Democratic People’s Republic of (North Korea) – On November 3, 2011, the US State Department strongly urges travelers to avoid North Korea as “U.S. citizens crossing into North Korea, even accidentally, have been subject to arrest and long-term detention.” The travel warning continues to state that it is not uncommon to have expensive fines, long imprisonment, and hard labor if travelers do not possess a valid passport and visa.
International Student Insurance urges all travelers to be properly prepared and aware of the international climate. For the latest, check out the US Department of State for more information on these and other current travel warnings for December and November.
Tags: Current Travel Warnings, December Travel Warnings, US State Department
Posted in Health & Safety, Travel Warnings | No Comments »
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
It’s already December and many students will have the winner holiday break coming up soon. If you are planning on traveling this season keep in mind that you are not alone, whether you are celebrating the holidays or New Year. Couple this with possible inclement weather such as snow storms and you can imagine that this year is unlike many others, flights delays or cancellations. Whether for vacation or returning home to see your friends and family, being prepare can lessen the travel stress that you might experience during your trip.
Be prepared for your trip and bring entertainment in case you find yourself sitting and waiting for your next flight. This means bringing your iPod/iPad, Gameboy, cell phone, or any other electronic devices with you fully charged. Because while many airports now have electrical outlets, the number of them are limited and someone else may be using them. You don’t want to run out of battery when you’re stuck waiting in the airport (but bring your charger just in case!). You can also bring a book or other reading material in case you need a change of pace.
Another necessity is bringing food and snacks with you on your trip, worse than being bored is being hungry. Some airline doesn’t serve food on short flights, if the delay gets really bad, the airline or the airport may very well run out of food (or there might be some major lines!).
Being prepared also means preparing yourself mentally for the unexpected such as delays or cancellations. It can also mean avoiding travel delays before it even happens. Book flights that have a good record of not being delayed and opt for nonstop flight if possible, the more connections you have the more likelihood of delays.
If you need to run to catch your next flight, it helps if you can get through the security link faster. Check out some helpful hints for holiday travelers by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration.
If worst come to worst, having a good trip cancellation travel insurance policy can help if you find yourself in a situation where your flights are cancelled, or if you are delayed for a long period of time reducing your travel stress. Most plans also provide travel assistance to help reduce travel stress and headache.
Tags: miss flight, snow travel, travel head ache, travel stress, trip cancellation, winter travels
Posted in Health & Safety, Travel Insurance | No Comments »
Monday, October 10th, 2011
With its beautiful beaches, lush jungles, exotic culture, rich history and delicious food, Thailand is known as a great vacation destination of the world. While these reasons bring many tourists, the same reasons also bring many students seeking an exciting and unique study abroad experience as well.
It is important to keep in mind that health care in each country is unique and the same goes for Thailand. If you are coming from the Unites States or other western country it is a good idea to be aware of how the health care system works beforehand.
The majority of people arrive in Thailand via the capital city, Bangkok, where most of the major universities are also located. There are many clinics and hospitals in the city as well, but private clinics may not be staffed with English speaking professionals. For most foreigners, the best option may be to visit a general hospital which in most cases is a private hospital. While they are usually more expensive, they are more accustomed to treating foreigner and are often equipped with state of the art medical equipment.
If you decide to study or travel to a more remote area of the country, language barriers may be an issue if you do not speak Thai or if you do not have someone who can translate for you. Most sicknesses or injuries can be treated in the local facilities, but if you need emergency care that would require more specialized treatment, you may need to be medically evacuated to a nearby major city. This is especially true for the poor North Eastern region of the country where the ratio of doctor is 1:7251 according to the World Health Organization‘s 2002 data.
It is important to protect yourself with a private health insurance while you are studying abroad in Thailand since there is no free national health care system. Our international student insurance for Thailand will be able to provide medical coverage in case you get sick or injured during your time abroad, it also includes benefit for emergency medical evacuation and also translation service available 24/7! If you have more questions, feel free to contact our international insurance agents at any time!
Tags: international student insurance, study abroad insurance, study in Thailand, study in Thailand insurance, Thai study abroad insurance
Posted in Health & Safety, Student Health Insurance, Student Insurance, Study Abroad | No Comments »
Friday, September 23rd, 2011
According to the CIA World Fact Book, Taiwan has an estimated GDP real growth rate of 10.8% placing it at number 4 compared to the rest of the world (2010). Taiwan has one of the most dynamic economies in the world but is often an overlooked destination for student studying abroad. However, this country is a great destination for students who want to study abroad and learn Mandarin Chinese at the same time!
If you will be an international student in Taiwan for over four months you will receive an Alien Resident Certificate which will allow you to enroll in the government’s National Health Insurance (NHI). If you are studying in Taiwan for just a semester, you would not be eligible for the National Health Insurance program and would need to have your own private international student health insurance in Taiwan.
For students ineligible for the Taiwan National Health Insurance (or for those wanting private insurance), our private international student health insurance in Taiwan would be able to provide a great protection against any unforeseen sicknesses or injuries that might happen while you are there.
Tags: health insurance for taiwan, international student health insurance in taiwan, international student in taiwan, study abroad in taiwan, taiwan health insurance, taiwan study abroad insurance
Posted in Country Requirements, Health & Safety, Insurance Explained, Student Health Insurance, Student Insurance, Study Abroad, Travel Insurance | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 24th, 2011
When most people hear about studying abroad or international students they think of students in their 20s studying in college or university. But there are many international students that are still in high school. Many insurance policies for international students are designed for college students, and high school students may have some trouble finding an insurance policy that will work for them.
If you or your child plan to study in a US high school, there are several options available for international students.
- If you will be coming to the US as a high school student on a F-1 student visa, you are eligible to apply for our Student Secure, international high school student health insurance. The plan comes in three different levels: Smart, Budget and Select. If you will be playing in an interscholastic sports team, the Budget and the Select level will provide coverage for most sport-related injuries as well.
- If you are coming to study in the US on a high school exchange program which would last no more than one year, you are eligible for our Atlas Travel Plan. The Atlas Travel Plan gives you the flexibility to choose the exact number of days you need coverage for your stay in the US.
Both plans offer a wide range of benefits for emergency and non-emergency services including doctor visits, prescription medication, etc. If you need help deciding which international student insurance plan will work for high school, please feel free to contact our qualified agents who will be happy to help you.
Tags: High School students in the US, international high school student, international high school student insurance, international insurance for foreign students, international student insurance, non-college international student insurance
Posted in Health & Safety, International Student in the USA, Student Health Insurance, Student Insurance, Study Abroad | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 17th, 2011
The third issue of the International Student Insurance Newsletter has just been sent out to our subscribers, packed full of information, advice, help and services to international students and study abroad students who are traveling abroad with our plans. This issue features:
- Launch of our iPhone App
- Waiving out of your schools insurance plan
- Best Practices for seeking treatment
- Study in the USA iPhone App
- and much more….
If you have purchased one of our insurance plans, you will have received the newsletter – if you have not received the newsletter, then purchase one of our plans! or you can read the version online at:
Tags: insurance newsletter, international student insurance newsletter, student insurance newsletter
Posted in Health & Safety, Insurance Explained, Product Information | No Comments »
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