College Student Health Care Checklist
Shandra Martinez
| 2 min read
The college years have arrived. As young adults enter an exciting chapter of their lives, parents also have to prepare for the roads that lie ahead for their children. A more independent phase of health care awaits.
Now, what will happen with their health care while they're away? What are the easiest ways they can find and get the care they need? Whether they're entering the workforce or leaving for college, they'll need to prepare. Read the tips below to know what to do.
- Download our mobile app on their iPhone® or AndroidTM smartphone. They'll need your family's Blue Cross card to set up their online account. Then they'll be able to use a virtual ID card, view plan details, compare costs and find doctors near them. They can also find wellness tips from WebMD and discounts from Blue365®.
- Show them how to use their plan. Talk about which type of plan they have, how much that can affect costs and how they can get care. Discuss copayments, how much they are and how to pay for them. If they have an HMO, discuss how to get referrals for specialty care.
- Make sure they know how to get care at school. See if their university health center accepts their health care plan. Locate urgent care, doctors and emergency rooms near them while they're at school. Check their benefits to see if your student can sign up for convenient, affordable Blue Cross Online Visits℠.
- Remind your student to ask providers to send their medical records to their primary care provider any time they get treatment. Explain the cost difference between going to the ER and urgent care.
- Be sure they have essential medications at school. This could include prescription drugs, pain relievers, and cold and flu medicines.
Learn more about health care tips for college students in this Blue Cross Virtual Well-Being℠ webinar. You can also sign up for future employer-focused and general interest webinars here, where you’ll find past sessions and resources.
Photo credit: Getty Images
