WMU Offers Health Care Programs for Students

By Daing S. Nassir
Western Herald

Western Herald file photo

For many students who do not have health care, the idea of paying either for insurance coverage or medical bills may be daunting.

According to the National Coalition on Health Care, the average cost of an individual insurance plan is $4,700. For students who have no coverage under their parents or former guardians, Sindecuse Health Center has programs for those that are independents and seek healthcare.

There are two policies for Western Michigan University students. The Basic plan has a $200 deductible and then covers 80 percent of medical bills. It has $1,000 worth of pharmacy coverage, which is $10 copay for generic drugs and $20 for brand name.

The Comprehensive plan has a $100 deductible and covers 90 percent of medical bills. It has $5000 worth of pharmacy coverage with the same copays as the Basic plan, which also includes birth control.

“These are both good policies that cover students for illnesses and injuries,” said Cindy Clegg, University Student Insurance Program (USIP) Manager. “They also conduct vision exams, annual physical exams, prescription, physical therapy and massage coverage, as well as many other benefits,” Clegg said.

If students meet the State of Michigan eligibility requirements, they may also be eligible for Medicaid, said Sindecuse Medical Social Work Director, Fran Morrow. SHC also offers treatment for students without insurance.

“There are state programs for women between the ages of 19-44 for family planning health care only that are free. This plan has limitations but it is a good option for someone who does not have insurance or if their insurance doesn’t cover family planning,” said Morrow.

Morrow added that the Medical Social Work Department at Sindecuse can assist students in obtaining medications through the pharmaceutical patient assistance programs if they are uninsured and cannot afford medications.

To find out more information about the programs offered through Sindecuse, go to wmich.edu/sch and click on the insurance tab or contact Cindy Clegg at cindy.clegg@wmich.edu or 269-387-3266.

Short URL: http://www.westernherald.com/?p=6447

Posted by HeraldAdmin on Jun 29 2009. Filed under Breaking, Campus, News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry

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