Key Points
- An Overseas Student Health Cover or OSHC is a visa requirement for international students that aims to provide access to some healthcare services.
- The health insurance policies start from almost $500 depending on the duration of stay.
- For the first Kwaderno podcast episode, we talked to a migration agent and an accountant who explained the importance of health insurance.
Can you still remember how you chose your student health insurance in Australia? During your stay, were you able to utilise it?
A student visa holder in the country must have an Overseas Student Health Cover or OSHC. Aside from being a visa requirement, it will allow an international student to access some healthcare services like medical treatments and health expenses.
What is the usual coverage of student health insurance?
- doctor consultation
- selected hospital treatment
- limited pharmaceuticals
- ambulance cover
- limited surgeries
Isagani Manaois, an accountant of TaxSmartCafe
"It's a case-to-case basis. Suppose an individual feels the need to add dental or optical services. In that case, they can do so as long as they are aware of the benefits too," says Isagani Manaois, senior accountant of TaxSmartCafe.
Reyvi Marinas, a principal lawyer and migration agent
When in doubt, ask.
It is important to contact your health insurance provider whenever you need clarification about your insurance plan.
As per Reyvi Marinas, a principal lawyer, and migration agent, international students can double-check with providers their medical coverage and guide them further.
Source: Getty / Getty Images
Did you know that you can access health care services remotely?
Upon checking with your insurance provider, you may do telehealth or teleconsultation when needed, especially if you are looking for a General Practitioner or GP.
International students should be knowledgeable about their student health insurance Source: Getty / Getty Images
Use your student insurance as needed and be knowledgeable about the plan you have chosen.
Kwaderno (Notebook) is a podcast series of SBS Filipino that focuses on the experiences of international students who are navigating their lives in Australia. This will offer engaging and informative content for every international student residing in the country.
Disclaimer: The information in this podcast and article serves only as a guide. For additional information regarding your particular issue or situation, consult with legal, financial, and tax experts, and/or respective agencies.
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SBS Filipino
02/02/202323:21
