College Students with No Income Can Get Affordable Health Insurance
Going to college is an exciting time for most students, but it can also be expensive. Being a student also means that there is no regular income. One essential thing that students must have is health insurance. However, many students feel the burden of choosing the right insurance plan. The good news is that there are several ways for college students with no income to get affordable health insurance.
Options for College Students
One of the most significant options for students is the student health insurance plan (SHIP) provided by their college. The plan offers comprehensive and affordable coverage that caters explicitly to the needs of students. The benefits of this plan include reduced premiums, affordable prescription drugs, and access to medical services oncampus. Students who are not satisfied with the college-provided plan can look at alternatives such as options offered through state-based marketplaces.
Another option is Medicaid, which offers free or low-cost health care coverage to people with low-income. Over the years, Medicaid has significantly expanded the coverage to include more adults’ categories, including students who meet the eligibility requirements. Students can contact their state or local Medicaid office to learn more about eligibility criteria and enrollment.
Students can also consider short-term health insurance. These are temporary plans that can cover healthcare needs in the short term when an individual is transitioning between coverage periods. However, it is essential to know that these plans offer limited coverage, and the premiums can be very high.
Protections Under the Affordable Care Act
Several provisions under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) also benefit college students. For instance, students can remain under their parent’s plan until they reach the age of 26 years. This extension of coverage to dependents ensures that students have health insurance options, even if they are not yet employed.
Additionally, the ACA prohibits insurers from denying coverage or charging higher premiums based on pre-existing conditions. This protection is essential for college students who may have pre-existing health conditions but are still in school and may not have steady sources of income.
Conclusion
Healthcare is a crucial part of every student’s life, and it is essential to find affordable health insurance options. SHIP, Medicaid, short-term health insurance, and extensions under the ACA are all viable options that college students can consider. It is crucial to carefully evaluate each option and choose what best suits their needs.
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