5 Questions to Ask Your Health Insurance Provider

Does your health insurance plan meet Penn State's recommendations?
If you currently have health insurance coverage offered through a U.S. employer-sponsored program, or coverage that was purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace (HealthCare.gov) there is a good chance that it will meet Penn State's recommended coverage.
We recommend asking your health insurance company the following five questions to help determine if your plan meets University recommendations.
- Is my policy effective throughout the academic school year?
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The SHIP for Penn State Answer:
Yes, the SHIP for Penn State is effective August 13, 2023 - August 12, 2024.
- Does my policy offer in-network providers on or near the campus I attend?
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The SHIP for Penn State Answer:
The SHIP for Penn State, underwritten by UnitedHealthcare StudentResources, offers a national network of health care providers including clinicians at University Health Services-University Park, and other campus locations.
- What is my deductible and out-of-pocket costs?
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The SHIP for Penn State Answer:
$250 deductible
$10 office visit copay
10% coinsurance
$1,300 out-of-pocket maximum (in network)
- Does my policy offer prescription drug coverage?
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The SHIP for Penn State Answer:
The SHIP for Penn State offers $0 copay at University Health Services Pharmacy and $10/$30/$60 copay at other in-network pharmacies.
- Does my policy have coverage for emergencies and non-emergency services such as diagnostic x-ray and lab, physical therapy, urgent care visits, ambulance services, and preventative vaccines?
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The SHIP for Penn State Answer:
The SHIP for Penn State provides protection for both emergency and non-emergency medical services (see deductible and out-of-pocket fees). In addition, preventative vaccines are covered per federal health care guidelines.
Interested in learning more about insurance planning? Check out MoneyCounts: A Financial Literacy Series Self-Study Module.