Penn Student Health Insurance: What You Need to Know

As a student at the University of Pennsylvania, you have access to some of the best health care services in the country. To ensure that you have access to these services when you need them, the university requires all students to have health insurance. In this article, we will be discussing everything you need to know about Penn Student Health Insurance.

What is Penn Student Health Insurance?

Penn Student Health Insurance (SHI) is an insurance plan that provides comprehensive health care coverage to all students at the University of Pennsylvania. The plan is designed to cover the cost of most medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and mental health services.

All full-time students are automatically enrolled in the plan and the cost of the insurance is included in your tuition and fees. However, if you have comparable health insurance coverage from another source, you may be eligible to waive the SHI plan and save on your tuition bill.

What are the Benefits of Penn Student Health Insurance?

The Penn Student Health Insurance plan provides a wide range of benefits to students, including:

How Much does Penn Student Health Insurance Cost?

The cost of Penn Student Health Insurance varies depending on your enrollment status, degree program, and the dates of coverage. For the 2021-2022 academic year, the cost for full-time undergraduate students is $2,498 per semester. Graduate students and other schools may have different rates, so be sure to check with the Student Health Insurance office for the most current information on rates and coverage.

How to Waive Penn Student Health Insurance?

If you have comparable health insurance coverage from another source, you may be eligible to waive the Penn Student Health Insurance plan. To waive the plan, you must provide proof of your coverage by the deadline each semester. Acceptable proof of coverage includes a health insurance ID card and a letter of coverage from your insurance provider. If you are unsure if your insurance coverage is comparable, you can review the waiver requirements on the Student Health Insurance office website.

How to Access Penn Student Health Services?

Once enrolled in the Penn SHI plan, you can access health care services through the Student Health Service Center. The center offers a wide range of medical services, including:

To make an appointment with the Student Health Service Center, you need to call or use the online booking system to schedule a time that works for you. The center is located on the University of Pennsylvania campus and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Penn Student Health Insurance FAQ

When does Penn Student Health Insurance Coverage begin?

Penn Student Health Insurance coverage begins on August 15 for the fall semester and January 1 for the spring semester. You must be enrolled in the plan before the start of the semester to have coverage.

What if I need medical care when I am not on the Penn campus?

If you need medical care when you are away from campus, the Penn SHI plan provides coverage for emergency medical care and urgent care services. If you need non-emergency medical care, you can use your insurance provider’s network of providers to find a covered doctor or hospital.

What if I have health insurance coverage from another source?

If you have comparable health insurance coverage from another source, you can waive the Penn SHI plan by the deadline each semester. Be sure to review the waiver requirements and deadlines on the Student Health Insurance office website.

Can I add dependents to my Penn Student Health Insurance plan?

You can add dependents to your Penn SHI plan, but it will come at an extra cost. The cost for adding dependents varies depending on the dates of coverage and the number of dependents. Contact the Student Health Insurance office for more information on adding dependents.

What if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

The Penn SHI plan covers all pre-existing medical conditions, but there may be some limitations and exclusions. Be sure to review the plan details and consult with a representative from the Student Health Insurance office if you have any questions or concerns.

What if I have difficulty paying for Penn Student Health Insurance?

If you are facing financial difficulties or have other circumstances that make it difficult for you to pay for Penn Student Health Insurance, there may be options available to you. Contact the Student Health Insurance office to learn more about financial assistance programs and other resources that may be available.

What if I have additional questions or concerns?

If you have additional questions or concerns about Penn Student Health Insurance, contact the Student Health Insurance office for assistance. There are representatives available who can answer your questions and provide guidance on the best course of action for your situation.

Conclusion

Penn Student Health Insurance is an essential component of your health care plan while attending the University of Pennsylvania. The plan provides comprehensive coverage for most medical services and ensures that you have access to top-quality health care when you need it. Be sure to review the plan details, waiver requirements, and enrollment deadlines to ensure that you have the coverage you need.