The Importance of Overseas Student Health Cover for International Students in Australia

• byBudgetpolicy
• 2024-11-05

With its best education, diverse culture, and excellent employment opportunities, Australia has become a popular choice for international students. However, there are certain things to take care of while relocating, one of which is in regards to safety and health.

Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC) is an important consideration while applying student visa (subclass 500) that international students must take into account. In the following blog, we will learn about the importance of OSHC among international students and fulfilling visa requirements.

Why Do Students Need OSHC?

International students holding student visa (subclass 500) must have an adequate and updated health insurance in order to pursue their higher studies in Australia. Having OSHC can do the needful. The Australian government has mandated every international student to have a health insurance – OSHC to ensure that they are able to access healthcare services without having to worry about full expenses out of their pockets during their stay in the country. To sum up, international students require OSHC for:

·         Visa Condition: Having OSHC is one of the key visa requirements for student visa subclass 500. The health cover must be bought for the duration of the stay. Visa can be rejected or delayed for not having this coverage.

·         Access to Healthcare Services: Health insurance ensures that students get medical care whenever they need it, no matter what is it for - emergency care or routine check-ups.

Why Is OSHC So Important For Students?

Living away from your home feels overwhelming and one might face a few challenges to settle in. Especially, during unexpected health issues that may arise during the study course. Therefore, OSHC is important for the following reasons:

·         Affordable Healthcare: Non-native people may find Australia's healthcare system expensive, especially international students. However, being a student visa holder, you can buy affordably priced medical care through OSHC without worrying about out-of-pocket expenses. This coverage helps in covering the medical costs of the treatments or prescription taken.

·         Emergency Services: Having access to emergency services is important, especially when something occurs out of nowhere. International students can get emergency medical care with OSHC without worrying about out-of-pocket expenses.

·         Peace of Mind: Students must focus on their studies and getting best working opportunities, after all, that is their purpose of being in Australia – to settle for the best. Having to think about medical expenses without OSHC will only drive them away from their dreams. Therefore, it is must to have OSHC with at least basic health coverage.

What Does OSHC Cover?

OSHC in Australia is specifically designed for international students for the duration of their stay in the country, ensuring they get the desired medical attention whenever needed. Enlisted are some of the main benefits of OSHC:

·         Doctor Consultations: OSHC provides health coverage over for visits to general practitioners and specialists.

·         Hospital Stays: Assistance with the hospital stays at both public and private hospitals.

·         Emergency Ambulance Services: Coverage for emergency ambulance as well, whenever needed.

·         Prescribed Medications: Coverage for certain prescribed medicines.

Who are the Top OSHC Providers in Australia?

You will find many OSHC providers across Australia providing comprehensive plans for singles, couples, and family. However, we have name top providers below - BUPA, nib, Medibank, Allianz Care, and AHM. Let us know a little about them.

BUPA OSHC

BUPA is one of the most popular names in Australian healthcare industry, offering unique and comprehensive health covers to international students. BUPA's Overseas Student Health Cover provides you coverage for prescription medicines, emergency ambulance services, hospital stays and medical treatments.

NIB OSHC

NIB is the second most preferred provider for buying OSHC for international students in Australia. It provides affordable health cover plans including coverage for hospital stays, emergency ambulance services, general medical care, and prescription medicines. The best part? They have easy claim process.

Medibank OSHC

Medibank's Overseas Student Health Cover includes coverage for general hospital and medical services, emergency ambulance services, and certain prescription medications. Compare and choose the plan that fits best with your needs and budget.

AHM OSHC

AHM OSHC policies focus on providing affordable plans while ensuring you have access to important healthcare services during your time in the country. Basic coverage include general hospital services, emergency ambulance services, and more.

Key Takeaways

Overseas Student Health Coverage is not only an important need for international students studying in the country however; it is also an important source for promoting health and wellbeing. OSHC serves as a safety measure, allowing students to focus on their studies and start their career by making them worry-free about expensive Australian healthcare system and offering emergency assistance, and adhering to visa requirements.

So, are you an international student moving to Australia for higher studies or kick starting your career? Do not forget to buy OSHC – Overseas Student Health Coverage, one of the key visa requirements. Let budget Policy guide you to the best OSHC plan. Get in touch with our experts or visit us at www.budgetpolicy.com and compare top provides yourself.