Introduction
Health insurance is mandatory for international students coming to study in Australia. They have to choose from various options to take care of their medical expenses. In this article, we will know how much does health insurance cost for international students in Australia, whether they get free medical facilities, and medical fees, and advantages and disadvantages of health insurance, and other important information.
Do International Students Get Free Healthcare in Australia?
Most international students in Australia do not receive free healthcare. Students have the option of purchasing Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which provides them with protection against medical expenses.
What does OSHC mean?
OSHC i.e. Overseas Student Health Cover is a mandatory health insurance for students studying in Australia. The reason for taking it is that Australia’s public health service ‘Medicare’ is available only to citizens and permanent residents. International students get help through OSHC in case of any medical emergency.
How Much are Medical Fees for International Students in Australia?
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Medical expenses in Australia can be quite high. For example, if an international student visits a doctor without insurance, he or she may have to pay a fee of around AUD 50-100 per visit. While these fees are largely covered through OSHC.
How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in Australia?
The cost of health insurance depends on the duration of the student’s course, the insurance company, and the type of coverage. Generally, OSHC costs around AUD 500-600 for a year. Some of the major insurance companies like Bupa, Medibank, Allianz, etc. offer different types of OSHC plans.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Health Insurance
Advantages:
- Medical Emergency Cover: Students can avail of medical services in case of any emergency.
- Discount on medicines: Discount is also available on prescription medicines under the insurance.
- Psychological services: Many plans also cover mental health services.
Disadvantages:
- High premium cost: The premiums can be expensive for some students.
- Limited coverage: Certain critical illnesses or surgeries are not covered under this cover.
- Conditions and limitations: Many plans have certain conditions and limitations that prevent students from availing of every medical service.
Different Health Insurance Packages and Their Comparison
The various OSHC packages vary from company to company. Here is a comparison of OSHC packages from some of the leading insurance companies:
| Insurance Company | Coverage | cost per year | Additional benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bupa | Basic, Ambulance, Hospital Cover | AUD 550 | Mental health services |
| Medibank | Basic, discount on medicines | AUD 600 | health checkup discounts |
| Allianz | Basic, comprehensive cover | AUD 600 | Consulting services included |
Differences in Types of Health Insurance
There are variations in the types of health insurance. Some insurance only covers hospital expenses, while some comprehensive insurance plans also cover doctor visits, medications, and psychological services.
Similarities and Differences Between OSHC and Other Health Covers
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- Similarities: All OSHC plans to cover basic hospital and ambulance services.
- Differences: Some OSHC plans also cover mental health services and prescription drug discounts, while others do not.
How to Buy OSHC in Australia?
To purchase OSHC, students can visit the website of the insurance company of their choice and purchase the insurance directly. Many universities also assist in purchasing OSHC.
Why is Health Insurance Needed in Australia?
Healthcare in Australia is very expensive, and seeking treatment without insurance in case of an emergency can create a financial crisis for the student. OSHC provides relief and protection to students.
Conclusion
Health insurance is mandatory for international students studying in Australia so that they can cope with medical expenses. OSHC is the most suitable and affordable option for them. Although it has some limitations and conditions, it is extremely important for the health and financial security of students.
FAQs
1. What is the cost of health insurance for international students in Australia?
The cost of health insurance (OSHC) for international students in Australia varies depending on different providers and plans. Generally, it can range between around 400 AUD to 600 AUD annually. However, this amount can change depending on the insurance company, the type of coverage, and the student’s age and health history.
2. Is health insurance mandatory for all international students?
Yes, health insurance (OSHC) is mandatory for all international students studying in Australia. This insurance provides cover for any medical emergencies during study and allows students to access Australia’s healthcare system.
3. Do international students have to pay health insurance directly to the university?
No, health insurance is usually paid for by the insurance provider, not the university. However, many universities include health insurance policies as part of their student benefits, so students don’t have to apply for it separately.
4. Does health insurance in Australia cover all medical expenses?
The OSHC plan covers some medical expenses, such as doctor’s fees, hospitalization, and some other treatments. However, the plan does not cover all medical expenses. Students should study their policy carefully to know about the specific insurance terms, as some treatments and medications may cost extra.
5. Is it possible to study in Australia without health insurance?
No, international students can’t study in Australia without health insurance (OSHC). The Australian government has implemented legislation to ensure that all international students have an appropriate health insurance plan to ensure their medical protection.