University of South Carolina
International Accelerator Program
STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Am I required to have medical insurance?
Yes. All international students are required to maintain adequate medical insurance. Enrollment is mandatory for all International Students with a current passport and student Visa (J-1 or F-1) who are temporarily located outside their home country and are actively engaged in education or educational research activities.
What is a PPO?
A PPO is a Preferred Provider Organization. It is a type of health insurance plan that allows you to see any doctor or specialist of your choice. It does not require that you have a primary care physician. The student health insurance plan is a PPO plan.
What does in-network and out-of-network mean?
An in-network provider is one contracted with Cigna to provide services to plan members for specific pre-negotiated rates. An out-of-network provider is one not contracted with Cigna.
Can I go to any health care provider?
Yes. You are encouraged to choose a provider in the Cigna Network. These providers apply network discounts to their services therefore reducing any out-of-pocket costs to you.
What if I go to a provider who does not participate with Cigna?
If you see provider who is not part of the Cigna network, you will have to pay more out of your own pocket and will be responsible for any applicable co-insurance and any amount above the usual and customary fee for providers. It is to your advantage to see an in-network provider to maximize your benefits.
Where can I get a directory or list of participating providers?
You have access to the Cigna provider network. To find a list of participating providers in the Cigna network, please visit, www.universityhealthplans.com/USC
When scheduling an appointment, should I tell the provider's office that I have health insurance?
Yes. If you are scheduling an appointment with a provider, you should present your insurance ID card.
Is it my responsibility to file a medical claim?
If you visit an in-network Cigna provider, the provider MUST file a medical claim on your behalf. In the event that the provider is out-of-network and does not submit a claim for you, you will need a claim form to submit for payment.
When do I have to fill out a claim form?
You would need to fill out a claim form if your pharmacy or provider does not participate with Cigna and bills you directly and you pay out of pocket at the time of service.
Where can I find a claim form?
You can obtain a copy of the medical claim form or prescription claim form by visiting, www.universityhealthplans.com/USC
How can I check the status of a claim I submitted?
You can check the status of a claim that you or the provider has submitted by visiting the insurance company’s website. Please refer to the below for contact information.
Wellfleet Student
Phone: 877-657-5030
Do I get an insurance ID card?
Yes. Once you are enrolled in the student health insurance plan, an insurance card will be issued to you. In the event that the card does not arrive on time, you can still receive medical services as long as you are enrolled in the eligibility system.
What if I lose my ID card?
If you lose your ID card, you can receive a replacement card by going to www.universityhealthplans.com/USC and clicking on “Insurance ID Card.”
Does the student health insurance plan cover prescription drugs?
Yes. The student health insurance plan provides prescription coverage. Please refer to the pharmacy benefits in your student health insurance plan benefit summary.
Which pharmacy can I use to fill my prescription?
You can go to any pharmacy that is part of the Cigna network. If you need to get a provider listing or inquire about a participating pharmacy, please visit, www.universityhealthplans.com/USC and select “Provider Search” located in the left navigation menu.
Does my health insurance plan cover treatment for substance abuse and mental illness?
Yes, the student health insurance plan provides coverage for substance abuse and mental health treatment. Generally, the extent of coverage depends on whether the treatment is provided on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Please refer to your student health insurance plan document for specific details.
Does my health insurance plan cover pregnancy?
The student health insurance plan provides coverage for a pregnancy on the same basis as any other medical condition. Please refer to your student health insurance plan document for specific details.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Yes. There are no limitations on pre-existing conditions.
Where am I covered through the student health insurance plan?
The student health insurance plan provides worldwide coverage, except in your home country.
Who should I contact if I have questions about my insurance benefits?
Please refer to all benefits in your student health insurance plan document. If you still need assistance, please refer to the below for contact information.
Wellfleet Student
Phone: 877-657-5030
Who should I contact if I have questions about my enrollment?
Please contact University Health Plans at, 800-437-6448 or, info@univhealthplans.com.
