HEALTH INSURANCE REQUIREMENT FOR UH MANOA F-1 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

GENERAL QUESTIONS

HEALTH INSURANCE CLEARANCE QUESTIONS:

UH STUDENT PLAN QUESTIONS:

Important for Current Student Plan Members (enrolled during Spring 2013)

Eligibility

Plan Benefits & Provider Network

Plan Rates

Enrollment

Dependents

Cancellation

Who to Contact

OTHER INSURANCE PLAN QUESTIONS:

GENERAL QUESTIONS


Do I need health insurance if I am a F-1 student?

Yes.  The University of Hawaii Board of Regents Policy (7-7) states:  “All non-immigrants on student visas are required to enroll in a University of Hawai‘i endorsed student health insurance plan or furnish proof of enrollment in a health program whose benefits meet the minimum insurance requirements set by the President or the President’s designee.”  This policy protects both the student and the university.

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Do I need health insurance if I am doing my Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

F-1 students doing their OPT are not required to have health insurance, however, health insurance coverage is highly recommended.

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Do I need health insurance if I am a J-1 student?

J-1 students are monitored by the International Student Services (ISS) Office (http://www.hawaii.edu/issmanoa/).  For information on the health insurance requirements and clearance process, contact ISS at (808) 956-8613 or issmanoa@hawaii.edu

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Why is health insurance in the US Important? 

While other countries may cover the health care expenses for their citizens, in the United States each individual is responsible for his or her own medical expenses.  A visit to the emergency room or a stay in the hospital can cost many thousands of dollars and the lack of adequate insurance coverage can be financially devastating.  Therefore it is very important to have insurance that covers medical expenses.

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What kind of health insurance is available to me as a UH student?

UH and Chaminade have endorsed HMSA (Hawaii Medical Service Association) as the plan provider for the 2012 – 2013 academic year.

HMSA, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, is a reliable name in Hawaii health care. Established in 1938, they are the largest and most experienced provider of health care coverage in the state. Over half of Hawaii ’s population has chosen HMSA for their health care coverage. HMSA was chosen as the current UH endorsed plan based on a combination of cost, benefits, claims payment and customer service.

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Where can I find more information on the student plan?

For complete information about the plan, premiums, eligibility requirements, application form, and a listing of participating providers, go to www.hmsa.com/portal/student

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HEALTH INSURANCE CLEARANCE QUESTIONS


What is health insurance clearance?

The university requires that all international students maintain adequate medical health insurance and medical evacuation and repatriation coverage while attending UH.

All students will be unable to register, add or drop classes until they receive health insurance clearance due to the health insurance registration hold.

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What are the minimum insurance requirements?

The minimum coverage requirements are listed on the F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider Certification Form.  The university reserves the right to change coverage requirements in response to US or state law requirements, or in response to changing industry standards.

It is important that prior to the fall semester each year, you check to make sure that your plan still meets the university’s requirements.  If the requirements change, any insurance that was acceptable in prior years may no longer be acceptable for the upcoming school year.

Health Insurance Requirements for F-1 Students:

  • While enrolled at UH, you are required to have coverage for each semester that you attend classes

You are required to have insurance that covers you for the entire time that you are enrolled at the University and are taking classes.  You can submit your insurance for clearance every semester: fall, spring, summer (if taking classes) or by a combination of semesters: fall & spring, spring & summer or for the entire academic year (fall, spring & summer).

Even if your insurance plan is good for more than one year, you will only receive clearance through the end of the academic year (fall, spring & summer).  Every fall, students are required to submit a new form so that we can verify that your plan still meets the University’s requirements as they may have changed.

For example, you have insurance for 2 years:

You start classes in the fall:  If your plan is accepted, you will only receive insurance clearance for the fall, spring and summer.  The following fall, you will have to submit your insurance again for clearance.

You start classes in the spring:  If your plan is accepted, you will only receive insurance clearance for spring & summer.  The following fall, you will have to submit your insurance again for clearance. 

  • Comprehensive medical coverage = at least $100,000 US per accident/illness

Your insurance plan must provide medical benefits (doctor visits, hospital, surgery, laboratory tests, x-rays, etc.) of at least $100,000 US (American dollars) for each accident or illness.

For example, if you are in an accident you will have to pay your portion (deductible, if applicable, and your copayment) and your insurance policy must pay for covered expenses until a limit of at least $100,000 US is reached.  Then if you get sick you will have to pay your portion again (deductible, if applicable, and your copayment) and your insurance policy must pay for covered expenses until a limit of at least $100,000 US is reached.

  • Inpatient/Outpatient medical (including mental health) coverage at no less than 75% usual/customary charge (UCC)

Your insurance plan must pay at least 75% of covered medical expenses (including mental health coverage) for both inpatient (stay at an inpatient facility/hospital) and outpatient (doctor’s office, outpatient department of a hospital or ambulatory surgery center) services.

Even after you pay the deductible, an insurance plan will usually cover only a percentage of your medical expenses.  For example, if the policy pays 75%, you would need to pay the remaining 25% (coinsurance/copayment).

  • Repatriation coverage = at least $7,500 US

If you should die in the U.S. , your plan must provide at least $7,500 US (American dollars) to send your body/remains back to your home country.

  • Medical evacuation coverage to home country = at least $10,000 US

If, due to a serious illness or injury, your doctor recommends that you return to your home country for treatment and/or recovery, your plan must provide up to $10,000 US (American dollars) for you to return home.

  • No more than $500 US deductible per accident or illness

Your insurance plan deductible cannot exceed $500 US (American dollars) for each accident or illness.  Most insurance plans require you to pay for part of your health expenses (this is called the deductible) before they will start to pay for any covered services.

While the requirement limits the deductible to $500 per accident or illness many plans offer either lower deductibles or no deductibles at all.  Some plans also have deductibles per year instead of per accident or illness.  As long as your plan does not exceed the $500 US deductible (per accident/illness or per year) then this requirement will be fulfilled.

A deductible is not the same as a copayment or coinsurance.  A deductible is in addition to your copayment/coinsurance. 

  • Waiting period for pre-existing conditions no longer than 6 months

Your insurance plan cannot exclude coverage for any pre-existing conditions longer than 6 months.

Each company has their own definition for pre-existing conditions, but basically pre-existing conditions are any physical or mental conditions for which medical advice, medication, diagnosis, care, or treatment was recommended or received prior to enrollment on your insurance plan.

Some insurance plans exclude pre-existing conditions while some plans might put a waiting period on pre-existing conditions.  A waiting period means that your insurance company will not cover any pre-existing conditions for a certain amount of time; this waiting period can range from 6 to 18 months.  For example, if your plan has a 12 month waiting period for pre-existing conditions and you have previously received care for asthma, then you will not have coverage for any care or services related to asthma for 12 months.

As long as your plan has either no exclusions for pre-existing conditions or a waiting period of 6 months or less, then this requirement will be fulfilled.


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How does the University monitor health insurance for F-1 international students?

All University of Hawai’i Manoa F-1 students have an insurance hold on their Banner accounts.  This means that you will be unable to register, add or drop classes until you receive health insurance clearance.  You are required to receive insurance clearance for every semester that you are enrolled at UH.

Students can view their registration holds on their MyUH portal.  From the MyUH home page, click on “Registration”, then on “Check Registration Status” and select the current semester to see if you have any holds.

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How do I receive health insurance clearance for the UH Student Plan?

If you choose the UH Student Plan, you will need to submit the following:

  1. F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider Certification Form

    1.  Student needs to complete & sign the top portion of the
         form

    AND
  2. Proof of enrollment on the UH Student Plan
    *you only need to submit one of the 3 options below

    1.  Online Receipt/Confirmation Page OR
    2.  A copy of your completed insurance application AND
          receipt showing the amount paid OR
    3.  Confirmation letter from an agent at HMSA. Letter must
         include:
    • Subscriber name
    • Confirmation that you purchased the UH Student Plan
    • Plan start and end dates
    • Benefit option purchased

NOTE:  If you purchase this plan by mail you may not receive confirmation from HMSA in a timely manner, which may impact your ability to register/add/drop courses.


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How do I receive health insurance clearance for the UH Employer/Employee Insurance Plan (through EUTF)?

If you choose the UH Employer/Employee Health Insurance Plan, you will need to submit the following:

  1. For New EUTF Members (if you are applying for the first time or reapplying for this plan)
    1. F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider Certification Form
      1. Student needs to complete & sign the top portion of the form.
    2. MEMO (for new EUTF members)
      1. This memo needs to be completed and signed by your department
      2. This shows that you have applied for health insurance, which insurance plan you selected and your employment dates

        EUTF Medical Plans that meet the medical requirements:
        -         HMSA 90/10 PPO Plan
        -         HMSA 80/20 PPO Plan
        -         HMSA HMO Plan
        -         Kaiser Basic Plan
        -         Kaiser Comprehensive Plan
    3. Proof of repatriation and medical evacuation insurance

      You have to purchase separate repatriation & medical evacuation insurance. Some companies that sell this type of insurance are: International SOS and Basic Emergency Travel Assistance (BETA); HOWEVER, you can purchase this coverage from any company of your choice as long as it meets the minimum requirements ($7,500 USD for repatriation & at least $10,000 USD for medical evacuation.

      Documentation (proof of insurance) should include:

      -       Insurance company's name
      -       Plan subscriber's name
      -       Plan start and end dates
      -       Dollar amounts of coverage (at least $7,500 for repatriation & at least $10,000 USD for medical evacuation
  2. For Continuing EUTF Members (if you are already on EUTF & just need to submit updated documents)
    1. F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider Certification Form
      1. Student needs to complete & sign the top portion of the form
    2. Copy of your most recent paystub
      1. This shows that you have health insurance (the premiums are being deducted from your pay)
    3. Copy of your health insurance card OR copy of your EUTF Confirmation Notice
      1. This shows that you have a plan that meeds the medical requirements

        EUTF Medical Plans that meet the medical requirements:
        -         HMSA 90/10 PPO Plan
        -         HMSA 80/20 PPO Plan
        -         HMSA HMO Plan
        -         Kaiser Basic Plan
        -         Kaiser Comprehensive Plan
    4. Copy of your Payroll Notification Form (PNF) OR MEMO from your department confirming appropriate start & end date (include department contact person)
      1. This shows the dates that you will be covered
    5. Proof of repatriation and medical evacuation insurance

      You have to purchase separate repatriation & medical evacuation insurance. Some companies that sell this type of insurance are: International SOS and Basic Emergency Travel Assistance (BETA); HOWEVER, you can purchase this coverage from any company of your choice as long as it meets the minimum requirements ($7,500 USD for repatriation & at least $10,000 USD for medical evacuation.

      Documentation (proof of insurnace) should include:

      -       Insurance company's name
      -       Plan subscriber's name
      -       Plan start and end dates
      -       Dollar amounts of coverage ($7,500 USD for repatriation & at least $10,000 USD for medical evacuation)

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How do I receive health insurance clearance for all other insurance plans?  *all other insurance plans, including other HMSA plans (does not include EUTF or the UH Student Plan)

If you choose another insurance plan, you will need to submit the following:

  1. Other HMSA Plans (not UH Student Plan or EUTF plan)

    1. F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider
       Certification Form
         a. Student needs to complete & sign the top portion of
             the form
         b. Insurance company needs to complete & sign the
             bottom portion of the form
             •   Form can be faxed to HMSA at (808) 948-6653;
                 attention: E. Oshimo
  2. All Other Insurance Plans
    1.   F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider
         Certification Form
         a.   Student needs to complete & sign the top portion
               of the form
         b.   Insurance company need to complete & sign the
               bottom portion of the form

IMPORTANT:  If your plan does not meet the minimum levels of coverage required or your insurance company will not complete and sign the F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider Certification Form, then your plan will not be accepted for medical clearance.


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Where do I submit my insurance forms?

Your insurance documentation may be faxed, mailed, e-mailed, or personally delivered to the Student Health Insurance Office.

University of Hawai’i Manoa
 Queen Lili'uokalani Center for Student Services, Room 313D
 2600 Campus Road
 Honolulu , HI 96822
 Fax:  (808) 956-6371
Email:  shio@hawaii.edu     


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Once I submit my insurance forms, how will I find out if my plan was approved?

You will be notified within 1 – 3 business days if your health insurance is approved, denied, or if further information is needed to make that determination.

IMPORTANT:  Due to the large number of students who will be requiring insurance clearance each semester, students should submit their forms early to avoid not being able to register, add and drop courses.  We recommend submitting your forms at least 2 weeks prior to student registration/add/drop period.

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Once I submit my insurance forms, how long does it take to receive my insurance clearance?

You will be notified within 1 – 3 business days if your health insurance is approved, denied, or if further information is needed to make that determination.

IMPORTANT:  Due to the large number of students who will be requiring insurance clearance each semester, students should submit their forms early to avoid not being able to register, add and drop courses.  We recommend submitting your forms at least 2 weeks prior to student registration/add/drop period.

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What happens if my insurance plan does not meet all of the University's minimum requirements?

If your plan does not meet the minimum levels of coverage required then your plan will not be accepted for medical clearance.

Options:

  1. Find another insurance company who has plans that meet the minimum requirements and is willing to complete the required form, certifying that the policy meets all of the minimum health insurance coverage requirements.
  2. Purchase the UH endorsed student health insurance policy (www.hmsa.com/portal/student)


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What happens if my insurance company will not complete and sign the required form?

The University of Hawai’i Manoa requires all students to submit a completed & signed F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider Certification Form.  We do not review insurance policies and so your insurance company is required to confirm that your policy is in compliance with the school's requirements by initialing each requirement and signing the form.

Each country, insurance company and benefit plan is different.  Because of this we were having a very difficult time verifying if each student’s insurance plan met the university minimum requirements. With the approval of the UH Office of the General Counsel, the Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider Certification Form was implemented.  With this form, the responsibility for certifying that the student's health insurance coverage meets minimum coverage requirements falls on the shoulders of the health insurance providers - not the students, not the parents, not the school. 

Without the completed provider certification we will be unable to accept your current insurance plan. 

Options:

  1. Find another insurance company who has plans that meet the minimum requirements and is willing to complete the required form, certifying that the policy meets all of the minimum health insurance coverage requirements.
  2. Purchase the UH endorsed student health insurance policy (www.hmsa.com/portal/student)


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What happens if I do not receive health insurance clearance?

International students who are not enrolled in a health insurance plan that meets the University’s minimum coverage requirements will be subject to University sanctions, including but not limited to registration/ID card holds, until enrollment is complete.

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Do I need health insurance clearance if I am an F-1 student, but not physically at UHM?

As long as you are considered an F-1 student at University of Hawai'i Manoa (UHM) then you are required to have health insurance that meets the University's minimum requirements.

However, if you will not physically be in the United States then you can request a waiver (example: you are enrolled at UHM, but you are in your home country working on your thesis.)

If you are requesting a waiver to UHM's health insurance requirement because you will not physically be in the United States, submit the items listed below to the Student Health Insurance Office for consideration:

  1. A completed & signed F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Waiver Form.
  2. A letter from your UHM academic advisor or the UHM International Student Services Office, confirming that, although you are registered, you will not be physically in the United States this semester.



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UH STUDENT PLAN QUESTIONS

IMPORTANT FOR CURRENT UH STUDENT PLAN MEMBERS (enrolled during Spring 2013): 


How do I renew my plan for the Summer 2013 session?

Bill for Summer 2013 Insurance Premiums: HMSA will mail your bill for the Summer 2013 insurance premium around April 12.  The bill will be mailed to the address that you put on your application form (unless you notified them of any changes after your initial enrollment).

If you still meet the eligibility requirements and would like to continue your Student Health Insurance Plan, simply pay the bill by May 1, 2013.  Payment should be made directly to HMSA with your bill or you can make your payment online starting April 22.  REMINDER: online payment is by credit card only and also includes an additional $10 processing fee.

IMPORTANT:  If you do not receive your bill by April 22, please contact HMSA's Customer Service Department at (808) 948-6111.  If you do not pay by May 1, your Student Plan will be cancelled as of May 20, 2013 (last day of coverage May 19, 2013) and you will have to reapply as "new" for the Summer session if you meet the eligibility requirements.

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Are there any changes for the upcoming coverage period?

Any rate and plan changes/updates can be found throughout the year at: www.hmsa.com/portal/student


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:: Eligibility ::


Who can enroll on the student plan (eligibility)?

Students must be enrolled at least half time in the University of Hawaii system (Hilo, Manoa, West Oahu and all community colleges). This means a minimum of six credits (undergraduates) or four credits (graduate students) are required each fall and spring semesters and three credits during the summer session.

Exceptions: Students taking less than the minimum credits required may enroll on the plan if the class(es) being taken are all that is required to graduate. A letter from the student's department/advisor confirming this should be attached and mailed with the HMSA application and payment. Also, one credit of thesis (700) or dissertation (800) research meets the minimum eligibility requirement.

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If I am doing my OPT can I enroll on the student plan?

No, because OPT students do not meet the eligibility requirements.

Students must be enrolled at least half time in the University of Hawaii system ( Hilo , Manoa, West Oahu and all community colleges). This means a minimum of six credits (undergraduates) or four credits (graduate students) are required each fall and spring semesters and three credits during the summer session.

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How do I prove that I am eligible for the student plan?

  • Enrolling Online - UH Student ID number is required and HMSA will verify your eligibility with UH.
  • Enrolling by Hard Copy (mail or in person at HMSA) - A copy of your class schedule (with credit hours) for the semester that you are applying for is required (example: if applying for the fall semester, a copy of your fall class schedule is required).
  • Exception - For students taking less than the required minimum credits (because that is all they need to graduate), you need to submit a copy of your class schedule (with credit hours) for the semester that you are applying for (example: if applying for the fall semester, a copy of your fall class schedule is required) AND you also need to submit a letter from your advisor confirming that you only need this class to graduate.


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When do I need to show proof that I am eligible for the student plan?

Eligibility is checked when you first enroll on the student plan, if you are cancelled and have to reapply for the student plan and every fall.

Please be aware that your eligibility for the student plan is monitored throughout the semester(s).

Periodically HMSA and UH perform a recertification of eligibility which may occur after the semester is already in progress. If UH is not able to confirm your eligibility, HMSA will contact you to request a copy of your current class schedule with credit hours. If you are unable to furnish a copy of your current class schedule or do not have the appropriate number of credit hours, your coverage will be terminated retroactive back to the effective date of the semester. All claims paid on your behalf will be deducted from any refund you may receive.

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If I withdraw from school, am I still eligible to stay on the student plan?

No. You are eligible for student insurance only while enrolled in school and taking the minimum number of credits required. Once you notify HMSA of your withdrawal date, a refund for the coverage paid for but not used will be processed and mailed to you. Go to www.hmsa.com/portal/student for cancellation information.

For those students who are no longer eligible for the UH Student Plan, HMSA does offer an individual conversion plan which you can remain on for up to 6 months. The conversion plan covers medical only and is more expensive than the student plan. Contact HMSA’s Community Sales & Services for more information (808-948-5555).

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Can I stay on the student plan after I graduate from UH?

No. You are eligible for student insurance only while enrolled in school and taking the minimum number of credits required.

For those students who are no longer eligible for the UH Student Plan, HMSA does offer an individual conversion plan which you can remain on for up to 6 months. The conversion plan covers medical only and is more expensive than the student plan. Contact HMSA’s Community Sales & Services for more information (808-948-5555).

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:: Plan Benefits & Provider Network ::


What are the plan options and benefits of the student plan?

*Repatriation coverage is required for international students.

Plan Options

Covered Benefits

Option #1

Medical Only

Option #2

Medical with Repatriation, Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)

Option #3

Medical with Drug

Option #4

Medical with Drug, Repatriation, Life and AD&D
Option #5 Medical with Dental
Option #6 Medical with Dental, Repatration, Life and AD&D
Option #7 Medical with Drug and Dental
Option #8 Medical with Drug, Dental, Repatriation, Life and AD&D

For more details on the plan benefits go to www.hmsa.com/portal/student and click on Benefit Summary and/or Guide to Benefits.

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Which benefit option meets the University's insurance requirements?

Option #2 (Medical with Repatriation, Life and AD&D), option #4 (Medical with Drug, Repatriation, Life and AD&D), option #6 (Medical with Dental, Repatriation, Life and AD&D) and option #8 (Medical with Drug, Dental, Repatriation, Life and AD&D) meet the University's requirements.

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Can I switch my benefit plan option next semester?

No, you may only change benefit plan options during the annual open enrollment period which is every fall semester.

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Is prescription drug benefits covered through the student plan?

Prescription drug benefits are offered through the Student Plan. You'll receive a broad range of medication choices at a low (or reasonably low) price. To qualify you must also be enrolled in the University of Hawaii/Chaminade Student Medical Plan.

For more information go to www.hmsa.com/portal/student.

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Is dental benefits covered through the student plan?

Dental benefits are offered through the Student Plan. You'll receive comprehensive benefits at an affordable price for cleanings, X-rays, fillings, and major dental services. To qualify you must also be enrolled in the University of Hawaii/Chaminade Student Medical Plan.

For more information go to www.hmsa.com/portal/student.

If all you want is a cleaning, contact the UH School of Dental Hygiene.  As part of their curriculum, the students have to work in the clinic and during the fall and spring semesters they see UH students as well as the general community. There is a flat rate for cleanings and they are located on campus at Hemenway Hall room 200 (2445 Campus Road). Call 956-8229 for more information.

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Is vision benefits covered through the student plan?

No, vision benefits are not offered through the Student Plan. If you want vision, you can contact other insurance companies (i.e. Vision Service Plan – VSP) for information.

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Can I go to any health care provider?

Yes, but you will pay much less if you go to a HMSA participating provider. The large majority (96%) of health care providers and facilities in Hawaii, except Kaiser, are HMSA participating providers.

Go to www.hmsa.com/portal/student to see a list of HMSA’s participating providers.

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:: Plan Rates ::


How much does the student plan cost?

Plan Option

Description

Fall
2011

Spring
2012

Summer
2012

Option #1

Medical Only

$916.48

$972.44

$629.64

Option #2

Medical, Repatriation, Life & AD&D

$930.02

$986.80

$638.94

Option #3

Medical and Drug

$1,212.02

$1,286.02

$832.68

Option #4

Medical, Drug, Repatriation, Life & AD&D

$1,225.56

$1,300.38

$841.98
Option #5 Medical with Dental $1,083.29 $1,149.43 $744.24
Option #6 Medical with Dental, Repatriation, Life and AD&D $1,096.83 $1,163.79 $753.54
Option #7 Medical with Drug and Dental $1,397.69 $1,483.03 $960.24
Option #8 Medical with Drug, Dental, Repatriation, Life and AD&D $1,411.23 $1,497.39 $969.54

*Rates listed above are for the student only.  For additional rates (combination of semesters or 2-party or family rates) go to www.hmsa.com/portal/student and click on Rates.

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:: Enrollment ::


When can I sign up for the student plan and what are the coverage dates?

Enrollment is only accepted during the enrollment dates for each semester. Once the deadline has passed, you will no longer be able to enroll until the next semester.

Fall 2012

Spring 2013

Summer 2013

Enrollment Begins

7/20/12

12/3/12

4/22/13

Enrollment Deadline

9/17/12

2/4/13

6/7/13

Coverage Period

8/20 - 12/31/12

1/1 - 5/19/13

5/20 - 8/19/13

F-1 international students must enroll before the registration/add/drop period since registration holds will not be moved until you receive insurance clearance.

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Do I have to enroll in the plan for the whole year?

No, you can enroll by semesters (Fall 8/20-12/31/12; Spring 1/1-5/19/13; Summer 5/20-8/19/13) or a combination of semesters (Fall & Spring or Spring & Summer) or annually (Fall, Spring & Summer).

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How can I purchase the student plan?

There are 2 ways to enroll

  1. Online (www.hmsa.com/portal/student)
    UH Student ID number is needed to enroll online. Online enrollment requires payment by credit card (Mastercard or Visa) and a $10 credit card processing fee will be added to your insurance premium.
  2. Hard Copy (mail or in person at HMSA)
    Mail the completed & signed student plan application, USAble Life beneficiary form (if applying for benefit option #2, #4, #6, or #8), a copy of your class schedule (with credit hours) for the semester that you are applying and a check or money order (made payable to HMSA) for the entire semester’s premium to:

    HMSA
    6/AMS
    PO Box 860
    Honolulu, HI 96808-0860

    Application and beneficiary form can be found at the back of the benefit summary or it can be downloaded from the website (www.hmsa.com/portal/student).


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:: Dependents ::


Does the plan cover dependents?

Yes, you can purchase either an individual, two-party (student & 1 dependent) or a family plan (3 or more dependents). NOTE: dependent children are covered up to age 26.

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When can I add a dependent?

A dependent can be added to the Student Plan at 3 different times: 1) the same time when the subscriber is enrolling 2) within 31 days of a “life changing” event such as marriage or birth or 3) if you miss the 31 day window, then a dependent can only be added during the annual open enrollment period in July/August (fall semester).

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How do I add a dependent?

Subscriber must submit a letter to HMSA.

Letter must include:

  • Subscriber name
  • HMSA subscriber number
  • Phone number and address
  • Action to be taken: add spouse or newborn to plan (also include information below)
    • Spouse – include full name, date of birth & copy of marriage certificate
    • Newborn – include full name, date of birth & copy of birth certificate

Mail letter & documentation to:

HMSA
6 – AMS
Attn: UH/Chaminade Student Plan
PO Box 860
Honolulu, HI 96808-0860


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:: Cancellation ::


What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations/refunds will not be processed once the enrollment deadline has passed for each semester. If you want to cancel your coverage prior to the enrollment deadline, you need to submit a letter requesting your cancellation and refund to the address below:

Individuals who drop out of UH will not be covered under this plan and claims will not be paid. Should you withdraw from school & need a refund, you need to submit your request in writing with a letter from your campus registrar documenting your withdrawal date and send it to the address below:

HMSA
6 – AMS
Attn: UH/Chaminade Student Plan
PO Box 860
Honolulu, HI 96808-0860


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:: Who to Contact ::


If I need to speak to someone about the plan who can I call?

If you are not a student plan member and have a question, need more information or want to apply, you can call HMSA’s Community Sales & Service Dept. at (808) 948-5555.

If you are currently on the student plan and have questions regarding your benefits, claims, or bill you can call HMSA’s Customer Service Dept. at (808) 948-6111 or 1-800-776-4672.

For questions regarding the UH Student Plan or insurance requirement for UH Manoa F-1 international students you can contact the Student Health Insurance Coordinator at (808) 956-5361 or shio@hawaii.edu.

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OTHER INSURANCE PLAN QUESTIONS


Can you recommend other insurance plans or companies?

Since the UH endorses HMSA, University officials do not “recommend” other plans.  The health insurance marketplace is large and constantly changing.  It is your responsibility to carefully review benefits and exclusions of specific plans to determine if that plan will suit your needs.

Additionally, the health insurance company you select must certify on the F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider Certification Form that your plan meets the University’s minimum coverage standards.

IMPORTANT:  If your plan does not meet the minimum levels of coverage required or your insurance company will not complete and sign the F-1 Student Acknowledgement & Insurance Provider Certification Form, then your plan will not be accepted for medical clearance.

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What about other insurance plans that appear to be comparable and more affordable?

Some plans may appear comparable, but in fact they do not meet UH’s minimum requirements or state and federal mandates and they have limitations in their benefits (example:  only emergency coverage for  mental health or exclusions for pre-existing conditions).

Some of these plans seem less expensive because they do not cover many of the expenses you will incur if you need medical care. Examples of these limitations are: daily hospital limits of $500- $1000, maximum ambulance payments of $150, deductibles for each visit/occurrence, and either exclusions or pre-existing condition clauses that are longer than 6 months.  These plans do not provide adequate coverage to protect you while you are attending UH.

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Last Updated: 03.18.2013