Find a NavigatorEspañol

Health insurance is essential for students, providing financial protection and access to medical care when needed. Young adults aged 18 to 24 have an uninsured rate of about 14%, higher than any other age group. Education levels also affect insurance coverage rates. Resources like HealthCare.gov and Cover Kansas help students in Kansas find affordable health plans.

Understanding the Health Insurance Landscape

As of 2024, around 8.2% of Americans are uninsured, leaving approximately 26 million people without health coverage. Public insurance covers about 44% of children, highlighting the importance of government programs. Despite available resources, many young adults remain uninsured, especially in states like Texas and Mississippi. Staying informed about health insurance options is crucial for students.

Health Insurance Options for Students

Students have several options for obtaining health insurance. One option is staying on a parent’s health insurance plan. Students under 26 can remain on their parents’ plans, which is often convenient and cost-effective regardless of employment or student status. It’s important to verify that the plan covers medical services where you attend school, especially if studying out of state, and to assess whether it meets your healthcare needs, including access to local doctors and hospitals.

Another option is purchasing individual health plans through the ACA Marketplace on HealthCare.gov. This platform offers a wide range of plans to fit different budgets and health needs. Students may qualify for financial assistance that lowers monthly premiums, making coverage more affordable. The Marketplace allows you to select plans that include services important to you, such as mental health care or specialist visits.

Understanding eligibility for subsidies is important when considering Marketplace plans. Subsidies depend on income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), so meeting certain income thresholds is necessary to qualify. Eligibility criteria include being a U.S. resident without access to affordable employer-sponsored insurance, and married students should file taxes jointly.

Application Process

When applying for a Marketplace plan, follow these steps:

  1. Provide Accurate Income Information: Dependent students should report parental income; independent students report their own.
  2. Use Subsidy Calculators: Tools on HealthCare.gov can estimate potential subsidies and plan costs.
  3. Check for Special Enrollment Periods: If you’re relocating for school, you may qualify for enrollment outside the standard period.

For low-income students, Kansas offers Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) through KanCare. These programs provide comprehensive coverage, including doctor visits, hospital stays, mental health services, and preventive care. Eligibility is based on income and household size, so students from low-income families may qualify. Policies now allow 12 months of uninterrupted eligibility, offering stable coverage.

Another option for students under 30 is catastrophic health plans. These plans have lower premiums and are designed to protect against high medical costs from serious illnesses or accidents. They come with high deductibles, meaning you’ll pay more out of pocket before insurance starts covering expenses. After meeting the deductible, these plans cover necessary health services and include three primary care visits per year before the deductible.

Tips for Choosing the Right Health Insurance Plan

Consider the following when selecting a health insurance plan:

  1. Assess Your Healthcare Needs: Think about how often you visit the doctor and any ongoing medical conditions.
  2. Evaluate Costs: Look at premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums to understand potential expenses.
  3. Check Provider Networks: Ensure your preferred doctors and hospitals are in-network to avoid extra charges.
  4. Consider Location: If studying out of state, make sure the plan offers coverage in that area.
  5. Utilize Available Resources: Use tools like subsidy calculators and seek assistance if needed.

How Cover Kansas Can Help with Health Insurance for Students

Cover Kansas provides free, personalized assistance to students seeking health insurance. Certified navigators help you understand plan options and guide you through the application process. They offer assistance with HealthCare.gov, including subsidy eligibility and required documents, and provide impartial advice to help you make informed decisions.

your needs and budget. Using resources like HealthCare.gov and Cover Kansas makes the process easier, allowing you to focus on your education with peace of mind.