HealthCompare Helps Incoming College Freshman and Their Parents Sort Through Their Health Insurance

Online, July 19, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Health Compare, an online health insurance comparison site has released this list of student health insurance options for new and returning college students and their parents. Being protected by a medical insurance plan can offer students protection from ruinously high medical bills should they become seriously ill or injured as well as insure that they have access to health care.
Here are the top options for college health insurance:

1. Remain on your parent's plan. For those whose parents have good insurance policies, the cheapest health insurance option in college is usually to stay on their plan. This might not be a feasible option for those whose parents lack insurance, for those whose portion of the premiums are high or for those who do not have a cordial relationship with their parents.

2. Another college health insurance option for some are policies offered by the institution. These are usually affordable but coverage might be limited. Be sure to read through the fine print and make sure you understand exactly what is covered and what is not.

3. Many students work through school these days. Several employers offer benefits to part time employees which could be a wonderful option for college health insurance. Employer sponsored plans tend to have lower premiums (at least the portion the employee pays) and excellent coverage. If you are looking for a part time job, be sure to ask if benefits are offered and what are the conditions for qualifying.

4. Students can also buy their own policies to fulfill their need for individual health insurance. While a lot has been said about the expense of medical coverage, the good news is that premiums for young, healthy adults tend to be very low.

5. If you have a pre-existing condition that makes it difficult, impossible or prohibitively expensive to get college health insurance, contact your state's department of health and human services to find out what programs are offered to those in your position. You will never know what is available until you ask!

Students and parents who wish to purchase individual health insurance can find and compare plans by visiting healthcompare.com.