Note: Some schools may require you to actively opt-out (“waive out”) of a SHIP by filling out a form.

• The quality of student health plans can vary. Check out the details: read the rules about benefits, limits and caps, pre-existing conditions, preventive care, prescription drug coverage, deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance.
• Compare the coverage and price to the coverage and price of other options.
• Check if your alternative options have in-network doctors in your school’s area. Often, only your SHIP is accepted on a campus health center.
• Consider your parent’s plan: would there be out-of-network charges to see doctors near school? Can you pay that? Can you wait to see a doctor until you’re home?
• Review any health care that your school gives all students, regardless of whether they buy the SHIP.  Separate fees charged automatically to students often cover this, allowing you to stay on a parent’s plan for larger issues.
• Ask yourself: which coverage option is the better bargain? Which has the most coverage? Which better fits your medical situation?

For more information call Health Help Mississippi at 1-877-314-3843