Health Insurance Resources for International Students
Important Guidance
International students on an F-1 visa do not have any government-related health insurance requirements to meet when studying in the USA. With this in mind, and because having adequate health insurance is so important, F-1 visa holders and their dependents should consider any ongoing health needs or unforeseen medical circumstances that may arise.
Mercy University does not require F-1 students to purchase health insurance, but it is highly recommended. Purchasing appropriate insurance is the only way to protect against unforeseen medical bills.
Please see below for a few options that international students have used before. Please look through the plans and identify which one works best for you!
Keep in mind that health insurance is entirely different from “travel insurance”or “catastrophic insurance.” Health insurance will allow you to be covered for doctor or hospital visits and prescription medications.
For more information on selecting a health insurance provider, understanding the U.S.Healthcare system, and more, visit this link: https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/explained/
Free On-Campus Resources
The Health and Wellness Office is a safe, confidential place where students canreceive limited primary care servicesincluding evaluation and treatment forcommon minor injuries and illnesses,preventive care, health education andreferrals to local specialists or hospitals asneeded.
The office is staffed by a Family NursePractitioner and Registered Nurses.
There are no fees for the services in theStudent Health Office. Students areencouraged to contact the office toschedule an appointment. Walk-ins areaccepted as space allows. Emergencies always take priority.
Services include: blood pressure screening, emergency care, episodic treatment, health counseling, immunizations, limited over-the-counter medications, limited prescription services, referral services to local specialists/hospitals, tuberculosis screening, suture removal, reproductive health/sexually transmitted infection screening/treatment/referral, and diagnostic testing and lab work (laboratory will bill insurance or student directly)
Health Services can be reached at (914) 674-7255. To schedule a new counseling appointment or for general inquiries, call (914) 888-5150.
The Student Counseling Services Office offers psychological evaluation and brief treatment lasting one to eight sessions. Students in need of more intensive treatment are referred tolocal hospitals and clinics for long-term psychotherapy and/or medication.
College students come to the Counseling Services office with mental health issues includingincreased stress, depression and anxiety as well as concerns about their academic progress,daily living, adjustment to college and relationships with others. Counseling can be an opportunity for students to talk about issues with an objective personwho can help them develop skills and view situations in ways that may enable them to bemore effective in managing life's challenges down the road.