Securing Other Health Insurance

  1. If you plan to stay in Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Health Connector might be an option for you. The Health Connector offers health and dental plans from leading insurers in Massachusetts. You may qualify for MassHealth, tax credits to help pay premium costs, or other affordable Connector Plans.
  2. If you plan to live outside of Massachusetts, explore your options through Healthcare.gov. This U.S. Department of Health & Human Services site provides information on health insurance options by state; not all states have comprehensive health plans available without restrictions to new members.
  3. Family Members: research enrollment options through a family member. Your termination on the Student Health Insurance Plan may make you eligible to be added as a dependent of a spouse/partner’s or parent’s health plan.
  • How much do I have to pay for care? Are there deductibles, copayments, and/or a coinsurance percentage?
  • Are there pre-existing conditions, limitations, or exclusions?
  • What are the specific exclusions/limitations of the policy?
  • Is there a maximum out-of-pocket cost?
  • What is the extent of the network in size and location?
  • Do I have coverage for preventive care?
  • Is there a prescription drug benefit?
  • Is there a mental health benefit?
  • Is there a limit to the number of inpatient hospital days I am allowed?
  • How do I access services?
  • How do I obtain specialty care?
  • Are referrals required for specialist visits?

An HMO is a type of managed care health plan consisting of a network of doctors and hospitals dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable health care. When enrolled in an HMO, a primary care physician (PCP) coordinates all of your care and refers you to network specialists when needed.

An indemnity plan is a type of health plan that allows you to choose any doctor of your choice; however, the plan only pays part of your medical bills. Your out-of-pocket costs will be higher than with a managed care plan, and you will likely be required to pay upfront for services and then file for reimbursement.

A PPO plan is a type of managed care health plan that allows you to see any doctor of your choice, offering both in-network and out-of-network coverage. Under a PPO plan, your out-of-pocket costs will be lower when using in-network providers