Healthcare and Insurance

Unlike in many countries that bear the expense of health care for their residents, individuals in the United States are responsible for these expenses themselves. A single day of hospitalization can cost thousands of dollars. A good insurance policy gives you access to excellent medical facilities and provides protection against the enormous costs of health care.

It is not only unwise to be in the U.S. without adequate health insurance, for J-1 Exchange Visitors and their J-2 dependents it is also illegal! You and your family are required by federal law to have sickness and accident insurance for the duration of your program. Minimum coverage must provide medical benefits ($50,000 per accident or illness), a deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness, expenses associated with the medical evacuation to the home country ($10,000), and repatriation of remains ($7,500). If you will be receiving salary and benefits from the UW during your stay, that will cover the medical benefits requirement. However, note that many domestic health insurance policies, including policies provided by the UW to benefits-eligible employees, do not include medical evacuation and repatriation insurance, and you will have to purchase medical evacuation and repatriation coverage separately.

Make your insurance arrangements before coming to the U.S. Frequently, Exchange Visitors are able to obtain inexpensive international travel insurance that is available for purchase only in their home country. In the U.S. many insurance companies offer policies designed for Exchange Visitors, but benefits vary and policy details are often available only in English. It is important that you consider what type of coverage is needed and who will be included on the plan. For example, some policies cost less because they provide coverage only to the J-1 but do not provide coverage for J-2 dependents. Some policies exclude coverage for pregnancies, or coverage for care received in the home country. Before choosing a plan, carefully consider your personal and family health needs.

There are many insurance providers both within and outside the U.S., including those listed below. It is possible to enroll in most insurance plans by completing an on-line registration form, using a credit card for payment. The policies listed below do not represent an endorsement by the University of Washington. You are solely responsible for procuring and maintaining suitable health insurance.

• Gateway USA
• Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI)
• International Student Organization
• CMI

International SOS offers a policy that provides medical evacuation and repatriation benefits only.

At the Tuesday check-in, you must present to ISO a Statement of Compliance with the Insurance Requirements of the Exchange Visitor Program.

After you arrive in the U.S., choose a medical clinic and physician according to your health insurance provisions. Hall Health Center, conveniently located on the UW campus, is a preferred provider for many health insurance plans. It provides service to UW students, faculty, staff and the surrounding community. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Twenty-four hour care is available at several nearby hospitals, including the University of Washington Medical Center. For life-threatening emergencies, dial 911 on any telephone (9911 from a UW campus telephone).