Should Allegheny students carry health insurance coverage?

Absolutely! Although many services at our Health Center are free (visits to the College physician or nurse practitioner), students may need throat cultures, X-rays, lab work, etc. It is a good idea to find out the extent of your policy's coverage out of your area. This is particularly important if you have an HMO or PPO (Preferred Provider Organization). Speak with your doctor about his/her willingness to approve out-of-town services. If your out-of-town coverage is not what you'd like it to be, you may purchase a supplementary policy through Allegheny at a reasonable cost. This helps to cover routine problems like sore throats and sprained ankles. International students on F-1 and J-1 visas are automatically enrolled in a health insurance plan that meets US federal government regulations. This insurance is also available to non-immigrant aliens with a different visa status (e.g., A-1, H-4). J-1 and F-1 students who do not want coverage through Allegheny must supply evidence that ...  more