Accident & Sickness Insurance
Insurance Arranged by InterExchange
ICs must arrange for students to purchase insurance through InterExchange.
Prices and coverage limitations will be sent to the IC.
Insurance must cover the period of time on the student’s DS-2019 Form. If students plan to travel, they must be covered by insurance since medical care is very expensive in the U.S. If a participant would like to purchase insurance for the 30-day travel period, they can inform their IC (before arrival) or contact InterExchange directly (after arrival).
Dental Care
We recommend that students have a dental exam before coming to the U.S., as dental care is very expensive. Dental care is not covered by the insurance unless it is a medical emergency.
Prescription Medication
Students should bring any medications they are currently taking with them, as the cost for prescription medicine in the U.S. can be expensive. The medications should include a letter from their doctor stating the medication is necessary.
Pre-Existing Conditions
InterExchange arranged insurance will not cover any medical problems or conditions that existed before coverage under this insurance began. Examples might include: sickness related to asthma, diabetes, depression, eating disorders, pregnancy/labor, routine examinations, cosmetic or dental surgery (unless it is necessary due to an accident), or any sort of eye examination. In the event that a participant is diagnosed with an illness or injury that requires ongoing treatment, he or she may be required to return to their country of origin to receive the necessary care.
Non-InterExchange Insurance
InterExchange strongly advises against insurance offered outside of InterExchange programs. Our staff will not be able to provide assistance regarding insurance if students are insured with other carriers. All insurance must comply with the U.S. Department of State standards. Students must be informed that InterExchange will not have information for alternate insurance providers; the students will need to have their alternate insurance information readily available in case of medical emergency. If students are not using InterExchange insurance, they will need to submit claims directly to that provider. If students opt for alternate providers, any medical claims will be rejected by the InterExchange insurance provider.
Having insurance in addition to that arranged by InterExchange could create a conflict in claims payment and it is not advisable to have supplemental insurance that may interfere with or negate the primary InterExchange arranged policy.
