Read the following article or listen to the podcast to know more about OSHC
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What is OSHC, and Why Is It Mandatory?
OSHC is a health insurance policy specifically designed for international students studying in Australia. It ensures that students have access to necessary healthcare services without facing financial burdens.
Legal Requirement: Visa Condition 8501
To be eligible for a Subclass 500 Student Visa, you must maintain adequate health insurance for the entire duration of your stay in Australia. Failing to comply with this condition could result in visa cancellation or complications in visa renewals.
Key Benefits of OSHC
- Financial Protection: Without OSHC, healthcare costs in Australia can be exorbitant. A single hospital visit or emergency ambulance ride can cost thousands of dollars.
- Visa Compliance: OSHC fulfills the Australian Government’s requirement for international students.
- Peace of Mind: It ensures you have access to essential healthcare services, allowing you to focus on your studies.
What Does OSHC Cover?
OSHC policies are standardized to cover the basics of healthcare while offering additional benefits depending on the provider and plan. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Core Inclusions
-
Doctor’s Treatment (GP Visits):
- Full coverage for the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) fee.
- Specialist services (e.g., blood tests, X-rays) reimbursed up to 85% of the MBS fee.
-
Hospital Treatment:
- Covers accidents, emergencies, and elective procedures.
- Public hospital services are covered at a minimum of 100%.
- Agreements with private hospitals vary by provider.
-
Emergency Ambulance Services:
- Most policies cover ambulance transport for emergencies.
- Non-emergency transport is usually excluded.
-
Prescription Medications:
- Partial reimbursement for prescription medicines, subject to annual limits.
What’s Not Covered
- Dental, optical, and physiotherapy services (unless purchased as add-ons).
- Cosmetic or elective surgeries not deemed medically necessary.
Understanding OSHC Duration Rules
Coverage Must Match Visa Duration
Your OSHC policy must cover the entire duration of your visa, including any additional time granted for post-study travel. Below are the standard duration rules:
-
Courses Less Than 12 Months:
- Coverage must start from your arrival in Australia and last until your visa expires.
-
Courses More Than 12 Months:
- Coverage should extend through your entire course duration, plus any post-study visa allowance (usually 2–3 months).
-
Packaged Courses:
- If you’re taking multiple courses (e.g., ELICOS followed by a degree program), OSHC must cover the combined duration of all courses, including gaps.
-
Dependents:
- If you bring family members on your visa, you’ll need a family OSHC policy with matching coverage duration.
Avoiding Coverage Gaps
Gaps in coverage could lead to visa non-compliance. Always ensure your policy starts before your arrival and extends beyond the end of your studies.