What's New For 2013-14

Every year Columbia Health re-evaluates the benefits of the Columbia Student Medical Insurance Plan, making adjustments and negotiating changes as necessary so as to offer the most cost-effective appropriate coverage possible.

Below are the benefit modifications for the 2013-14 plan year:

Compliance with HHS regulations for student health insurance including the following increases:

• Basic Plan maximum up to $500,000
• Prescription drug benefits in the Basic and Comprehensive plans up to $500,000

• $500 out-of-network deductible added to both the Basic and Comprehensive plans

• Medical and mental health care obtained 50 miles or more away from Columbia Health, on the Morningside Campus, no longer require a referral in advance of service.

Waiver Criteria Changes

• Policy year maximum benefit level increased from $300,000 to $500,000
• Plan deductible cannot be more than $2,000 per individual or $4,000 per family
• Inpatient mental health and substance abuse must be covered for a minimum of 30 days
• Outpatient mental health and substance abuse must be covered for a minimum of 20 visits per year