Navigating healthcare in the United States can be a daunting task due to high costs. Without health insurance, many people find it difficult to afford medical procedures. I have heard of many internationals expressing their confusion and uncertainty when it comes to obtaining medical care and health insurance in the United States.

As an international student, you may be unfamiliar with the U.S. healthcare system. This post will provide a helpful overview of the many resources the University of Memphis offers and offer a few basics about the U.S. healthcare system from a former international student's perspective. Keep reading to learn more!

On Campus Resources:

• When it comes to health care, going to the University of Memphis' health center is a great option. Not only is it often free or low cost, it offers a variety of services including family planning, STI testing, immunizations, and sick visits. While the health center does not allow walk-ins, you can easily call or schedule an appointment online. If the health center cannot provide what you need, you can tell them what kind of insurance you have (or don't have) and they will refer you to the cheapest resource. This makes getting quality healthcare easy and affordable for students, so be sure to take advantage of all that the UofM health center has to offer!

• Did you know the UofM also offers free Counseling and mental health services? This might be beneficial for you as you navigate cultural changes, or if you experience something with your family while you are abroad. For example, I utilized their services when my grandmother passed away while I was far away from home.

• They recently implemented a relaxation zone, where you can use massage chairs and other resources for free. They also have tons of online resources as it relates to multiple subjects, such as COVID-19, wellness, alcohol, crisis and more. 

  Prevention is key. The resources are above are definitely going to be your first step, but, if you find yourself still desperate and you do need to leave campus for healthcare, here are some of the terms you might need to familiarize yourself with:

Premium: How much you pay each month for your health insurance. This usually does NOT include seeing any doctors, that falls under copays or deductibles. However, services on-campus are usually free. 

Copay: A set amount (fixed fee) you pay when you visit the doctor. 

Deductible: A set amount of money you pay out of your own money for covered services before your insurance starts to pay any money.

Pre-existing health condition: This term refers to a known illness, injury, or health condition that existed before someone enrolled in a health insurance plan. 

PCP: Primary care provider. This is usually the doctor you go to first when any health problem arises. You usually get to pick your own PCP, but if you need help, there are people on campus who can help you. Your PCP as a student is probably going to be at the UofM health center, since you would go here first. 

Specialist: This is a doctor who provides specialized care, such as a Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) doctor. They are specialized in a specific area of the body. Usually, to visit these doctors, you have to pay more money. Some insurances require you to go to a PCP (or family physician) first, before you see a specialist. 

In-Network / Out of network: All you need to know about this is that you can call your insurance company to see who is “in network” so you get the lowest cost for your care as possible. 

I hope this was a good start in helping you navigate the U.S. healthcare system. If you’re not sure where to start, or are still confused, you can also contact the international student office for help.

VIVIAN BRANDHOFF DANIS • THE NETHERLANDS

Vivian moved to Memphis from the Netherlands in 2011 to be a full-time student-athlete. She completed both her undergraduate degree in Sport & Leisure Management and her Master’s degree in Communication while throwing shot put and discus for the University of Memphis. VISA was the first organization that gave her many international friends, with most of whom she still enjoys hanging out with today. After meeting her American husband here, Vivian stayed in Memphis and now works part-time, while also being a full-time mom to her daughter Nora.