Health and Medical Insurance
Medications
Drugs of any kind, whether prescription or over-the-counter, are almost always prohibited in international mail. Please be sure your student has all the required medications he or she will need for the entire time abroad. The Office of the Registrar can issue a letter certifying participation in a UW-Madison study abroad program. If necessary, the International Programs office can write an explanatory letter to insurance companies asking for a waiver of the limited supply rule.
Alcohol
As with many customs, cross-cultural differences exist in the consumption of alcohol. Depending on the host country, students may find the availability and public consumption of alcohol greatly increased or decreased. Often, rules about the acceptability of alcohol use in certain situations or contexts are very different than at home.
If students are in recovery, or think they may have a problem, we encourage them to contact an International Programs staff member with whom they feel comfortable, so that we can pursue finding support contacts at the program site. Also, please be aware that there are Alcoholics Anonymous meetings internationally which are held in many cities abroad.
Alcohol Use for Women Abroad
Please be aware that the over consumption of alcohol can especially put women in unsafe circumstances. Women who are publicly drunk may be looked at differently abroad than in the U.S. In many countries, a woman who is publicly drunk is looked upon as "loose" or "unladylike" or inviting advances from men.
Illegal Drug Use
Illegal drug use and possession are serious crimes. While drugs in some countries may seem easily available, this does not mean they are legal. Penalties for use or possession of illegal drugs can include jail terms, hard labor, and even the death penalty. If a student is arrested, he or she is subject to the host country's laws and neither the UW-Madison nor the U.S. Embassy can protect the student from the local legal consequences. In some places, even association with people possessing or using illegal drugs is considered the same as personal use or possession. While on a UW-Madison study abroad program, participants are responsible for obeying all local laws.
If International Programs hears reports that participants on its programs are using drugs or breaking other local laws, they will be confronted with the issue and may be asked to leave the program.
Eating Disorders
There are many cross-cultural differences in the meanings of food and in standards of beauty. Students with eating disorders may find these differences create additional challenges for them. A well-meaning host may insist on serving more food to students than they care to eat or someone may intend to compliment them by saying that they have put on weight. If your student contacts you and is upset about any of these issues, remind them that this is simply a reflection of the speaker's cultural beliefs and values.
Students with eating disorders should be sure to discuss their plans to study abroad with health care providers before leaving. We also encourage students to contact International Programs staff, so that we can pursue finding support networks at the program site.
AIDS and STDs
As in the U.S., students traveling abroad should take appropriate precautions to avoid exposure to the HIV virus and other sexually transmitted diseases. For more information, contact the CDC National AIDS Hotline at 1-800-342-AIDS, or the World Health Organization at 1-202-974-3000.
Food
Although in many countries food safety is not an issue, there are several countries in which one needs to exercise caution. There are some basic rules of thumb that should help your student stay healthy.
· Avoid uncooked food purchased from street vendors
· Be careful with dairy products that are not refrigerated or pasteurized
· Do not drink water unless you know that it is safe for drinking; bottled water is recommended
· Avoid ice cubes in soft drinks unless you know that the water is safe for drinking
· Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it!
These are all precautionary measures that students should use upon arrival. Once they are more comfortable with the country's culture and food, they may decide to be more liberal in approaches to food.
Dietary Needs for Vegetarians
Vegetarians or students on a special diet should be aware that their dietary needs might not be easily met in some countries. Be sure to discuss this with your medical provider. Students may also wish to consult the guidebooks, which include information for vegetarians and others with special dietary needs.
Health Resources Abroad
For more information about emergency health procedures and precautions abroad, please visit the World Health Organization and the Center for Disease Control.
Medical Insurance and CISI
Medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide for payment of medical services outside the United States. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas may face extreme difficulties. That is why the University of Wisconsin System has mandated that all University of Wisconsin students studying/traveling abroad under a UW sponsored program must enroll in health insurance through Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI).
In addition, certain countries require that foreign students participating in study abroad programs purchase health insurance in their country; it is the students' responsibility to make sure that such a requirement is in effect for their study abroad program. Students can check with International Programs staff if they are not sure.
For Business School study abroad programs, the insurance is provided by Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) and is designed for the University of Wisconsin System study abroad and international exchange programs. Coverage duration varies by program location and term, but generally will start a day or two before the official program start date and terminate within a week or two of the program's conclusion. Participants may extend their coverage (if the student continues to travel after the academic program ends) by contacting Cultural Insurance Services International at 203-399-5130 or by writing to CISI at River Plaza, 9 West Broad Street, Stamford, CT 06902-3788. Please see the UW Risk Management web site or the World Class Coverage Plan brochure included in the student materials for additional information. This plan may be considered supplemental to a personal family plan.
If you need a letter explaining why your student needs an extra supply of medications, please contact Judy Symon Hanson, Co - Director.
If you need a full-time enrollment letter in order to maintain your current health insurance coverage for your student, please contact the Office of the Registar.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CISI Health Insurance
1. What are the terms of this insurance coverage?
This insurance provides a comprehensive package of medical benefits and emergency services specifically designed to address the risks associated with study abroad. The coverage is primary. Specific benefits include:
Medical Expense (accident/sickness) --
$500,000 per incident
Deductible -- Zero
Accidental Death/dismemberment -- $20,000
Emergency Medical Evacuation/Repatriation of Remains -- $250,000/100,000
Team Assist Plan (see below) -- Included
Emergency Family Reunion (see below) -- $10,000
Other coverage includes nervous/mental coverage-$10,000 outpatient/$20,000 inpatient.
The Team Assist Plan provides participants with assistance by telephone in the event that travel-related problems arise. This service is available worldwide 24 hours a day at no extra charge to the participant. The Assistance Provider will coordinate and answer all questions related to claims, medical assistance, travel assistance, and technical assistance.
The Emergency Family Reunion benefit provides one family member with coverage for travel to and lodging in the host country should the participant be hospitalized for at least seven days.
2. Who is this insurance intended for?
This insurance program is intended for any current faculty, staff, or student participating in international education activities sponsored by University of Wisconsin System. A student is any person who is registered for study in any UW System institution for the current academic period.
3. Am I required to purchase this insurance?
All University of Wisconsin students will be required to purchase this insurance when they participate in a university-sponsored international education experience outside the United States. The cost of the insurance is invoiced to each student. Faculty and staff are not required to purchase this insurance, but are encouraged to do so.
4. Are dependents eligible for this coverage?
No.
5. Does the insurance cover "Special students"?
Yes, all students who are currently enrolled at the time they engage in international education activities outside the United States are required to purchase this insurance.
6. Are there any age restrictions associated with this coverage?
No, this insurance applies to all age groups.
7. Does this policy provide coverage for acts of war or terrorism?
The insurance policy contains a comprehensive Security Evacuation coverage up to $250,000, but it also has an exclusion for acts of war, whether it has been officially been declared or not.
8. Can I get a refund if the trip is cancelled?
Yes, the company will refund the insurance fee if the trip is cancelled and will prorate the refund for insurance already paid if the trip is interrupted. All refunds for insurance are handled between CISI and the institution, not directly with trip participants. This policy does not provide coverage for trip cancellation or trip interruption. Since the insurance is included in the program fees, International Programs will handle the refund.
9. How soon do I need to enroll in the insurance program in order to ensure coverage?
You will automatically be enrolled in the insurance program once you have accepted a space in a School of Business program.
10. How do I get information on the levels and types of coverage?
You may obtain information on the health insurance program by clicking here.
11. What if I already have insurance for international travel?
This insurance is mandatory and will be supplemental to your primary coverage. There is no option to waive the insurance coverage.
12. What about programs that require students to buy insurance coverage through the host country? Can I get a waiver from the UW insurance requirement?
We are aware that some countries require the purchase of country insurance in order to secure an international student visa, and so purchase of the UW System policy may seem unnecessary. However, there are some important differences between the two types of coverage. Country insurance provides no benefit for medical evacuation and repatriation. Country insurance is specific to the host country, and will not provide coverage for participants who travel to other countries while studying abroad. For this reason, the UW System requirement will not be waived in these circumstances. However, some foreign consulates may issue student visas without requiring purchase of the country insurance if the participant can provide proof of coverage under a valid group plan. The sponsoring UW System institution and CISI will work with participants to provide proof of coverage letters for submission to consulates.
13. How much insurance do I have to buy?
This insurance coverage is purchased in one-month increments, where month is defined as any 30-day period. Coverage begins and ends according to the dates requested by International Programs at UW-Madison. If you wish to extend your coverage, please contact CISI directly.
14. How much does the insurance cost?
The monthly premium rate for 2009-2010 is $37.
15. How do I file a claim if something happens?
Individuals file claims directly with CISI. Prior to departure, all participants will receive an identification card and information explaining benefits under the program, including a claim form and instructions. Claims must be filed within 52 weeks of the reported incident, accident or illness.
All students should have adequate health insurance coverage for travel within, to and from their host country, and for visits to neighboring countries.
Physical Exams and Vaccinations
International Programs does not require students to have a physical exam before going abroad. However, it may be required for certain countries/visas. We do recommend that participants schedule a visit with their medical provider to discuss any concern; mild physical or psychological disorders can become serious under the stresses of life while studying abroad. We also recommend dental check-ups and complete any necessary dental work before you go abroad.
We urge participants to consult with their physician about any inoculations they should have before leaving for the countries in which they will be studying or visiting. The UHS has Travel CLinic for more information. It is ultimately the participant's responsibility to have all necessary shots. Inoculations should be recorded and certified in the yellow "International Certificate of Vaccination" pamphlet. These pamphlets are available from the Post Office or from physicians.
Prescriptions
Students who take prescription medicine regularly or expect to take any while away should take a sufficient supply along for the entire time abroad. Insurance companies may ask for a letter, which certifies that the student will be studying overseas. The Registrar's Office will issue this letter if you need it. In addition the International Programs office can also write a letter of participation.
Students should ask their doctor about the availability abroad of any prescription medicine they take regularly. Even if the prescription is available, it may be simpler to take an adequate supply along for the period abroad (provided it is not perishable). Be sure to keep all prescription medications in their original bottles to facilitate clearance through customs. In many countries, participants will also need to carry a letter from their physician, stating why they need the prescription medication. Other countries may require prior authorization for carrying medications into the country. Participants should also be sure to carry a copy of all current prescriptions, including that for eyeglasses. All prescription medicines should be packed in carry-on luggage in case the checked baggage is lost or delayed.
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