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How to use your insurance plan

Make the most of your health insurance by understanding your coverage and preparing for your doctor visits. Avoid unexpected costs and get the care you need with ease.

Before you visit a provider

 

Get familiar with your health insurance plan and learn how to prepare for your doctor visit. This will help you avoid unexpected costs.

 

Look at your plan documents to check how you will be covered for your visit. Your plan documents list different kinds of provider visits and services along with how they are covered. This helps you check how much of the cost of your visit you may be responsible for paying. Remember, preventive care is covered at 100%.

Your plan documents also show the difference in cost between visiting in-network and out-of-network providers. You will notice that in-network is almost always the lower cost option. Before you visit a provider, make sure they are in-network to avoid higher costs.

When you go to the doctor, make sure to bring the following items:
 

  • Health plan ID card
  • Passport or other valid form of photo identification
  • Relevant medical records and list of current medications

Claims and payment

 

Unsure how claims and payment work for your health plan? Learn what to do during your provider visit and what to expect after it.

 

If you visit an in-network provider, they will submit your claim for you. If you visit an out-of-network provider, ask how your claim will be filed during your visit. Your provider may ask for payment immediately. If the provider does not file the claim directly with Aetna Student Health, then you must file the claim by submitting an itemized bill to us right after treatment. Your name, ID number, and school name should be written clearly on all medical bills. Always retain copies for your records. Keep in mind, there may be different forms for dental and vision claims.

The plan sends payment for what it covers directly to the hospital or doctor unless proof of payment is submitted with the claim.

Once a claim is processed, the plan mails you an Explanation of Benefits (EOB). It explains how much of the costs have been paid by your health plan and how much you may have to pay. The provider will then send you a bill for any remaining costs.

Contact us

Still have questions? Contact us for help.