Activating Your UHIP: First Step on Arrival

If you're starting school in Canada, sorting out UHIP should be one of your first tasks. Most universities enroll you automatically when you register, but it's worth confirming your enrollment yourself rather than assuming it's done.

A valid UHIP card isn't just paperwork. It's what gets you in the door for medical care in Canada, so keep it on you the same way you'd carry a student ID or driver's licence.

What UHIP Covers

UHIP is the basic health insurance international students get in Canada. It works a lot like OHIP does for Ontario residents and covers things like doctor visits, hospital emergencies, surgeries, and most medical tests. It doesn't cover everything though, so it pays to skim the plan details before you need to use it. That way you're not caught off guard at the front desk.

Finding Healthcare Providers

Your first stop is finding a clinic that accepts UHIP. Most university campuses have a health centre that does, which is the easiest option. Beyond campus, the Cowan Preferred Provider Network lists clinics that bill UHIP directly, so you don't have to pay up front and chase reimbursement.

Lab Tests and Imaging

UHIP coverage for lab work and imaging can be confusing. As a rule, basic lab tests like bloodwork and diagnostic imaging (x-rays, ultrasound, CT, MRI) are covered. Always confirm with your clinic or check the coverage details before booking, so you don't get surprised by a bill.

Getting Reimbursed

Sometimes you'll have to pay up front, especially for specialists outside the preferred network. UHIP will reimburse you if you submit a claim. Keep every receipt and file through the online portal. Reimbursements usually take a few weeks.

You can submit claims at clients.cowangroup.ca or by emailing case.mgmt@cowangroup.ca with these documents:

• UHIP claim form filled out and signed.
• A copy of your healthcare bill.
• The receipt for the services you paid for.
• A copy of your UHIP card.
  This will help in addressing your issue and ensuring you're reimbursed appropriately.

Emergency Room Visits

In a real emergency, UHIP covers what OHIP would for a Canadian.

If you end up in the ER, notify Cowan as soon as you can. Email case.mgmt@cowangroup.ca or call 1-833-377-8447. Show your UHIP card at the hospital and ask them to bill Cowan directly at UHIP rates. If the hospital isn't in the Preferred Provider Network, Cowan may transfer you to one that is, but only if your attending physician signs off. Keep in mind physicians often bill separately from the hospital itself. Non-emergency procedures like dialysis or cancer therapy need Cowan's pre-approval. Sign the hospital's consent form so they can process your claim, and confirm they have your UHIP details on file before you leave.

Telehealth as a Routine Option

Telehealth options like TeleTest handle non-emergency needs over secure messaging or video. Things like prescription refills, lab tests, and basic medical questions. For students with packed schedules, it's a faster way to deal with routine care from home.

What Routine Visits Cost

A walk-in clinic visit can run $75 to $100 for international students up front, and lab work is extra. You can claim reimbursement after, but the wait can be a pain and the bill stings in the meantime. Telehealth is often cheaper and quicker for routine stuff.

What's Not Included?

1. Treatment Aimed at Medical Tourism : UHIP does not cover treatment or surgery if you travel to Canada specifically to seek medical care, even if recommended by a physician.
2. Medical Tests for Immigration or Third Parties: Examinations and tests required for immigration purposes or requested by a third party are not covered.
3. Cosmetic Surgery: Cosmetic procedures are generally not covered, unless they are necessary due to an accident that occurs while you are covered by UHIP. In such cases, if the procedure would be covered by OHIP, UHIP may cover it too.
4. Non-Medical Expenses in Hospitals: Expenses like out-of-hospital food or accommodation aren’t covered.
5. Charges Covered by Another Plan: If the costs are eligible under a different insurance plan or would have been provided without cost if not insured, UHIP won't cover them.
6. Administrative Services: Costs associated with court testimony, preparation of records, reports, certificates, or communication are not included.
7. Dental Care: General dental services are excluded, except for specific conditions noted in the coverage details.
8. Supplemental Health Services: This includes services like prescription drugs, dental cleanings, eyeglasses, and acupuncture, which are not covered.
9. Drugs Outside of Hospital Stays: Medications administered outside a hospital stay are not covered. This also includes hospital visits solely for drug administration.
10. Non-Medical Professional Charges: Charges for travel time, mileage, or telephone advice are not included.
    11.Specific Lab Services: Only certain lab services or clinical pathology are covered, as specified in UHIP coverage details.
11. Travel Emergency Medical Services : If you exceed the maximum trip duration during an approved leave of absence, travel emergency medical services are not covered.
12. Excess Charges: Charges beyond what UHIP defines as reasonable and customary, or in excess of UHIP limits, are not covered.
13. Screening and Research Examinations: Physician services for screenings or research processes are excluded, except those covered by OHIP.
14. Private Nursing and Home Care: Private duty nursing is generally not covered, except under the home care benefit.
15. Services Outside OHIP Coverage: Services not covered by OHIP are generally not included in UHIP, unless specifically stated otherwise.

Know these exclusions so you don't end up with a surprise bill. The UHIP official website has the most current details on coverage and what isn't included.