Columbia University Health Services

Please review your alternate coverage carefully to determine if the plan meets all six of the criteria listed below before going online to enter your request. To obtain specific information to determine if your plan is comparable, it is recommended that you review the policy documents provided by the carrier or contact the insurer directly. The University verifies the insurance information you provide.

Your alternate plan must meet ALL of the following six criteria:

1. My plan provides coverage for all medically necessary care including routine and emergency services while I am in New York City, or traveling or studying in the United States and abroad.
2. The maximum benefit for my coverage is at least $300,000 per lifetime.
3. My coverage will remain in force as long as I am a registered student, including approved leave of absence for medical reasons and non-degree status at Columbia University .
4. My coverage is effective as of September 1, 2008 (January 20, 2009 for new spring enrollees and June 1, 2009 for new summer enrollees) and the plan will cover me for any pre-existing conditions.
5. My plan covers all of the following types of care: treatment for injuries resulting from the practice or play of athletics, inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care and treatment for chemical dependency.
6. My coverage is provided by a company licensed to do business in the United States and has a U.S. claims office and telephone number. Foreign state government plans do NOT meet this requirement.

Please not that Medicaid plans are not considered comparable to the University’s plan.