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OSHC is mandatory for international students. Here's how to understand and use it properly.

What Is OSHC?

Overseas Student Health Cover is health insurance required by your student visa. It covers essential medical care during your stay.

Approved Providers

Only these companies can provide OSHC:

• Allianz Care Australia
• BUPA Australia
• Medibank
• NIB
• AHM
• CBHS

Your education provider may have a preferred provider, but you can usually choose your own.

What's Covered

Included

Medical:

• Doctor visits
• Hospital treatment
• Prescriptions (PBS listed)
• Blood tests, X-rays
• Emergency ambulance

Mental Health:

• Psychiatrist visits
• Some psychology sessions

NOT Covered

• Dental (regular)
• Optical (glasses)
• Physiotherapy
• Pre-existing conditions (waiting periods apply)
• Cosmetic procedures
• Out-of-hospital pharmacy (often)

How to Use OSHC

At a Doctor (GP)

Bulk billing clinics (recommended):

1. Show your OSHC card
2. Doctor bills insurer directly
3. You pay nothing

Non-bulk billing:

1. Pay upfront
2. Get receipt
3. Claim through insurer (app/online)
4. Receive reimbursement

At Hospital

Public hospital emergency:

• Show your OSHC card
• Usually covered in full

Private hospital:

• Check with insurer first
• May have gap payments

Getting Prescriptions

1. Doctor writes prescription
2. Take to pharmacy
3. Pay for medicine
4. Claim back (for PBS-listed items)

Costs and Comparison

Average Single Cover

$450-600/year

Things That Affect Price

• Single vs couple/family
• Provider
• Extras (dental, optical add-ons)
• Length of cover

Comparing Providers

All OSHC provides minimum coverage, but differ in:

• Claim process (app quality)
• Customer service
• Extra benefits
• Network of providers

Saving Money

Choose Bulk Billing

Always ask if a GP or clinic bulk bills — you pay nothing.

Use Network Providers

Some insurers have preferred networks with lower gaps.

Claim Promptly

Don't let receipts pile up — claim within the time limit.

Compare at Renewal

OSHC is competitive — compare prices when renewing.

Important Rules

Keep It Valid

• Coverage must match your visa duration
• Gaps in coverage can affect your visa
• Extend before it expires

Waiting Periods

Some conditions have waiting periods:

• Pre-existing conditions: 12 months
• Pregnancy: 12 months
• Mental health: 2 months

When Starting Course

Your OSHC should be active from your course start date (or arrival if earlier).

What If I Need Treatment?

Non-Emergency

1. Find a GP (bulk billing preferred)
2. Book appointment
3. Bring OSHC card
4. Follow treatment plan

Emergency

1. Call 000 or go to emergency department
2. Treatment first, insurance later
3. Show OSHC card when asked
4. Keep all documentation

Mental Health

• Many OSHC plans cover psychiatrist visits
• Check your specific cover for psychology
• University counselling is often free

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Pro tip: Download your OSHC provider's app. It makes claims easy and helps you find bulk-billing doctors nearby. Keep your card in your wallet alongside your ID.