Australia offers a unique environment for those wishing to pursue educational opportunities with a vast range of quality colleges and universities to select from. Our consultants are specialized in cultural and educational exchange, providing a personalized plan according to your profile.
To facilitate the decisions and adaptation of the future exchange student, we offer the following services:
We have connections to a number of quality Universities and Colleges across a range of professional fields from Cookery to Legal Studies.
We have expertise in advising on the most appropriate visa options for you based on your unique circumstances.
What is OSHC for?
Australians own the public health system called Medicare and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover). This insurance allows students to have access to the same health services as an Australian. OSHC is mandatory insurance for international students applying for a student visa. The Department of Home Affairs requires international students to maintain insurance for the entire duration of the visa, including vacation.
The insurance aims to cover the costs of medical assistance (General Practitioner), hospital services and ambulance in case of emergency.
Difference between OSHC and travel insurance?
OSHC is a mandatory insurance for the student to be able to enter the country and it is activated from the moment the student arrives in Australia so it is only valid in Australian territory. Travel insurance is an extra service offered by insurance companies and is not mandatory.
How does OSHC work for student dependents?
If the student intends to travel with his/her family, it is necessary to take out the family policy. If the student wishes to travel with a couple visa, it is necessary to take out the couple policy.
Is full OSHC payment required before applying for a visa?
Yes, the insurance amount must be paid in full for the policy to be released by the insurance company before the student submits visa application documents to immigration.
Is it mandatory to renew OSHC when renewing a visa?
Yes, it is important that the student renews the insurance contract before the current contract expires. If the student is without insurance for a period, he will not be entitled to coverage.
How does OSHC coverage for appointments and exams work?
In Australia the Medicare healthcare system has a government-set value for all services. OSHC covers the difference between the amount established by the government and the amount charged by the doctor chosen by the student.
For example, the government-set fee for a consultation with a general practitioner is $60, but the student's chosen physician charges $100 for the consultation. The student must pay only the difference of $40. (The values shown are fictitious and may vary by doctor/office).
How to choose a practice to schedule an appointment?
Our consultants can guide the student about some clinics but it is possible to check on the insurance company's website which doctors are available depending on the student's location. Remembering that regardless of the health problem, it is necessary to make an appointment with the general practitioner so that the doctor can make the referral to a specialist.
Does insurance cover emergencies?
Yes, the student will be covered in emergencies but after admission to the hospital, if other exams are required, the insurance may cover a percentage of the expenses and the remainder will be paid by the student.
How to proceed in an emergency?
It is considered an emergency when the student is unable to move. If the student improperly requests an ambulance (when the student is able to go to the doctor on their own) this may incur extra costs for the student. Any emergency request is required to call 000.
Do I have to pay to be treated at the hospital in order to be reimbursed later?
Most hospitals and clinics request immediate payment. After the consultation, the student can request reimbursement through the insurance company's website, by email or by letter. On the website it is necessary to register with the student's personal data and bank account information, so the refund will be deposited directly at the registered bank.
Does OSHC cover pre-existing illnesses or pregnancy?
Yes, the student is covered for pre-existing illnesses and pregnancy, but a grace period under the plan, which is normally 12 months, is required. For psychiatric issues, the grace period is 2 months.
Is it possible to hire extra services from OSHC?
Yes, insurers offer the “extras” where the insurance covers services that are not included in the main OSHC coverage. Hiring extra services is indicated for those who want to stay a long period and different from the mandatory insurance, the amount is paid monthly. There are several types of extra coverage, the higher the value, the greater the coverage. Some of the services offered in the extra coverage are: dentist, physiotherapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture and natural therapies (please consult which services each insurance company offers).
How to choose the insurance company?
Our consultants will guide you through the entire process for contracting OSHC and will help you choose the most suitable insurance for your profile.
For more information, contact one of our consultants or your insurance company directly.
Oxcom Legal
Copyright © 2022 Oxcom Legal - All Rights Reserved.
Property Conveyancing Commercial Leasing Wills and Probate Corporate Law Legal Advisory