Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) to use the Health Center?
No, it is not necessary to subscribe to the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) to be seen by a provider at Student Health Services. Medical Doctor, Nurse Practitioner and Registered Nurse visits at Student Health and Wellness Service are offered with no additional cost to students.
Some insurance plans do not cover services that a student may need or request while away at college. It is the student's or parent's responsibility to contact their health insurance provider to find out how the coverage works while a student is attending Swarthmore. If the student's health plan does not cover routine labs or screens through Labcorp, the student should consider getting routine exams through their insurance plans approved provider.
What does "hard waiver" mean?
Annually, all students are enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). The term "hard Waiver" means all students are required to show evidence of an existing health insurance policy to opt out of the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). Students are encouraged to compare SHIP against their private or state sponsored insurance plan. If no evidence of health insurance is provided to the waiver site, the student will remain enrolled in SHIP and the premium cost will be charged on the student tuition E-bill.
How do I waive SHIP annually?
ONLINE WAIVER PROCESS
To waive the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)
1. Log into mySwarthmore < Click Worth Health Center < Click Health Insurance Waiver
2. Complete Health Insurance Waiver Form (enter your current health insurance policy information)
3. Click Submit, you will receive an email with your confirmation number
Are there any discounts available for students that need financial assistance?
Yes, students who have no insurance or comparable insurance coverage from their parents or other sources are eligible for a discount based on the level of need-based Swat scholarship the student receives. The level of discount ranges from 25%-100% of the cost of the annual insurance premium. Highly aided students will have the full cost of the insurance premium covered by the College. You can estimate the insurance premium discount by comparing the amount of your most recent need-based financial aid award to total billed student charges. Students who are financially aided do not need to apply for or request the premium discount on student health insurance as it will be applied automatically on the July bill issued by the Student Accounts Office.
Will SHWS bill my private insurance for services?
Outside Laboratory studies will be billed through Labcorp. The Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) covers 90% of most lab fees in network. Students will be billed by the lab provider for the remaining cost and fees not covered by the insurance plan and are responsible for payment. Some health insurance plans will not cover lab fees out of their network or require pre-authorization for certain labs or referrals. It is the responsibility of the insured student to know their plan inclusions and limits.
In-house lab tests such as rapid strep test, pregnancy tests, mono-spots, etc. will incur a student health fee charge on their student account. Medical services not rendered at SHWS are billed through those individual medical providers, such as for emergency room care, radiology, specialists, etc. It is the responsibility of the insured student to contact their insurance provider for pre-certifications and/or referrals if needed.
My insurance information has not changed. Do I need to resubmit the information again?
Yes, Annually, all incoming and returning students are required to provide the Student Health Center with proof of health insurance coverage. This applies even if your insurance remains the same from last year. Annually, all students are enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). Before June 15th, you may waive out of the plan if you meet the requirements of the College and provide proof of health insurance.
What should I do if I receive bills for healthcare costs (ambulance, hospital, medication, etc) and am unsure what to do or are unable to pay?
Please contact Student Health & Wellness at health@swarthmore.edu. Many times the Health & Wellness Center is able to assist you with resolving a billing concern.
