Health and Medical Insurance

In the US, each individual is responsible for paying the costs of his/her own medical care. The cost of medical care is the fastest rising expense in the US today. Medical insurance is an absolute necessity in the U.S.

There is a broad range of health care services in the local community. Depending on your needs and your employee status at UNC Charlotte, some of these services might be provided by the university at no extra cost to you. For other services, you may be required to pay a partial or full amount. Do not wait until you become ill to learn about these services; learn where and how to get care before you are in a situation which requires medical attention.

You and members of your family should have adequate health insurance coverage at all times. Medical care is extremely expensive; do not take risks which could leave you permanently in debt to a hospital or physician. Those health insurance plans which do not cover routine “check-ups”, eye glasses, or dental work will nonetheless cover partial payment for certain specific health problems.

Health Insurance

University

Health insurance through University Benefits Office: Those on J-1 and H-1B visa status with a faculty appointment for one academic year or more will generally receive health benefits provided by UNC Charlotte. The benefits become effective on the first day of appointment for academic-year appointments. An orientation conducted by Human Resources will explain health benefits in detail.

Those in J-1 and H-1B status who have appointments for less than one year or are being funded from a non-UNC Charlotte source, e.g., home government, are not eligible for university-sponsored health benefits, but they are required to have some sort of health coverage through an approved health insurance company.

International Underwriters

This provides short-term health insurance with a company whose plans are designated for participants in international education activities. Forms are available in the ISSO. Be sure to read them thoroughly before selecting an insurance plan appropriate for your needs.

Independent Agents

Finally, you may purchase health insurance through an independent insurance agent. Information can be found in the Yellow Pages under “Insurance”. You should obtain a written description of the policy before purchasing.

Please refer to the International Faculty and Scholar Handbook for a complete list of healthcare providers and facilities.