Students studying abroad mix international cultural exchange with their education, enriching not just their lives, but also that of their classmates in the host country. However, dealing with an environment different than the one at home can put a tremendous strain on the health of a student, and it is best to be prepared with international student health insurance.

Having international student insurance only helps you with the finances; you must still ensure that you don’t fall ill abroad. The student must consult with his/her doctor a month or so before departure, to check for vaccinations that might be advisable for travel to the destination.

Even if you have missed consulting the doctor earlier, you will still be able to take most shots 15 days before you leave for the program. Purchasing international student insurance should also be on the agenda right about that time. Look for emergency medical coverage in your plan.

Before you leave, know the procedures and processes required for pre-certification and cashless billing, if available in your host country.If you do fall ill, this information will come in handy. The first consultation should preferably be at the college health center (if there is one), where treatment is free in some cases.

It is also advisable for the student to have a basic medical supplies kit handy. The kit must contain any regular medication, bandages, and basic over-the-counter medication such as anti-diarrhea medicine, acetaminophen, bug spray, and cold medication. Most international student medical insurance does not cover prescriptions for pre-existing conditions.

For an overview of the diseases prevalent in a region or country, or to know more about epidemics or health alerts in a country, the student can refer to the Centers for Disease Control site often. When abroad, remember to have on your person important medical history and allergy information. This can help you receive better care under your international student insurance.

International student insurance provides typical short-term benefits, mainly for unplanned medical situations. These include inpatient and outpatient care, surgery, diagnostics and prescriptions, ambulance services, and medical evacuation. Usually, pregnancy and pre-existing conditions are not covered.

However, insurance only takes care of the finances of an illness—it is always best that international student health insurance remains unused.