IntraAmerican Medical Consultants & Advocates
COLLEGE STUDENT HEALTHCARE SURVIVAL GUIDE
Know what to do before you need it.
1. Where to Go for Care
• Campus Health Center – First stop (low cost, convenient)
• Urgent Care – Minor illness/injury (faster, cheaper than ER)
• Emergency Room – Serious/life-threatening only
Tip: ER = $$$ | Urgent Care = $$ | Campus = $
2. Understand Your Insurance
• Are you on your parent’s plan?
• Know your in-network providers near campus
• Understand deductible, copay, and out-of-pocket max
Tip: Don’t wait until you’re sick to figure this out.
3. Don’t Pay That Bill Yet
• Check your Explanation of Benefits (EOB)
• Ask for an itemized bill
• Make sure insurance was billed
• Look for errors or duplicates
Tip: Most people overpay because they don’t ask questions.
4. Mental Health Matters
• Use campus counseling services
• Check insurance coverage for therapy
• Consider telehealth options
Tip: You don’t have to wait until it gets worse.
5. After a Hospital or Urgent Visit
• Understand discharge instructions
• Confirm medications clearly
• Schedule follow-up care
• Know who to call if symptoms change
Tip: The most important care happens after you leave.
6. Always Be Prepared
• Insurance card (photo on phone)
• Emergency contact
• List of medications
• Allergies
7. You Have Rights
• Ask questions
• Get a second opinion
• Appeal insurance denials
• Request itemized bills
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Using ER for non-emergencies
• Ignoring bills or paperwork
• Not understanding your insurance
• Waiting too long to seek care

Request a consultation or book a presentation.
954-532-1919 | IAMCgroup.biz
Advocacy • Education • Excellence