Navigating medical claims and reimbursements

With most student insurance, you pay at the visit and get money back later. Doing it right means you actually get paid. STEP BY STEP • Pay for the visit and ask for an itemized receipt. • Ask the doctor for a medical report that states the diagnosis and treatment. • Fill out your insurer's claim form. • Submit the form, receipts, and report by email, mail, or the insurer's portal. • Follow up if you do not hear back. TIPS • Keep every document. Take photos with your phone. • Know your deadline. Some insurers require claims within 30 or 60 days. • Receipts should show the date, the provider, what was done, and the amount. • Ask whether you need pre-approval for bigger procedures. WATCH OUT FOR • Translation: some insurers ask for English or translated documents. Ask the clinic to supply English if possible. • Partial reimbursement is normal. Ask what percentage you will receive.