Before going abroad...Remember your health

Starting a new life in a new place is always an adjustment. Starting a new life in a foreign country is a big adjustment. For international students studying in the States, or Americans venturing abroad, there are essential things to keep in mind before going global. Planning an extensive stay in a foreign country can be exciting, stressful and incredibly overwhelming at times. Travel accommodations, housing, and what to pack often overshadow the logistical items that matter most. Health insurance, medical coverage, and travel insurance are necessary parts of going abroad. Neglecting to include them could turn a minor injury into a giant hassle. People of the "it won't happen to me," mind-set, unfortunately, are often the ones who end up needing medical coverage the most. International students studying in the U.S. encounter a very different health system than what they are used to. Unlike public health care systems in other countries like Britain and Canada, most people in the U.S. depend on private insurance companies for medical needs and emergencies. Finding the insurance that works for you isn't always easy. As an international student, multiple plans are usually offered through the university sponsoring your education. However, these plans aren't always the cheapest, and often do not provide the most extensive coverage. The most important thing to remember before you leave your home country is to shop around for options. International Student Organization, (www.isoa.org) is a membership based organization started by former international students to fill the need for affordable international health and travel insurance. They offer an extensive selection of options for students in a variety of payment plans, as well as helpful outlines to determine which plan fits your financial and medical needs. ISO also covers the most important "items" in your life, your family. ISO's plans offer health coverage for international student's immediate family members. You can enter into a plan and manage your account online. ISO also has a variety of health and travel insurance options available for U.S students studying abroad. Getting health coverage before going overseas is essential to a safe and happy experience abroad. Without the appropriate insurance, the simplest thing could cost you. Look into the necessities you need before you leave your home country, and shop around to find the plan that fits your needs.