At the price of $300.00 per year (August 15, 2011-August 15, 2012), it’s easy to see why most TCNJ students are enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) each semester. The majority of these students have other health insurance but choose to enroll in SHIP because of its value. One benefit is that there are no co-pays or deductibles. SHIP can be used as a stand-alone plan or as a supplement to other existing insurance. When using this policy in conjunction with other primary insurance, you must be certain to abide by all the terms and condition of your other policy. SHIP is in effect whether the student is at school or home year-round (if enrolled in both Fall and Spring semesters).  SHIP allows students to take full advantage of the healthcare services offered conveniently on campus by providing coverage for necessary diagnostic testing (x-rays, EKGs, lab tests, etc.), medical supplies (e.g., crutches, aircasts), vaccinations, AND prescription medicine.  Please refer to the plan brochure for a description of the benefits and limitations. All TCNJ students are still eligible to use Student Health Services regardless of insurance coverage.

Parents and students are encouraged to read the benefits of SHIP before waiving (opting out of) enrollment in the Plan.  This Plan is particularly important for undergraduate residential students because they frequent campus health care services the most.  Parents with plans that are HMOs and PPOs are reminded that the doctors and nurse practitioners in Student Health Services are not in any insurance provider network.  This means that x-rays and tests ordered by a Student Health Services’ provider may not be covered by your insurance plan.

If SHIP will be your only health insurance plan, we advise you to carefully read the limits and coverage provided by this Plan.  If you feel that you need more comprehensive coverage, Bollinger can assist you in obtaining an individual plan at a competitive price that may meet your needs.  Interested students can contact contact Larry Shoemaker, Senior Vice President, Bollinger Insurance, at (973) 921-8086 for quotes on individual health insurance policies.  You may also log on to the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance web site for information on individual health insurance, as well as Esurance.  Don’t forget to investigate whether or not you are a candidate for COBRA.