Frequently Asked Questions about Mandatory Student Health Insurance

The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia contracted with Pearce & Pearce, Inc. to provide health insurance to students of Middle Georgia College. Two plans were made available- the mandatory policy for students identified below and an optional plan for all others. Students are encouraged to visit the web site at Pearce & Pearce for further information. The web site is www.studentinsurance.com.

General Questions

Q: Why do I have to have health insurance?
A: The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia mandated that all students falling in certain categories must be covered by adequate health insurance. In the past, many students purchased individual policies on their own believing they were adequately covered only to realize the policies purchased were inferior. Recognizing that this was a widespread problem, the University System grouped all colleges and universities under its directions and negotiated a very good plan at a comparatively low cost. We believe that good supplementary health insurance is in the best interest of all members of the MGC community.

Q: Who is included in the mandatory category?
A: The following students are required to have health insurance:

• Students enrolled in programs that require proof of insurance (e.g. nursing);
• International students holding F or J visas.

Q: When, where do I pay?
A: The premium has to be paid each semester before classes start. Students must pay the Business Office at Middle Georgia College. Please do not make your student health insurance payment to Pearce & Pearce.

Q: How much does the mandatory plan cost?
A: The premium for the student in the mandatory plan will be $358 for the Fall 2008 and $472 for Spring/Summer 2009 coverage.

Q: How much does the voluntary plan cost?
A: The premium for the student in the voluntary plan will be $581 for the Fall 2008 and $770 for Spring/Summer 2009 coverage.

Q: Can I get coverage for my spouse and/or children?
A: Spouse and dependent plans are available for an additional premium. For more information contact Pearce and Pearce web site at www.studentinsurance.com. Payments for dependents are handled directly through Pearce and Pearce and not the college.

Q: What are the dates of coverage?
A: Fall coverage with the Pearce and Pearce plan covers August 1, 2008- December 31, 2008. Spring coverage dates are January 1, 2009- August 1, 2009.

Q: When do I renew the policy and how?
A: Each semester you must renew your policy. Please note that the Spring semester includes fee for the Summer. Students do not have to be enrolled during the Summer in order to be covered. Renewal of your policy can be completed on-line. When renewing policy it will ask for your email address and your private password. Please keep your password in a safe location.

Q: I already have health insurance. Do I still need this policy?
A: If you have other insurance that meets the waiver requirements and wish to apply for a waiver, please go to: www.studentinsurance.com and go to the MGC drop down link. The steps to apply for the waiver are listed on this site.

Q: Last year I had coverage with a different insurance company and was treated for a continuing medical condition: will the new insurance plan cover my continuing medical condition?
A: Given that the new policy covers the condition in question, if you had continuous insurance coverage, the new policy should cover your preexisting condition. Contact Pearce and Pearce for further clarification.

Q: I would like more information. Is there a telephone number?
A: You can contact Pearce and Pearce at 1-800-222-6491 or on the MGC campus, the Office of Student Services at 478-934-3023.