GSU Health and Dental Plan

In the current climate of increasing health care costs, students on fixed incomes are particularly vulnerable. Each year, the costs of prescription drugs and basic health services take increasingly large portions out of limited student budgets. Postponement of necessary but expensive medical procedures can have disastrous consequences for students and even jeopardize the completion of their program.

Full-time graduate students are enrolled in these plans when they register, and fees are collected by the University in all three semesters. For an additional fee, students may extend the coverage to their partners, including same sex partners, and their dependent children.

The health and dental plan guide below provides a reminder to students of some common concerns and questions. It is important to be aware of deadlines related to the plan and of plan coverage.

TIPS AND THINGS TO REMEMBER

Alternative Coverage: Opt outs must include proof of existing coverage. If coverage extends past age 25 you must provide proof once again.

One Time Opt Out: Since Fall 2005, Full-time graduate students whose student status does not change are not required to opt out again during their program. If your student status changes (i.e. to part-time or you take a leave of absence) during your program, you will need to contact us before the deadline in a given semester about opting out or opting in if/when you become a full-time student again.

Opt Out Deadline: The opt-out and opt-in date for the current semester has already passed. The opt-out and opt-in date for Spring/Summer 2010 is May 31st, 2010.

To Opt In to the Plan: Full-time students need to fill in an opt-in form in order to be added to the plan in a semester beyond your first. Paying any health and dental fees showing on your account without contacting us is not sufficient.

International students: Full-time international students have the option to opt in the health plan under our Green Shield plan. MUN's International Student Advising Office (ISA) provides emergency health insurance and International Students should also apply for the free basic provincial health coverage (MCP). Please note that the ISA has their own opt-out procedures. For more information, please contact the ISA office: 737-8895 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Travelling Abroad: There is emergency travel insurance included in the plan for trips lasting up to 60 days. For trips out of the country 60 days in duration or longer, you must contact the GSU prior to the opt-out deadline if you wish to opt out.

Family Coverage: Family members can be added to your coverage annually during fall semester registration or in your first semester.

Status or Name Changes: You must notify the GSU for status (international student, permanent resident, Canadian citizen) or name changes. We do not automatically have this information.

Part-time students: Not eligible for the GSU health and dental plans.

Periods of coverage:

Fall 2009: Begins September 1st, 2009 and ends on December 31st, 2009.

Winter 2010: Begins January 1st, 2010 and ends on April 30th, 2010.

Spring/Summer 2010: Begins May 1st, 2010 and ends on August 31st, 2010.

If you have recently joined the plan, please remember that though you are also covered for the above periods, it takes 5-6 weeks for Green Shield to have all the new student information. Until the opt-out deadline passes, keep your receipts for reimbursement. Shortly after that time, you should be able to avail of direct billing for most services.

Important Links

1. Claim Forms

2. Policy number and information to fill out the claim forms

3. Opt-in/Opt-out Forms, Health and Dental Card

Quick links and info

1. For general health information, a 24-hour daily phone service:

Newfoundland and Labrador HealthLine, toll-free 1-888-709-2929

2. List of physicians in St. John's accepting new patients (telephone recording):

Phone the Department of Health and Community Services, (709) 729-4984