Introduction
Welcome, Buckeyes! Navigating OSU Student health insurance can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling classes, activities, and a social life. At The Ohio State University, the Student Health Benefits Plan (SHBP) is designed to give you peace of mind so you can focus on what matters—your studies and personal growth. In this guide, you’ll find clear, practical information on how the plan works, key deadlines, money-saving tips, and resources to make the most of your coverage. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Student Health Benefits Plan (SHBP)
Coverage Overview
The SHBP is tailored specifically for OSU students, offering a comprehensive bundle of benefits that includes:
- Medical care for illnesses, injuries, and preventive services
- Mental health counseling and psychiatry support
- Prescription drugs through HealthSmart RX coordination
- Dental benefits under Delta Dental of Ohio
- Vision allowances for eyewear and exams shi.osu.edushi.osu.edu
Who Is Eligible & Why It Matters
All degree-seeking students enrolled at least half-time (6+ credit hours) are required to have active health insurance each semester (Autumn, Spring, Summer). If you don’t have an outside plan, you’ll automatically be enrolled in SHBP. International students and domestic students alike benefit from reliable coverage, ensuring you can access care when you need it most shi.osu.edu.
Key Features and Benefits
Medical Services and Provider Tiers
SHBP uses a tiered network to help manage costs:
- Tier 1: Wilce Student Health Center (on-campus) – lowest out-of-pocket
- Tier 2: OSU Health Plan network in Franklin County
- Tier 3: UHC Choice Plus network outside Franklin County
- Tier 4: All other providers (highest costs) shi.osu.edu
Choosing Tier 1 or Tier 2 providers can significantly reduce your co-pays and coinsurance.
Mental Health & Counseling OSU Student Health Insurance
Your plan covers individual and group therapy, urgent care consultations during business hours, and limited psychiatry services. CCS offices at Younkin Success Center and Lincoln Tower offer confidential support with no referral needed shi.osu.edu.
Prescription Drug Coverage
HealthSmart RX coordinates your medications, covering generics and brand-names within the formulary. Use in-network pharmacies to minimize out-of-pocket costs and check your benefits online before filling a new prescription shi.osu.edu.
Dental & Vision Allowances
- Dental: Adult dental benefits under Delta Dental of Ohio, with in-network preventive care covered at 100%.
- Vision: $100 allowance toward eyewear plus 20% discount on frames and lenses at OSU College of Optometry clinics (Tier 1) shi.osu.edushi.osu.edu.
Enrollment, Waivers, and Deadlines
Automatic Enrollment & Fees
If you’re enrolled in eligible courses and don’t submit a waiver, SHBP fees appear on your Statement of Account each semester. Coverage is automatic from the start of the term through summer (for spring enrollees) shi.osu.edu.
Waiving SHBP: WilceCare & External Plans
If you have an outside plan that meets OSU’s requirements, you can waive SHBP in Buckeye Link before the deadline. Waivers remain in effect for the entire academic year, though you may re-select SHBP for a later semester if needed. If an audit finds your outside plan inactive, you will be reenrolled and billed SHBP fees shi.osu.edu.
- WilceCare Supplement: For students who waive SHBP but still want reduced costs when using on-campus Student Health Services. Note: WilceCare does not cover all SHBP benefits and may result in higher out-of-pocket costs shi.osu.edu.
Important Dates & Rates
For 2024–25, SHBP is billed per semester:
| Coverage Period | Start | End | Waive/Select Deadline | Per-Semester Rate (Student Only) |
| Autumn 2024 | 08/13/24 | 12/31/24 | 08/13/24 | $1,884 |
| Spring/Summer 2025 | 01/01/25 | 08/18/25 | 12/30/24 | $1,884 (includes summer) |
| Summer 2025 Only | 05/06/25 | 08/18/25 | 04/29/25 | $942 |
Additional coverage levels (spouse, child) carry higher fees; refer to the SHBP rates page for details.
How to Make the Most of Your Plan
Finding In-Network Providers
Use the “Find a Provider/Pharmacy” tool on the OSU Health Plan website. Select the correct network—Student Health Insurance Members—to avoid surprises on your bill OSU Health Plan.
Accessing Student Health Services Efficiently
- Wilce Student Health Center for primary care and walk-in appointments.
- Counseling & Consultation Service (CCS) for mental health support—no referral needed.
- Urgent Care: For after-hours needs, seek Tier 2 or Tier 3 urgent care centers in the UHC Choice Plus network.
Tips for Saving on Out-of-Pocket Costs
- Always verify network status before your visit.
- Use on-campus services (Tier 1) whenever possible.
- Opt for generic prescriptions.
- Schedule preventive screenings early in the semester to beat busy periods shi.osu.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I miss the waiver deadline?
You will remain enrolled in SHBP and be responsible for the fee. You may still submit a waiver for future semesters, but current charges won’t be reversed.
Can I change coverage mid-year?
Generally no—your selection (enroll or waive) stands for the full academic year. Qualifying life events (marriage, loss of coverage) may allow changes; contact SHBP administration immediately.
Additional Resources and Support
Key Contacts
- UnitedHealthcare Student Resources (claims & benefits): 1-833-789-9300 shi.osu.edu
- OSU Health Plan Office: 614-292-4700
- Wilce Student Health Center: 614-292-4321
- Gallagher Koster (enrollment/ID cards): 1-800-254-2461 Gallagher Student
Online Tools
- Buckeye Link: Enroll or waive SHBP, view billing.
- StatusLink (Klais & Company): Check claim status at www.klais.com.
- SHBP Portal: Download ID cards, view plan documents, find providers.
Conclusion
Your health and well-being are vital foundations for academic success. By understanding how OSU’s Student Health Benefits Plan works, staying on top of deadlines, and using in-network services, you can minimize stress and expenses. Take advantage of on-campus resources, ask questions when you need clarity, and remember—you’re supported every step of the way. Here’s to a healthy, happy, and successful Buckeye experience!