Mental Health Services: What is covered under OSHC?

 When you start on the exciting journey of studying or living in a foreign country, taking care of your health should be high on your priority list. It is important to make sure you have proper healthcare coverage in place.

In Australia, international students are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) provided by various insurance providers. The health insurance not only covers a wide range of medical needs but also takes care of your mental health.

In this blog, we will know about the details of what exactly OSHC covers when it comes to mental health services. Knowing the kind of support you will have access to during your stay in Australia can give you peace of mind and help you make the most out of your experience.

What is OSHC?

OSHC is a mandatory health insurance cover that international students must get while studying in Australia. It is designed to provide financial assistance for medical treatments and services that students may require during their time in the country. OSHC is important for accessing healthcare and ensures that students have access to quality medical care when needed.

Mental Health Services Covered by OSHC

Mental Health Consultations

OSHC covers consultations with mental health professionals such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counsellors. These professionals can help with various mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and stress management.

Therapy Sessions

OSHC includes coverage for therapy sessions, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT). These therapeutic approaches aim to address specific mental health issues and provide strategies for coping and managing symptoms.

Prescribed Medications

OSHC covers prescribed medications for mental health conditions, ensuring that students have access to necessary medications to support their treatment.

Hospitalization

In severe cases, when hospitalization is required for mental health concerns, OSHC covers the cost of hospital stays and treatments provided during the hospitalization period.

Emergency Mental Health Support

OSHC provides coverage for emergency mental health support, ensuring that students can access immediate assistance in cases of crisis or severe mental health episodes.

Understanding the Limits and Waiting Periods

It is important to note that there may be certain limits and waiting periods associated with mental health services provided by OSHC in Australia. These limitations vary between insurance providers and policies, so it is important to carefully review your OSHC policy to understand the specific details.

The waiting period is the time between when you purchase your OSHC policy and when you become eligible to claim specific mental health services. Waiting periods typically range from a few weeks to a few months. Make sure to check the waiting periods for mental health services mentioned in your policy to plan accordingly.

Accessing Mental Health Services

To access mental health services covered by OSHC, follow these steps:

Find a Mental Health Professional

Search for mental health professionals who participate in your OSHC network. This ensures that you make the most of your insurance coverage.

Make an Appointment

Contact the mental health professional to schedule an appointment. Be sure to confirm that they accept your OSHC insurance.

Attend the Consultation

Attend the consultation according to the scheduled date and time. Discuss your concerns with the mental health professional and work together to develop a treatment plan.

Pay and Claim

After the consultation, pay for the services received and ensure you retain the receipt. Submit a claim to your OSHC provider, following their specific instructions, to receive reimbursement for the covered expenses.

The Importance of Mental Health Support

Maintaining good mental health is important for overall well-being, academic success, and a fulfilling experience while studying abroad. It is important to understand that seeking mental health support when needed is not a sign of weakness but rather a step towards self-care and personal growth. OSHC provides coverage for mental health services, ensuring that international students have access to the necessary support during their time in Australia.

Last Words

OSHC offers coverage for a range of mental health services, including consultations with mental health professionals, therapy sessions, prescribed medications, hospitalization, and emergency support. It is important to review your OSHC policy to understand the limits and waiting periods associated with mental health services. Prioritize your mental health with Budget Policy and seek support when needed. Our team of experts will help you in comparing and buying the right OSHC in Australia.