How Do Colleges Insure Student Athletes' Health?

How Do Colleges Insure Student Athletes' Health?

College athletes are at risk of injury and illness due to their physically demanding sports. This is why colleges and universities provide student-athletes with health insurance coverage. But how do colleges insure student athletes' health?

Athletic Department Coverage

Most colleges and universities have an athletic department that provides health insurance coverage for student-athletes. The athletic department's insurance coverage typically covers injuries and illnesses that occur during athletic events or practices. It also covers injuries and illnesses that occur off the field, such as during weight training or conditioning.

Third-Party Insurance

Some colleges and universities use third-party insurance providers to ensure that student-athletes have adequate health insurance coverage. These providers often specialize in sports-related injuries and illnesses. Student-athletes who are covered by third-party insurance may have access to a wider network of healthcare providers and specialists.

NCAA Coverage

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) provides health insurance coverage for student-athletes who participate in NCAA-sanctioned sports. This coverage is often referred to as the NCAA catastrophic insurance policy. The policy provides coverage for severe injuries and illnesses that may result in lifelong disabilities or death.

Student-Athlete Responsibility

While colleges and universities provide health insurance coverage for student-athletes, it is the student-athlete's responsibility to ensure that they have adequate coverage. Student-athletes should review their insurance coverage and make sure it covers the sport they are participating in. They should also know what their insurance policy covers and what it does not cover.

Insurance for Non-Athletic Activities

Student-athletes may engage in non-athletic activities that are not covered by their athletic department's insurance coverage. In these cases, the student-athlete may need to purchase additional insurance coverage. This could include travel insurance for away games or international competitions or personal injury insurance for recreational activities.

Insurance as Part of Financial Planning

Insurance is an important part of financial planning for student-athletes and their families. It is important to consider the cost of insurance premiums when budgeting for college expenses. Families should also review their existing insurance policies to ensure they have adequate coverage. This could include health insurance, disability insurance, and life insurance.

Choosing the Right Insurance Provider

When choosing an insurance provider, it is important to consider factors such as coverage, network of healthcare providers, and cost. Families may want to consider working with an independent insurance agent who can help them compare different insurance policies and providers. It is also important to review the insurance policy carefully and ask questions to ensure that the coverage meets the student-athlete's needs.

Insurance Case Study

One example of the importance of insurance coverage for student-athletes is the case of former college basketball player Kevin Ware. In 2013, Ware suffered a severe leg injury during an NCAA tournament game. He subsequently faced significant medical expenses and lost income due to the injury. Ware's insurance coverage helped him cover the cost of his medical treatment and rehabilitation.

In conclusion, colleges and universities provide health insurance coverage for student-athletes to ensure that they have access to medical care in the event of an injury or illness. Student-athletes should review their insurance coverage and make sure it meets their needs. Families should also consider insurance as part of their financial planning and work with an independent insurance agent to choose the right insurance provider.