Healthcare in Australia: What International Students Need to Know

Navigating the healthcare system and experience is crucial to living in Australia as a student. Awareness of the healthcare options and entitlements is essential to ensure a smooth and healthy journey throughout their time in the country. 

There are several aspects and services covered in the healthcare system in Australia, like the mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) to know the services covered, access healthcare providers, and discover support services, this guide aims to provide students with valuable information to help them make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

This blog post will explore what international students need to know about healthcare in Australia. 

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC):

All international students must have OSHC, a health insurance policy that covers medical services during their stay in Australia. OSHC generally covers visits to doctors, specialists, hospital stays, and limited pharmaceuticals. It is essential to understand the specific coverage and any limitations of your chosen OSHC provider. 

OSHC policies generally provide coverage for the duration of your student visa. It is important to maintain valid OSHC throughout your stay in Australia to meet visa conditions.

With OSHC, you can choose to visit any doctor or medical provider who accepts OSHC. It is recommended to check with your OSHC provider for a list of preferred providers or to utilize their network to locate healthcare providers.

General Practitioners (GPs): 

GPs are primary care doctors provide non-emergency medical services. International students can visit GPs for general health check-ups, prescriptions, referrals, and minor illnesses. You can also find general practitioners on your campus or near your student accommodation in Adelaide or accommodation in Sydney. GPs are accessible to all individuals, including Australian citizens, permanent residents, and international students. You can visit a GP for both acute illnesses and ongoing healthcare needs.

Public Hospitals: 

OSHC usually covers emergency treatments in public hospitals. However, elective surgeries and non-emergency treatments may require additional expenses or private health insurance coverage. It is recommended that you have knowledge about your nearby public hospitals near your student housing or accommodation in Australia.  

Public hospitals offer emergency departments that provide urgent medical care 24/7. They are equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies and provide immediate assistance to those in need.

Medicare: 

International students from countries with a reciprocal healthcare agreement, such as Belgium, Finland, Italy, Norway, Sweden, and the Netherlands, may be eligible for Medicare benefits. This agreement allows access to certain healthcare services under Medicare. 

Medicare covers a significant portion of the costs for essential medical services, including visits to general practitioners (GPs), specialists, diagnostic tests, and public hospital treatments. 

Student Support Services: 

Universities and colleges often have student support services that can assist international students in navigating the healthcare system, finding appropriate medical providers, and understanding their insurance coverage. Make sure to get in touch with the support services and understand the process behind availing the services. Have their contact information handy. 

Mental Health Support:

Many institutions provide mental health support services, including counselling and therapy, to assist international students with emotional well-being. Educational institutions also promote health and well-being through various initiatives, including workshops, campaigns, and resources on topics like nutrition, exercise, stress management, and sexual health.

It is important for international students to thoroughly research and understand their healthcare options and requirements in Australia to ensure they have the necessary coverage and access to healthcare services throughout their studies. It is essential to prioritize health and seek timely medical attention when needed. With proper knowledge and proactive measures, international students can make the most of their time in Australia, focusing on their studies while maintaining their physical and mental well-being.

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Author's Bio

Madhura Ballal plays many roles- a cat person, a food lover, an avid marketer, and a postgraduate from the National University of Singapore. You can find her painting and doing yoga, when she's not playing one of the most critical roles that she has taken on- writing.