3 Tips to Get Prescription Drugs in the U.S. and Save Money

3 Tips to Get Prescription Drugs in the U.S. and Save Money

Get Prescription drugs in the US and save money

How to Lower Prescription Costs & Use Insurance

In the United States, the prescription drug system can be just as complex as the healthcare system itself. The same medication can vary drastically in price depending on the pharmacy, insurance coverage, and drug type.

In some cases, the price difference for the exact same drug can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

So before picking up your prescription, here’s what you should know.

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Why Prescription Drug Prices Vary in the U.S.

Not all prescription drugs are priced equally in the U.S. They are typically categorized into three tiers, which directly affect your out-of-pocket cost:

  • Tier 1 (Generic Drugs) – Lowest cost
  • Tier 2 (Preferred Brand Drugs) – Moderate cost
  • Tier 3 (Non-Preferred / Specialty Drugs) – Highest cost

In many cases, generic drugs (Tier 1) contain the same active ingredients and provide similar effectiveness as brand-name drugs.

So why are Tier 2 and Tier 3 drugs more expensive?

The main reason is patent protection. Brand-name and specialty drugs are often still under patent, allowing manufacturers to set higher prices.

That means a higher price does not always mean better effectiveness.

In fact, doctors often prioritize prescribing generics whenever appropriate.

Tip #1: Ask your doctor if a generic (Tier 1) alternative is available. Switching to a generic version can significantly reduce your cost.

Picture of money with pills and vitamins over white background

Why Do Drug Prices Vary by Pharmacy?

Unlike many countries, drug prices in the U.S. are not standardized.

Different pharmacies—such as CVS Pharmacy, Walgreens, Costco Pharmacy, and Walmart Pharmacy can all set their own pricing.

Price differences come from different business models of Pharmacys. They have different contracts with insurance providers.

In many cases, preferred pharmacies and big-box retailers (like Costco or Walmart) offer lower copays and lower retail prices.

Tip #2: Always compare prices before picking up your medication.

If you are a Student Medicover member, you can log into OptumRx—the prescription management platform powered by UnitedHealthcare to:

  • Compare prices across different pharmacies
  • Estimate your out-of-pocket costs after insurance
  • Find the most affordable option near you

No matter which insurance plan you have, you can also use platforms like GoodRx and SingleCare to access additional discounts and compare prices across pharmacies.

Note: Coupons and insurance cannot be used together—choose whichever option is cheaper.

How to Use Prescription Insurance in the U.S.

If you’re a Student Medicover member, managing prescriptions is relatively straightforward with the right tools.

Open prescription pad with a pen and a pill bottle, conveying the importance of medication in patient care --ar 16:7 --style raw --stylize 250 --v 6.1 Job ID: f4014794-7993-4123-a6d2-aead5f4d4bf4

1. Get a Prescription

Students members over 18 can use HealthiestYou for online consultations and receive prescriptions quickly—often at no additional cost.

2. Check Your Prescription Benefits

Log into OptumRx using your HealthSafe ID to:

    • View covered medications
    • Check pricing estimates
    • Manage prescriptions

3. Review Your Prescription Details

Inside OptumRx, you can:

  • View active prescriptions
  • Check past claims (pharmacy benefits)
  • Confirm if a drug is covered

4. Understand Coverage Rules

When searching for a drug, you may see the following terms:

  • Prior Authorization (PA)
    Your doctor must get approval before coverage applies
  • Quantity Limit (QL)
    Limits how much medication you can receive at one time
  • Step Therapy (ST)
    Requires trying lower-cost medications first
  • Specialty Pharmacy (SP)
    High-cost drugs that must be filled at designated pharmacies

Understanding these rules helps you avoid unexpected costs and delays.

5. Compare Drug Prices

OptumRx allows you to:

  • Compare estimated prices across pharmacies
  • See your cost with insurance applied
  • Identify the most cost-effective option

6. Find an In-Network Pharmacy

Use OptumRx to locate in-network pharmacies near you, such as:

  • CVS
  • Walgreens
  • Costco
  • Walmart

Choosing an in-network pharmacy can significantly lower your out-of-pocket cost.

Pharmacist, hands and drug box in hands in pharmacy, person and filling customer medical prescription for healthcare. Professional, medication and retail dispensary or career, supplements and patient.

Be a Smart Prescription User and Save Money

Navigating prescription drugs in the U.S. can feel overwhelming—but understanding how pricing and insurance work gives you a major advantage.

With the right approach, you can avoid unnecessary expenses, access affordable medications and make informed healthcare decisions

If you have questions, feel free to reach out to Student Medicover support anytime.

Hope every one of you stay in good health!

24 7 Customer Care 1

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5-Step Injury Treatment Process in the U.S. & Insurance Claim Tips

Severe Injury Treatment Process in the U.S. & Insurance Claim Tips

Severe Injury Treatment Process in the U.S. & Insurance Claim Tips

What Really Happens If You Experience a Serious Injury in America?

According to the Student Medicover 2026 Trauma Claims Report, a single injury-related medical case in the U.S. often involves multiple services—from emergency transport to surgery and rehabilitation.

After a severe injury, patients typically go through emergency transportation, ER treatment, specialist care, possible hospitalization, and recovery. Total costs can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars. 

Fortunately, the right health insurance can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what happens after a serious injury in the U.S., how medical billing works, and what international students should know about insurance claims and cost management.

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Step-by-Step Medical Treatment Process After an Injury

A severe injury in the US is far more than just “going to the hospital once.”
Based on real cases, students may go through the following steps — each contributing to the total cost.

Step 1: Emergency Transportation (911, Ambulance, Airlift)

If your condition is critical, you may be transported via ground ambulance or air ambulance (helicopter) to the nearest emergency room (ER).

Important Tip: No Surprises Act

  • Air ambulance services are covered under federal law.
  • Patients only pay in-network cost-sharing, even if the provider is out-of-network.
  • Some states also provide protections for ground ambulance services.

This protection mainly applies to emergency transport. Subsequent treatments (tests, surgery, follow-ups) will still be billed based on your insurance network and policy details.

MOSCOW, RUSSIA - NOVEMBER 18: MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 18: medical helicopter landing on site in Moscow on november 18, 2019 in Russia.

Step 2: Emergency Room (ER) Treatment & Diagnostic Tests

In the ER, you will receive immediate and comprehensive care.

For example, in a fracture case, services may include X-ray / CT scan / MRI, pain management, wound treatment and emergency surgery.

Each service is billed separately. Typical total cost: $3,000 – $20,000+

Additionally, hospitals charge a facility fee, which can significantly increase the total bill.

Step 3: Specialist Referral & Surgical Decisions

After initial stabilization, doctors may refer you to orthopedic specialists or sports medicine physicians

If surgery is required, costs can range from tens of thousands of dollars, depending on complexity

Step 4: Hospitalization or ICU Care

If your condition requires admission, costs may include hospital stay, surgeon fees, anesthesia, medications and ICU care (if necessary).

These charges are often billed separately and can quickly escalat.

Step 5: Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy

Recovery doesn’t end at discharge.

If prescribed, physical therapy (PT) or rehabilitation may last several weeks with multiple sessions per week.

Typical cost: $100–$300+ per session

The financial impact of a serious injury often extends far beyond the initial emergency — with ongoing medical and recovery costs.

Who Pays for Medical Bills in a Car Accident?

If your injury is caused by a car accident or external incident, the situation becomes more complex, involving multiple parties and insurance layers.

car crash

1. Auto Insurance (MedPay / PIP)

  • Usually the primary payer
  • Covers medical expenses regardless of fault

2. Personal Health Insurance

  • Covers remaining costs if auto insurance is insufficient
  • You may need to submit an Injury Detail Form for proper claims processing

In some cases, health insurance may pay first and later seek reimbursement from the responsible party.

3.At-Fault Party’s Liability Insurance

If another party is responsible, their insurance may cover medical expenses, lost wages and other damages.

Please note: Insurance rules vary by state, and factors such as the presence of MedPay or PIP, as well as potential legal involvement, can affect the claims process and payment order.

Intro Img 1

How Student Medicover Supports International Students

International students are actually a high-risk group for injuries, especially from skiing, outdoor sports, road trips and activities.

Even a small mistake can lead to serious consequences.

Here’s how Student Medicover helps.

1. Turning Unpredictable Risk into Predictable Cost

All Student Medicover plans cover:

  • Outpatient visits
  • Emergency room (ER)
  • Ambulance
  • Surgery
  • Hospitalization

With 80%–90% coverage in-network, and:

  • Deductibles as low as $0 (Supreme / Elite plans)
  • Out-of-pocket maximum as low as $5,000

This means even extremely high medical bills are capped — giving you financial protection.

2. Helping You Navigate the Healthcare System

Student Medicover provides:

We can assist you with:

Choosing the right provider can significantly reduce unnecessary costs.

24 7 Customer Care 1

Pro Tip:

Always confirm:

  1. Whether the facility is in-network
  2. Whether the doctor, surgeon, and anesthesiologist are also in-network

These details can directly impact your final bill.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared for Unexpected Injuries

We hope you never have to go through a serious injury while studying in the U.S.

But if it does happen, knowing:

  • What the medical process looks like
  • How billing works
  • How insurance applies

can make a huge difference.

If you still have questions regarding contraception or birth control, it is always advisable to click here and consult our customer service teams.

Hope every one of you stay in good health!

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Top 10 Health Issues Women Shouldn’t Ignore

Top 10 Health Issues Women Shouldn’t Ignore

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Introduction

Some health symptoms in women might look minor, but indeed are evident warnings that demand immediate medical treatment. Though, they may appear insignificant yet are your body’s way of alerting you that something is amiss, so knowing about these symptoms and addressing them with your doctor can have a big impact on your prognosis and treatment efficacy. Especially for us, who are international students studying in the United States, our families are not here with us, and many times we need to pay more attention to our own health and wellness.

Cancer cells that cannot be Ignored

During your study abroad, all girls please self-check whether you have experienced the following symptoms:

1. Chest pain or discomfort

This could indicate a heart attack, and women often experience different symptoms than men, such as shortness of breath, nausea, and pain in the jaw or neck.

2. Abnormal vaginal bleeding

Any unusual bleeding, such as bleeding after sex or between periods, could be a sign of cervical or uterine cancer.

3. Changes in breast tissue

Lumps, bumps, or changes in the texture or appearance of breast tissue should be checked by a doctor, as they could indicate breast cancer.

4. Severe headaches

Headaches that are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or changes in vision could be a sign of a serious condition such as a brain tumor or stroke.

5. Shortness of breath

If you’re experiencing shortness of breath that’s not due to physical exertion, it could be a sign of a pulmonary embolism or other respiratory issue.

6. Painful or frequent urination

This could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, bladder infection, or kidney stones.

7. Changes in bowel habits

If you notice changes in your bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation, that last for more than a few days, it could be a sign of a digestive disorder or colorectal cancer.

8. Unexplained weight loss

If you’re losing weight without trying, it could be a sign of a thyroid issue, cancer, or another underlying health problem.

9. Extreme fatigue

If you’re feeling tired all the time, even after getting enough sleep, it could be a sign of anemia, thyroid issues, or other health problems.

10. Skin changes

Changes in the appearance or texture of your skin, such as new moles, rashes, or discoloration, could be a sign of skin cancer or other health issues.

10 Health Issues Women Shouldn’t Ignore

Conclusion:

Apart from checking your body regularly, it is also important to note that these symptoms don’t necessarily mean that you have a serious health condition, but it’s always better to be safer and healthier. Student Medicover has been dedicated to protecting the health and safety of international students in the United States for the past ten years. All of our plans include the benefits and claims for regular physical checkups in the United States, and it is never a wrong choice to have yourselves covered by insurance in the US.

Click here to contact our customer service representatives for more detailed insurance plans and medical options. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above at school, please go to the health center or a nearby clinic for proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible. If the situation is more severe, such as symptoms of a heart attack or other life-threatening illnesses, please dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency facility immediately.

Hope every one of you stay in good health!

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10 Most Important Health Tips for Women

10 Most Important Health Tips for Women

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Introduction

Women’s health is a complex and multifaceted topic that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Maintaining good health is essential for women of all ages, and there are numerous tips that women can take to promote their overall wellbeing. From practicing healthy habits such as regular exercise and balanced nutrition, to seeking preventive care and managing chronic conditions, all of them can help women stay healthy and vibrant throughout their lives.

Students in the US are facing health problems more frequently and severely than we imagine, and thus in this following article, we will explore the top 10 most important health tips for women, especially for international students, by offering practical advice on how to achieve optimal health and wellness.

Stay Healthy

Content：

Contraception Method 1: Condoms

Contraception Method 2: Short-acting Oral Contraception

Contraception Method 3: Emergency Contraception

Contraception Method 4: Rhythm Contraception

Content

Based on our research on students and medical recommendations from practitioners, here are the top 10 most important health tips for women: 

1. Eat a Healthy and Balanced Diet

Contraception Method 1: Condoms

A healthy diet is essential for maintaining optimal health. Women should focus on a balanced and nutritious diet, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Major universities also pay more attention to their dining department financially in order to provide a healthier lifestyle for students in the US.

Eat a Healthy and Balanced Diet

2. Manage Stress

Chronic stress can have negative effects on both physical and mental health. During midterms and final exams, stress may peak at an unbearable level, and students should practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises in order to keep themselves in a good mentality.

3. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is essential for overall health and wellbeing. Women should aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night, even if you believe that you are young enough.

4. Perform Self-exams

Women should perform regular self-exams to check for breast and skin changes. Also, your roommates or friends may also keep an eye on your health if necessary.

5. Exercise Regularly

Contraception Method 2: Short-acting Oral Contraception

Exercise can help prevent chronic diseases, improve mental health, and promote a healthy weight. Women should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, which could be easily accessed on campus for students.

Exercise Regularly

6. Practice Safe Sex

Girls in college are usually not fully aware of the severity of unsafe sexual behaviors, and it is very important to keep in mind that safe sex practices can help prevent sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies.

7. Stay up to Date on Vaccinations

Vaccines can help prevent serious illnesses and diseases. Women should talk to their healthcare provider about which vaccines they need. 

Note: Students in the US who are insured by Student Medicover may have access to a preventive care benefit that covers vaccines when received from in-network providers such as CVS and Walgreen.  You may click here to contact our customer service members for more information.

8. Don't Smoke or Use Tobacco

Smoking and tobacco use can have serious negative health effects. Students at such a younger age who smoke should consider quitting and seek support.

9. Drink alcohol in Moderation

Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of many health problems, and every one should limit alcohol intake to one drink per day, especially when students have lots of parties when they enter colleges.

10. Get Regular Check-ups

Contraception Method 3: Emergency Contraception

Women should have regular check-ups with their healthcare provider to monitor their overall health and screen for diseases. In many cases, universities will provide chances for fellow students to take regular exams on campus.

Get Regular Body Check-ups

Contraception Method 4: Rhythm Contraception

Conclusion:

In summary, prioritizing health and wellness is crucial for women to lead fulfilling lives. By adopting healthy habits and seeking regular medical care, women can take control of their physical and mental wellbeing and prevent potential health problems from developing. Whether it’s through practicing self-care, maintaining a balanced diet, or getting enough exercise, all the 10 tips above for women can ensure that they are living in their healthiest way.

Hope every one of you stay in good health!

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The Most Effective Method to Prevent Pregnancy in the US

The Most Effective Method to Prevent Pregnancy in the US

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Introduction

Do you really know all the correct methods of contraception? 

Can birth control pills be taken to regulate skin and relieve menstrual pain? 

Can emergency contraception be taken regularly? 

Is it safe to rely on withdrawal methods or taking a shower immediately after having sex to prevent pregnancy? 

Does birth control pills really cause great harm to the body, and should it be avoided at all costs? 

Can condoms absolutely prevent pregnancy?

What is the most effective method to prevent pregnancy?

There are a series of questions that we receive every day from our customers, and indeed the answer may vary, depending on the actual circumstances. As international students, it’s your duty to take good care of your own safety in the US, and thus in this article, we have compiled information from Planned Parenthood, the most authoritative reproductive health care organization in the United States, to analyze the most effective method to prevent pregnancy in the US.

all of the most effective method to prevent pregnancy

Content

Content：

Contraception Method 1: Condoms

Contraception Method 2: Short-acting Oral Contraception

Contraception Method 3: Emergency Contraception

Contraception Method 4: Rhythm Contraception

Note:

The most effective method to prevent pregnancy can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of contraception used, how consistently and correctly it is used, and individual differences in fertility.

Click here to contact our customer service members for more information. And now let’s get started!

Contraception Method 1: Condoms

Contraception Method 1: Condoms

The success rate of condoms as a form of contraception depends on how consistently and correctly they are used. When used perfectly, condoms can be highly effective in preventing pregnancy and reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), when used consistently and correctly, condoms are about 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, with typical use (including inconsistent or incorrect use), the effectiveness rate drops to about 85%.

Medical condoms

Contraception Method 2: Short-acting Oral Contraception

Contraception Method 2: Short-acting Oral Contraception

Short-acting oral contraceptives, commonly known as “the pill”, are a highly effective form of contraception when used correctly.

The success rate of short-acting oral contraceptives depends on how consistently and correctly they are taken. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), when taken perfectly, the pill is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, with typical use (including missed or late pills), the effectiveness rate drops to about 91%.

To use short-acting oral contraceptives effectively, it’s important to take them at the same time every day, preferably within a three-hour window of your usual time. It’s also important to start each new pack of pills on time, and to use a backup method of contraception (such as condoms) if a pill is missed or taken late.

Note:

All Student Medicover customers who have enrolled in our Choice, Prime, Elite, or Supreme plans will enjoy coverage on contraceptive medication, and also make sure you bring your doctor’s prescription and insurance card when you go to CVS or Walgreens to get the complimentary medication.

Common Birth control pills

Contraception Method 3: Emergency Contraception

Contraception Method 3: Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception (EC) is a type of birth control that can be used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to prevent pregnancy. The success rate of EC depends on several factors, including the type of EC used and how soon it is taken after unprotected sex.

The two most used types of EC proved by FDA are:

  • ELLA®（ulipristal acetate）
  • Plan B One-Step® (Levonorgestrel-only), including After Pill™、My Way®、Next Choice One Dose™ and Take Action™

Levonorgestrel is most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex and can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89%. Ulipristal acetate is most effective when taken within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex and can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 85%.

To take EC, follow the instructions on the package insert or those given by your healthcare provider. Levonorgestrel is available over-the-counter without a prescription, while ulipristal acetate requires a prescription from a healthcare provider. It’s best to take EC as soon as possible after unprotected sex, as its effectiveness decreases with time. If you vomit within 2 hours of taking EC, consult with your healthcare provider to determine if you need to take another dose.

Birth control pills for emergency use

Contraception Method 4: Rhythm Contraception

Contraception Method 4: Rhythm Contraception

Rhythm Contraception, also known as the fertility awareness method, involves tracking a woman’s menstrual cycle to determine when she is most likely to ovulate and therefore be fertile. By avoiding sexual intercourse during this time, couples can attempt to prevent pregnancy without using other forms of contraception.

However, the success rate of calendar-based contraception can vary depending on several factors, including the accuracy of tracking menstrual cycles, consistency in tracking and avoiding intercourse during fertile periods, and individual variations in the length of menstrual cycles. Studies suggest that typical use of the rhythm method can result in a failure rate of around 25%, which means that 25 out of 100 women using this method will become pregnant within a year. With perfect use, which involves accurately tracking menstrual cycles and consistently avoiding intercourse during fertile periods, the failure rate can be reduced to around 2-5%.

To use the rhythm method, a woman should start by tracking her menstrual cycle for several months to determine the length of her cycle and identify the days on which she is most likely to be fertile. This involves tracking the start and end dates of her period as well as any other symptoms of ovulation such as changes in cervical mucus or body temperature.

Once a woman has identified her fertile window, she and her partner should avoid sexual intercourse or use other forms of contraception during this time to prevent pregnancy. It is important to note that the rhythm method does not protect against sexually transmitted infections and is not recommended for women with irregular menstrual cycles.

Disclaimer:

Regardless of the methods you apply every time, it’s always important to note that no form of contraception is 100% effective, and do not provide complete protection against all STIs, and the most effective method to prevent pregnancy highly depends on the application of safe sex practices.

Using a combination of several methods of contraception and applying , such as getting tested for STIs and limiting sexual partners, etc. can further reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy and STIs.

If you still have questions regarding contraception or birth control, it is always advisable to click here and consult our customer service teams.

Hope every one of you stay in good health!

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