Transitioning to independence: Personal health plans for young adults

As students transition from adolescence to adulthood, one significant change they face is managing their own health insurance. This transition often comes with questions and concerns for those previously covered under a parent’s group or personal health plan. At Saskatchewan Blue Cross, we are committed to ensuring this shift is as smooth and supportive as possible. 

Understanding the transition 

Typically, a student will be removed from their parent’s policy at the renewal date following their 25th birthday. However, coverage can also expire when the dependent child turns 18 or when they are no longer a full-time student. At this juncture, a policy letter will be generated and mailed to the student, who can then opt into being moved to their own policy. This new policy will retain the same coverage as the parent’s policy without requiring medical underwriting, ensuring continuity of care. The notice will include all necessary information to continue coverage. 

Example scenario 

Consider a dependent born on February 4, 1999. The dependent turned 25 on February 4, 2024. The policy renewal date is Sept 1. On the Sept 1, 2024, renewal, the dependent will be automatically transferred to their own plan. A policy and letter will be generated and mailed to the policyholder of the new plan. 

Blue Choice® Personal Health Plans: Key features for young adults  

Health practitioners 

• Young adults often lead active lives through sports, outdoor adventures, or long study hours. Access to various health practitioners ensures they can address physical strains, mental health needs and alternative health approaches, promoting overall well-being and preventing minor issues from escalating. This coverage protects them from the high costs of specialized care, ensuring they can maintain optimal health without financial strain. 
• Coverage: $400 per person per year
• Services included: Chiropractor, chiropodist/podiatrist, physiotherapist/athletic therapist, registered massage therapist, clinical psychologist, naturopath, speech-language pathologist and acupuncturist. 

Vision care

• In the digital age, where screen time is at an all-time high, maintaining good vision is crucial. Regular eye exams can detect early signs of vision problems and other health issues, while coverage for eyewear ensures that young adults can afford necessary glasses or contacts. This benefit protects against the risk of undiagnosed vision problems affecting performance and daily life. 
• Eye exam: Up to $100 for one eye exam in a 24-month period. 
• Eyewear: Up to $150 for prescription eyewear or laser surgery in a 24-month period. 

Out of Saskatchewan (within Canada) Emergency Services

• Young adults love to explore and travel, and emergency services coverage ensures they are protected anywhere in Canada. Unlimited coverage means they can travel with peace of mind, knowing they are protected against unexpected medical emergencies, which can otherwise be financially devastating. 
• Coverage: Unlimited 
• Pre-existing conditions: 90-day pre-existing condition clause. 

Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D)

• Life is unpredictable, and accidents can happen at any time. AD&D coverage provides a financial safety net in the event of serious injury or death, offering peace of mind to young adults and their families. This protection can alleviate the financial burden on loved ones during challenging times. 
• Policyholder and spouse: $25,000 
• Dependent(s): $5,000 

Prescription drugs

• Medication: Prescription drugs can be a significant expense, especially for young adults managing chronic conditions or unexpected illnesses. With 80% unlimited coverage and a convenient pay direct drug card, this benefit ensures that essential medications are affordable, protecting against the financial strain of out-of-pocket prescription costs and promoting adherence to necessary treatment plans. Prescription drugs are an underwritten benefit, which means the existing prescriptions may not be covered. Drugs listed on the SK Formulary are covered.
• Coverage: 80% unlimited 
• Pay Direct Card: Available for prescriptions listed on the Saskatchewan Prescription Drug Plan Formulary, including contraceptives.

Click here for a full list of the benefits included in the Blue Choice® personal health plan.

Advisors: Supporting the transition 

Insurance advisors play a crucial role in this transition by: 

• Ensuring dependents and their parents are well-informed about the upcoming changes. 
• Advising if the dependent is no longer a full-time student enrolled in an accredited educational institution. Advisors should email brokers@sk.bluecross.ca to notify. 
• Reminding members with dependents aged 18 and over to make necessary changes if eligibility requirements are no longer met. 
• Highlighting the benefits and features of the Saskatchewan Blue Cross personal health plans to potential customers. 
• This transition period is an excellent opportunity for advisors to gauge interest and promote personal health plans. By emphasizing continuity of care and the comprehensive benefits offered, advisors can provide peace of mind to students and their families during this critical time. 

For more information or to discuss how we can assist you in this transition, please contact brokers@sk.bluecross.ca. We are here to support you every step of the way.