Dear Students,

With a new administration in the White House, there are a myriad of policies and current federal regulations under scrutiny. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is one policy receiving much attention.

In the most simplistic terms the ACA is a federal law that requires every American to have health insurance and sets minimum requirements about what insurance plans should include and how they are executed.

Columbia University, like most of our peer institutions, requires students to carry an insurance plan. The University negotiates a student health insurance plan annually that offers comprehensive coverage in New York City and beyond, with care provided by an extensive network of clinicians. The current student health insurance plan is administered by Aetna and over 20,000 students are currently enrolled. While our University’s plans will always meet the minimum required by state and federal laws, our plans often exceed what is required because it is in the best interest of our students’ healthcare.

In the event federal laws change and students are covered by an insurance plan that is discontinued or no longer meets the University’s waiver criteria, it will be considered a qualifying life event.  We will then issue a communications regarding student  eligibility to enroll in the Columbia University Aetna Student Health Insurance plan outside of the normal open enrollment period.

We do not know what will unfold as the new administration sets its course for the healthcare system, but the University’s commitment to our community’s health and well-being will remain unchanged. Columbia Health is here to empower students to be proactive about their health and to seek care, on and off campus. If you have any questions about your current insurance or enrollment in Aetna student health insurance, please visit Student Health Insurance  or see Health Insurance and You for quick facts.

Be Well,
Columbia Health