Tips for College Frosh Parents

The last few weeks before an older child enters college are always exciting, always busy, and usually very expensive! That first college tuition statement is always a shock

Having sent three to college I wanted to share some ideas regarding coed health.

Make sure your student receives all of the appropriate immunizations, especially the Meningococcus vaccine to protect from bacterial meningitis (a preventable campus killer).

Check that your child's health insurance coverage does not lapse. Call your health plan to make sure your child is eligible even if they are far away. Out-of-network coverage can be very expensive. Consider a supplemental policy to cover unpaid portions of your primary health plan. Otherwise, enroll your child in the college health insurance plan. Listen to me, an overnight hospitalization with appendicitis can easily cost $15,000.

Photo Credit: Marco Antonio Torres

Book an appointment for your student to visit the eye doctor. Have any spectacle prescriptions updated. Make a bulk purchase of contact lenses and supplies. Ask for duplicate written copies of all prescriptions for use in case of loss or breakage. Things happen, right?!?

Remember, goods and services are always more costly when purchased far from home. Tackling these chores now will spare you anxiety, time and money once school starts.

Related Topics:

• WebMD Video: Health 101 for College Students
• Off to College - How Best to Protect Your Teen

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