Going away from home is a big step for your college freshman. But remember, they aren’t just leaving home, they’re also leaving doctors and other health care professionals that they’ve relied upon.

Here’s how you can help your student get health care established in their new city.

Insurance Options

Your college or university’s student health plan may be an affordable way to have your student’s health care needs met.

If your student is staying in the same state as you, you can keep them on your plan as long as they are a dependent under the age of 26. If they’re in a different state, they can apply for coverage with you, but be aware of the plan’s limitations in their area. They can apply for their own plan in the state where they go to school.

For students that are older than 26 and not claimed as a dependent, they can fill out their own application on the health care marketplace, even if they still live with their parents.

Finding a Doctor

For simple health needs, most campuses have a health clinic that serves the student population. Usually, these clinics diagnose and treat minor illnesses and injuries, test for and treat sexually transmitted diseases and handle preventive care. They may be able to give immunizations and handle some mental health issues.

Charges for these services may be waived or minimal. Talk to the student services department to learn more about your campus’ services.

If the campus doesn’t have a clinic or the student is not comfortable getting care there, talk to your family doctor or other health care professional at home about finding a doctor in your new town. Your family doctor may know of a colleague in the area accepting patients or be part of a network with connections there.

Establishing Care

Once your student finds a doctor, they should get care established as soon as they are able and not wait until they’re sick. This will allow the doctor to take a full medical history and address any concerns without the added stress of an urgent or even emergent situation. They can help manage prescriptions and any chronic conditions without having to go through parents.