The Folks Come Through: My College (Health) Care Package

I’m FREE! I am out on my own with no one to tell me what time to go to bed anymore. I got moved into my dorm without any tears (on my end anyway). I haven’t gotten lost on campus yet which is always a win. I am now officially a college student with nothing to holding me back.

I am having a great time getting to know my new roommate and classmates, and then it starts – the crud. First, it was just a little tickle at the back of my throat, and then I noticed a little pressure behind my eyes. I have stumbled upon the germs that so many do when they start college. Now what? Where do I go now that I’m feeling under the weather and not at home? What do I need to make an appointment?

Aha! I just remembered, my folks left that folder in the top drawer of my desk back in my dorm room. You know, that folder full of paperwork that I was sure was just another sign of my overprotective parents, something I’d never have to use. As I open it up I realize that they gave me a care package before we were even separated:

• Immunization record – all of those cartoon bandages were apparently necessary
• An ID Card – with instructions on how to order a new one
• Standard Authorization Form – that I need to complete if I want someone to be able to discuss any insurance related matters with the insurance company. They even included more than one in case I need to complete another form for my doctors.

There’s even information about how to find a doctor with something called a Provider Finder. And an app¹! Having everything in my phone is going to make it so easy (and they said I was on my phone too much, imagine that!). And I have a new title now, “adult dependent”. Looks like I’m in charge of my own health and will need to start keeping track of it all on something called Blue Access for Members^SM. I logged in just to scope it out and found even more resources!

Hold the phone! Literally, hold the phone. I don’t even have to make an appointment if I don’t have time. I can meet with an independently contracted, board-certified doctor 24 hours a day, seven days a week, via that mobile app, an online video or my phone with something called a “virtual visit”^2-3. This is perfect with my busy class schedule.

This (health) care package is just what I needed. Good ‘ol folks knew just what I would need when the time came. Now, I wonder what they’ll put in my next care package?

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2. Internet/Wi-Fi connection is needed for computer access. Data charges may apply. Check your cellular data or internet service provider’s plan for details. Non-emergency medical service in Idaho, Montana and New Mexico is limited to interactive audio/video (video only), along with the ability to prescribe. Non-emergency medical service in Arkansas is limited to interactive audio/video (video only) for initial consultation, along with the ability to prescribe. Behavioral Health service is limited to interactive audio/video (video only), along with the ability to prescribe in all states. Service availability depends on location at the time of consultation.
3. Virtual Visits, Powered by MDLIVE may not be available on all plans. Virtual Visits are subject to the terms and conditions of your benefit plan, including benefits, limitations, and exclusions. MDLIVE operates subject to state regulations and may not be available in certain states. MDLIVE is not an insurance product nor a prescription fulfillment warehouse. MDLIVE does not guarantee that a prescription will be written. MDLIVE does not prescribe DEA-controlled substances, non-therapeutic drugs and certain other drugs that may be harmful because of their potential for abuse. MDLIVE physicians reserve the right to deny care for potential misuse of services.

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