Insurance and Health Matters
Student Health Insurance
All students enrolled in an Alliance program receive insurance through our health insurance provider, Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI). CISI is one of the leading providers of health insurance for Americans studying overseas and has an outstanding reputation.
You will receive your CISI insurance card and detailed information about your insurance coverage in the mail prior to departure overseas. Please bring both of these with you to China. Note that SHUFE students must present the insurance card in order to enroll in classes. You may also access information about your insurance at:
http://culturalinsurance.com/arcadia0041/arcadia0708.pdf
CISI coverage begins the day that the group flight departs the U.S. and ends on the day the program concludes. Students who travel within China or to other countries during this period will be fully insured. Students who stay in China beyond the end of the program may contact CISI to extend their insurance coverage at a cost of approximately $35 per month.
For questions regarding claims, coverage, or extending coverage please call 203-399-5130. Your Resident Director will also provide information during orientation about where to seek medical attention in Beijing or Shanghai.
Prescriptions
If you plan to take any prescription drugs while in China, we recommend that you take a supply to last you the entire term. Also pack a prescription from your doctor for any medications you take to China. This is just an extra precaution in case your luggage is searched and you need to verify why you are bringing the medication with you. You should consult your doctor prior to departure about the need for any monitoring while you are in China. If you plan to purchase a medication in China, you will need to bring a copy of your prescription and see a Chinese physician to obtain a new one. Prescriptions may be sent through the mail, but the mail is not always reliable and there may be delays in customs, so it is best to bring all of the medication you think you will need for the term.
If you wear prescription eyeglasses, you should bring a copy of your prescription. It is easy and inexpensive to have glasses made in China. Contact lenses and solutions are also available in China, though not all brands you are familiar with will be available.
Immunizations
Vaccinations are not required for entry to China unless you have come from an area known to have reported cases of yellow fever or cholera. We recommend that you consult the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinationChina.aspx and also talk with your doctor to determine which vaccines you need before going to China. You should also make sure that all of your regular immunizations are up to date. The CDC also operates an international traveler's hotline that provides up-to-date vaccination requirements for any region or country you select. The number is 1-(877) FYI-TRIP (394-8747).
