Health and Safety Information

While abroad you will encounter many new experiences and changes from your home.  In order to make sure that your study abroad experience is as enjoyable as possible, please take precautions before you travel. Insurance

Medical Insurance and CISI

U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide for payment of medical services outside the United States. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas may face extreme difficulties.

That is why the University of Wisconsin System has mandated that all University of Wisconsin students studying/traveling abroad under a UW-sponsored program must enroll in health insurance through
Cultural Insurance Services International 2010-2011(CISI).

In addition, certain countries require that foreign students participating in study abroad programs purchase health insurance in the country to which they are travelling; it is the students' responsibility to make sure that such a requirement is in effect for their study abroad program. Students can check with CIS if they are not sure.

Health insurance is included in the program fees. For most programs, the insurance is provided by Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) ; this insurance is designed for the University of Wisconsin System study abroad and international exchange programs.

Coverage duration varies by program location and term, but generally it will start a day or two before the official program start date and terminate within a week or two of the program's conclusion. Participants may extend their coverage (if the student continues to travel after the academic program ends) by contacting Cultural Insurance Services International at (800) 303-8120 or (203) 399-5132 or by writing to CISI at River Plaza, 9 West Broad Street, Stamford, CT 06902-3788. Please see the World Class Coverage Plan brochure included in the student pre-departure packet for additional information.

If you need a full-time enrollment letter in order to maintain your current health insurance coverage, please contact a Study Abroad Advisor in our office for assistance.

Their Brochure and Claim Form can be downloaded here. UW-Parkside's policy number is GLM N04835256

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CISI Health Insurance

Travel Clinic

Travel Clinics

Health and Safety Resources

• International Travel Information from the World Health Organization
• Safety information from the University of Wisconsin - Madison
• Register your travel with the U.S. State Department
• Sara's Wish Foundation: Know Before You Go Video
• CISI Overseas Health Coverage 

Students Travelling Abroad with Severe Food Allergies

        
          Students with Food Allergies are highly recommended to bring a laminated card listing their allergies            in the local language. selectwisely.com is a good tool to purchase such a card and foodallergiestogo.com           is helpful for tips and suggestions for students with food allergies.