Can Post-Doc Fellows enroll dependents in health insurance?
Yes, eligible dependents include a Post-Doc’s spouse or same sex civil union or domestic partner, and dependent children under age 26.
If a PostDoc Fellow accepts a full-time position at Rutgers is there a waiting period for State Health Benefits to become effective?
Yes, the Post-Doc Fellow would be considered a new employee subject to a 60-day benefits waiting period from the date of hire. There is an exception for ten-month academic year employees appointed from September 1 to June 30. Their coverage becomes effective September 1.
Is life insurance provided for Post Doc Fellows?
Yes. Post Doc Fellows receive group term life insurance coverage through UNUM Term Life Insurance Company.
What health insurance coverage is available for Post-Doc Fellows?
Post-Doc Fellows may enroll in the Rutgers Post-Doc Student Health Insurance for the duration of their Post-Doc Fellow appointment. The plan is underwritten by UnitedHealthcare and administered by University Health Plans (UHP). The plan is a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) which offers both “in-network” and “out-of-network” benefits. Participants are not required to select a primary care physician or receive referrals prior to visiting specialists. Out-of-network providers require members to pay deductibles and coinsurance. Detailed insurance plan information is available on the UHP website.
What is a “PostDoctoral (PostDoc) Fellow?"
Post-Doc Fellows are individuals holding doctoral degrees who are affiliated with Rutgers University to continue their education. Post-Doc Fellows receive funding from individual or institutional awards and are appointed for one, two, or three year periods. Post-Doc Fellows have no employee/employer relationship with Rutgers University.
When a PostDoc Fellow’s appointment ends, can health insurance be continued through COBRA?
No, COBRA provisions do not apply since Post-Doc Fellows are not employees of Rutgers University. When coverage ends, Post-Doc Fellows can contact United Health Care Student Resources directly at 1-800-505-4160 to request conversion to a private policy.
Where can I find a list of participating physicians?
For a listing of participating providers, please use University Health Plans.
Who pays for PostDoc Fellow health insurance coverage?
Funds are taken from the Post-Doc’s individual award or institutional award to pay for coverage. Rates are available online.