There is a disclaimer statement on the front of our insurance brochure that says the plan benefits are governed by a master policy that is on file at our student health center. Is this statement valid? When I asked for the policy at the health center they told me they did not have it.

SLBA's primary legal counsel, Alexander & Crabtree, is not aware of any jurisdiction where these kinds of disclaimers have been found to be valid. They also note that these disclaimers are rarely part of the insurance policy or certificate of coverage. Health insurance programs must provide benefits that are consistent with the information provided to consumers in program marketing material. Even if your Student Health Center had been able to provide you with a copy of the policy, it would not affect the benefits you were entitled to unless it was consistent with the program marketing material.<

Nothing in this FAQ response from SLBA should be construed to be legal advice or legal opinion. Legal questions should be reviewed by the legal counsel for the college or university submitting the inquiry.