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UC SHIP Changes for 2026

Update on Billing

Effective February 3, 2026, Student Health Services (SHS) will begin directly billing UnitedHealthcare PPO plan for eligible services.

What this means for you:

  • If you are enrolled in UnitedHealthcare PPO, the clinic can submit claims directly to your insurance, and you may utilize SHS for your primary care needs.
  • You may be responsible for any applicable copays, coinsurance, or deductibles, based on your specific plan benefits.
  • Prior to this date, students with this plan may have been required to pay before services were rendered and seek reimbursement.

Important notes:

  • The new direct billing option applies only to UnitedHealthcare PPO plan at this time. Other providers will be added in the future.
  • Coverage and payment are subject to your individual plan’s terms and conditions.
  • Please bring your insurance card to your appointment and verify your coverage in advance.

Questions:

If you have questions about this update or would like assistance confirming your eligibility, please contact SHS or your insurance provider directly.

We are excited to offer this expanded service and hope it helps make accessing care more convenient and affordable for you and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

What insurance plans are included in this change?

This update applies only to UnitedHealthcare PPO plan. Other UnitedHealthcare plans (such as HMO or EPO plans) are not included at this time.

When does direct billing begin?

Direct billing for the UnitedHealthcare PPO plan begins on February 3, 2026. Services provided before this date are not eligible for direct billing.

Will I still have to pay anything at the time of my visit?

Possibly. You may be responsible for copays, coinsurance, deductibles, or non-covered services, depending on your specific insurance plan.

Do I need to do anything before my appointment?

Please bring your insurance card to your appointment. We also recommend confirming your benefits directly with your insurance provider prior to your visit.

What if I paid for services at UCSD Student Health out of pocket prior to the February 3, 2026 effective date?

Our clinic contract to bill your insurance company is effective 2/3/2026. Any services obtained prior to this date for payment would need to be requested by the patient. We are happy to provide an itemized statement that you can use to request reimbursement from your insurance. Please contact UC San Diego Student Health Insurance at (858) 534-2124 or email us at SHIP3@ucsd.edu to request a statement or ask any questions. Please work with your health plan to see what is required for reimbursement. Contact the member services phone line on the back of your insurance card to start the reimbursement process.

Will all services at the Student Health Services be covered?

Coverage is determined by your insurance plan. Some services may not be covered or may require prior authorization. The clinic can submit claims, but coverage is not guaranteed. We recommend confirming your benefits directly with your insurance provider prior to your visit. To assist you with reducing out-of-pocket expenses, please consider the Reduced Access Fee for Tritons (RAFT) Bridge Program. For more information about RAFT membership, please visit our website.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

For billing or clinic-related questions, please contact Student Health Services at (858) 534-2124. For more detailed benefit information, contact UnitedHealthcare directly using the member services phone number on your insurance card.

I opted into a Reduced Access for Tritons (RAFT) membership. Will this change my RAFT pricing or benefits?

No, if you enrolled in a RAFT membership, the Student Health Services will continue to honor your RAFT membership and pricing for the remainder of the 2025–2026 academic year, regardless of this new direct billing option.

Can I cancel my RAFT enrollment if I have the UnitedHealthcare PPO?

If you would like to discuss canceling your RAFT enrollment, please contact Student Health Services as soon as possible at (858) 534-2124 or email SHIP3@ucsd.edu.