Serving the Needs of Graduate and Professional Students at UCR
Graduate Student Health Insurance Program (GSHIP)
This page provides information about the UC Riverside Graduate Student Health Insurance Program (GSHIP). Similar to SHIP, GSHIP provides comprehensive health coverage and offers a range of health benefits designed to meet the needs of graduate students and their dependents, such as extended mental health services, family planning, and coverage for dependents.
Click here to visit the UC SHIP website for the most up-to-date information
The UCR GSHIP coverage is determined by the collaboration of the UCSHIP Executive Committee, UCSHIP Advisory Board and UCR SHIP Committee. The GSHIP Officer works with the UCR SHIP Committee, comprising of SHS staff, undergraduate students and graduate students. The GSHIP Officer also participates with the UCSHIP Advisory Committee, consisting of students from other UC universities and UCSHIP board members.
Eligibility and Enrollment
Who is Eligible: All registered domestic and international graduate students are automatically enrolled in GSHIP. Non-registered students and dependents may enroll voluntarily under certain conditions.
Adding Dependents: Spouses, domestic partners, and children can be enrolled voluntarily. Proof of dependent status is required.
Special Enrollment Periods: Special enrollment is available for those who lose eligibility under a prior health plan or experience a qualifying life event such as marriage or birth of a child.
Benefits Overview
GSHIP provides a variety of benefits, including but not limited to:
- Preventive Care: Routine check-ups, immunizations, and screenings.
- Emergency Services: Coverage for emergency room visits and urgent care.
- Mental Health Services: Counseling and psychological services.
- Prescription Drugs: Coverage through OptumRx.
- Maternity and Reproductive Health Services: Includes prenatal care and fertility preservation.
How to Use the Plan
Student Health Services (SHS): For non-emergency and non-urgent care, students must first contact SHS for treatment and referrals.
Click here to visit the Student Health Services Website
Network Providers: Using network providers will reduce out-of-pocket costs. Referrals from SHS are required for specialist visits.
Out-of-Network Services: Higher out-of-pocket costs and potential balance billing.
Additional Information
Appeals Process: If a claim is denied, members have the right to a full and fair review. Information on how to file an appeal is provided in the benefit booklet.
Travel Expenses: For certain approved surgeries and procedures, travel expenses may be covered.
Waiving UC SHIP Coverage
If you have other health insurance that meets the University of California's requirements, you can waive UC SHIP coverage to avoid overlapping insurance. Here’s how you can do it:
Eligibility and Requirements: Your alternative health insurance plan must meet specific criteria. It should provide unrestricted access to in-network primary care providers, hospitals, and full non-emergency medical and behavioral health care within a reasonable distance of campus or your place of residence. This applies to various plan types, including Medi-Cal, Medicare, TRICARE, Veterans Affairs benefits, HMOs, and others.
Waiver Process: You must submit a waiver application and supporting documents before the start of each academic year. This waiver must be renewed annually. The waiver application is managed through the Academic HealthPlans (AHP) website, where you will need to upload required documentation, including your medical ID card and insurance policy details.
Deadlines: The waiver periods are as follows:
- Fall Quarter: June 1st to September 12th
- Winter Quarter: November 1st to December 12th
- Spring Quarter: February 1st to March 12th
Verification: Once you submit your waiver application, UC Riverside will verify your active enrollment in the alternative health insurance plan. This verification is repeated before the start of each term. If your waiver is denied, you will be enrolled in UC SHIP and charged the corresponding fee.
Appeals: If your waiver is denied, you can appeal the decision by providing proof of your current insurance coverage.