What does this mean?

All benefits provided by your current 2019-2020 BCBS Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) will end and MassHealth will become your primary insurance. If you have questions about when your SHIP ends, contact University Health Plans at 800-437-6448 or info@univhealthplans.com.

What do I need to do when my SHIP ends?

Prior to your SHIP’s end date, you should contact MassHealth Customer Service at 800-841-2900 to confirm your MassHealth benefits are active. Ask MassHealth to verify your "last determination in the HIX system".

If my MassHealth is active, how will my MassHealth change once my SHIP ends?

When your SHIP ends, if your MassHealth is active it will become your primary health insurance coverage and you will have access to the MassHealth Network.

• MassHealth will assign you an Accountable Care Organization (ACO) to replace your SHIP.  Please note, you have a limited plan selection period. The provider and behavioral health networks can vary from ACO to ACO so it is important to review your assignment and make changes if necessary within the 90 day selection period. Mass Health will mail you an enrollment package in August, but you can view and compare plan information HERE or call MassHealth Customer Service at 800-841-2900 starting when our SHIP ends to expedite your ACO election.   

When my SHIP ends, will I be able to see the same providers as I did when I had the SHIP?

• If you have been seeing a provider who currently only accepts your SHIP, and does not accept MassHealth or your ACO, you will need to find a new provider that accepts MassHealth or you ACO.
• Any prior authorizations under your SHIP plan will end when your SHIP ends.

If I am no longer eligible for MassHealth, what are my options?

• If you are eligible and your MassHealth is inactive, work with MassHealth to reinstate your benefits before your last day of coverage in the MHPA Program to avoid being uninsured. Once you are active, select an ACO that meets your healthcare needs.
• If MassHealth advises you are not eligible, ask if you are eligible for a subsidized health plan through the Massachusetts Health Connector. Note: plans through the Health Connector are not MassHealth. You need to complete the enrollment process with the Health Connector. Deadlines apply.
• If you are not eligible for MassHealth or a subsidized health plan through the Massachusetts Health Connector, you will need to purchase health insurance.
  • If you are eligible for a SHIP, purchasing the SHIP may provide you with the most cost effective plan with strong benefits.
• If you are not eligible for a SHIP, evaluate your enrollment options through the Massachusetts Health Connector, your employer or your parents. Your involuntary loss of coverage through the MHPA Program may trigger special enrollment rights to enroll in another plan outside of the regular open enrollment period.

Can I waive the SHIP next academic year?

Students mandated to have the insurance will be automatically enrolled in and charged for the SHIP for the 2020-2021 academic year. If you are enrolled in an insurance plan that meets [SCHOOL NAME] waiver requirements, you may opt out by submitting a waiver form by the deadline.

What if I have more questions?

• If you have questions about MassHealth please contact MassHealth Customer Service at 800-841-2900
• If you have questions about the enrollment and waiver process please contact University Health Plans at 800-4376448 or info@univhealthplans.com