Important Update: 2026-2027 Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)

Due to rising healthcare costs and increased use of the plan, the following updates have been made for the 2026-2027 academic year to help keep coverage affordable and sustainable for students.

Key Changes:

• Plan type changing from PPO to EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization)
  • No need to select a Primary Care Physician (PCP)
  • No referrals required for specialists
  • Students must use providers in-network
  • Out-of-network services are not covered, except in emergencies
  • To find an in-network provider, use the BCBS provider search and select "PPO or EPO"
• Cost-sharing updates:
  • Inpatient hospital care: coinsurance increases from 20% to 30% after deductible
  • Outpatient surgery: coinsurance increases from 20% to 30% after deductible
• Imaging services (CT/PET scans, MRIs):
  • Now a $250 copay (replacing the previous 20% coinsurance after deductible)
• Fitness and weight loss rewards have been discontinued

Additional consideration:

Students who expect higher out-of-pocket costs may want to compare other coverage options. The Massachusetts Health Connector offers an online marketplace where you can explore plans and see if you qualify for low or no-cost coverage.

I have read and acknowledge the above statements

Important Update: 2026-2027 Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)

Due to rising healthcare costs and increased use of the plan, the following updates have been made for the 2026-2027 academic year to help keep coverage affordable and sustainable for students.

Key Changes:

• Plan type changing from PPO to EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization)
  • No need to select a Primary Care Physician (PCP)
  • No referrals required for specialists
  • Students must use providers in-network
  • Out-of-network services are not covered, except in emergencies
  • To find an in-network provider, use the BCBS provider search and select "PPO or EPO"
• Cost-sharing updates:
  • Inpatient hospital care: coinsurance increases from 20% to 30% after deductible
  • Outpatient surgery: coinsurance increases from 20% to 30% after deductible
• Imaging services (CT/PET scans, MRIs):
  • Now a $250 copay (replacing the previous 20% coinsurance after deductible)
• Fitness and weight loss rewards have been discontinued

Additional consideration:

Students who expect higher out-of-pocket costs may want to compare other coverage options. The Massachusetts Health Connector offers an online marketplace where you can explore plans and see if you qualify for low or no-cost coverage.

I have read and acknowledge the above statements

Please note, with the rising costs of healthcare, and increase in utilization of the Plan, the following plan change has been made for the 2025-2026 academic year to help keep the insurance premium and the plan a viable option for all students.

• Deductible will be $2,000 (does not apply to in-network preventative care, office visits, ER visits, ambulance, lab work, x-ray, or prescription drugs).

If you are enrolling in the SHIP, be sure to familiarize yourself with the Plan prior to receiving services. For specific benefit or claims questions contact Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts at 1-888-753-6615.

We encourage students anticipating high out-of-pocket costs to compare other insurance options to the SHIP. The Massachusetts Health Connector offers information about their online insurance marketplace where you can compare and purchase insurance plans. You may be eligible for a Subsidized Health Plan (a low or no cost insurance program for qualifying uninsured adults).

I have read and acknowledge the above statements