Dear students,

As we approach the start of the fall semester, now is the time to prepare for a healthy and safe school year. A key component of your experience may be something you do not think about often: insurance.

At its core, insurance is about well-being. Having the peace of mind for the unexpected can make all the difference in our health and wellness. 

Of course even without health insurance, you have free access to many services at University Health Service (UHS), including most clinic visits, nurse advice 24/7, wellness coaching, and initial evaluations for physical therapy.

Additionally Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers free in-person and telehealth counseling services, among other mental health resources.

Some important insurance plans are highlighted below and more options can be found on our website. Learn about copays, deductibles, premiums, etc. in this UHS Health Insurance 101 video.

Highlighted insurance plans
The Domestic Student Health Insurance Plan is a low-priced voluntary plan available to all domestic U-M students through Blue Care Network of Michigan. This comprehensive health insurance covers students throughout the U.S. International students use the International Student and Scholar Health Insurance Plan.

Tuition Insurance covers students who need to completely withdraw from a semester due to a physical or psychological illness or injury. The insurance will refund up to 75% of the insured term’s costs (less any refund or credit due from the university) for tuition and mandatory fees.

Travel Abroad Health Insurance through Geo Blue is required for students who go abroad on university-related travel but it is also an affordable option for students traveling abroad for personal/leisure reasons.

Health insurance from home?
If you are using a health insurance plan from home, follow these tips.

  • Make sure you have a paper or digital copy of your medical and prescription insurance cards
  • Check to see if your insurance provides coverage in Ann Arbor
  • If not, consider asking for an “out of area waiver” from your insurer

Some uninsured students may be eligible for Michigan Medicaid. Check your eligibility on the Healthy Michigan Plan website or reach out to the Student Insurance Office for guidance. Our team can answer your questions and provide guidance about your options.

Stay healthy, Wolverines,

Robert D. Ernst, M.D.
Chief Health Officer
Associate Vice President of Student Life
Executive Director of University Health Service

UPDATES AND REMINDERS

COVID-19 preparation: What to do before you arrive on campus

  • Take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test, even if you are not symptomatic
  • Pack rapid antigen tests and masks to keep with you
  • Understand your testing options once you are on campus, in case you develop symptoms or have an exposure
  • Have a plan for where you will go if you test positive for COVID-19 and need to isolate

Attention new students: complete the student health information form!
Incoming domestic students should complete the UHS student health information form to submit health insurance information if they haven’t done so already. F-1 and J-1 international students are automatically enrolled in U-M’s international student health insurance and do not need to complete this form.

Student Health Advisory Council (SHAC): calling new members
Interested in contributing to health and wellness planning at U-M? Join SHAC to partner with campus leadership and share your perspective and ideas. Complete this form to let us know you are interested. More details will be shared soon.

Traffic safety: new laws and reminders
Recently the state of Michigan passed new traffic safety legislation, making it illegal to use a phone while operating a vehicle in Michigan. Now is also a good time to revisit regulations around motorized scooters. Do your part to keep yourself and those around you safe.

Community Matters
Earlier this month you received a notice that this fall’s Community Matters online courses are available. As a reminder, these courses are an important part of our community-wide well-being.