The University of Kansas has announced a significant update regarding the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) for the upcoming academic year. Provost Barbara Bichelmeyer has revealed that students enrolled in SHIP will experience a decrease in costs for the 2025–26 academic year. This move aims to make healthcare services more affordable for students across the state.
Enrollment for the SHIP is currently open, with coverage set to begin on August 1. The plan, administered by UnitedHealthcare Student Resources, offers various benefits and details about eligibility. Students can find more information on the Office of Graduate Studies’ website.
Eligibility for the SHIP is divided into two categories: incentivized and voluntary. Incentivized students, including international students and certain graduate programs, may be required to carry insurance. They are also eligible to purchase coverage for spouses and dependents. Voluntary students, on the other hand, are domestic undergraduate and graduate students with programs that do not mandate health coverage.
For the upcoming year, premiums for both incentivized and voluntary students will see a 6% decrease. Incentivized students will pay $2,661 for student-only coverage, with some of the premium being subsidized for certain positions. Voluntary students will pay $5,105 annually for student-only coverage.
Students enrolled in the SHIP will receive benefits for various services at Watkins Health Services, including full coverage for physician visits, mental health treatment, and substance use disorder treatment. Prescription drugs filled at Watkins will have a $5 copay for generics, while brand-name medications will require a 40% student contribution.
The decision to reduce premiums follows discussions within the Kansas Board of Regents Student Insurance Advisory Committee. The committee aimed to align SHIP rates with the broader health insurance market while acknowledging the financial burden that insurance costs may pose to students.
Over the years, SHIP premiums have fluctuated, with a notable increase in 2022 for voluntary participants. The recent decrease in premiums reflects efforts to provide more affordable options for students. The provost has encouraged students to explore alternative plans on the federal health insurance marketplace.
Students interested in enrolling in the SHIP can visit the Office of Graduate Studies’ Student Health Insurance page for more information or reach out via email for assistance. This update underscores the university’s commitment to enhancing student access to essential healthcare services.
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