The UW-Madison Student Health Insurance Plan for Domestic Students

Who needs health insurance?

Everyone needs comprehensive health insurance, because unexpected accidents and illnesses do occur, and treatment can be very expensive.

What about University Health Services?

All enrolled students are eligible for the medical and mental health counseling care available at University Health Services, but UHS is not a substitute for health insurance. UHS is not open evenings and weekends and does not provide emergency care, hospitalization, or specialty care for complex problems.

Are you underinsured?

Even if you have health insurance (for example, through a parent’s plan), we urge you to review it carefully to ensure that your plan provides you with sufficient coverage while you are in Madison. Many plans limit coverage to emergency room care only while you are out of the plan area, and you may have to return to your hometown for other types of treatment (such as diagnostic tests and specialty care). For other important insurance information, please visit our Frequently Asked Insurance Questions page.

Why SHIP?

SHIP is a comprehensive health insurance plan that is specifically designed to safeguard the health of UW–Madison students. The plan is not motivated by profit. By administering the plan locally at UHS, we keep costs as low as possible and ensure that the plan is tailored to the needs of our members. SHIP premiums are designated to cover the cost of claims or to improve benefits.

For 2011-12, the prescription drug benefit has been increased to $1,750.

SHIP members are protected by a nationwide network of hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical services. They receive their primary care through UHS. In addition to the services available to all enrolled students, SHIP members are fully covered for a range of preventative services, including travel and meningococcal vaccines, the HPV vaccine, and a contraceptive benefit.

How do I enroll in SHIP?

SHIP is now accepting Summer enrollments (newly eligible students only). SHIP coverage is effective from your first day of class.

Please note that domestic Summer enrollments cannot be processed online.

• Enroll at the SHIP Office – 9am to 5pm, Monday – Friday (MasterCard/Visa/Check)
• Enroll by telephone (608) 265-5232 – 9am to 5pm, Monday – Friday (MasterCard/VISA)

Parents can enroll their registered student in the SHIP office, by telephone, or by mail [pdf]. For enrollments submitted by mail, please contact the SHIP office by phone or email to obtain the proper billing amount.

The SHIP office must receive enrollment and full payment by the stated deadline.

Summer Enrollment (Newly Eligible Students Only): Within 31 days of the first day of class

SHIP Office | University Health Services
333 East Campus Mall | 7th Floor | Madison, WI 53715-1381
Phone: 608-265-5232 | Fax: 608-265-5668
shipmail@uhs.wisc.edu