SHIP Benefits

The SHIP is designed to provide health insurance coverage for you (and your dependents) whether you are on campus, studying abroad, traveling, or on a leave of absence.  

Wherever you are, you will want to review the SHIP Member's Guide (pdf) to make sure you understand how to maximize your benefits under the plan. 

In the United States

In the U.S., you can locate a provider using Aetna's DocFind Service at www.aetna.com/docfind. Be sure to include the zip code of the area where services will be received and to select Aetna Standard Open Choice PPO as the health plan type. If you choose to see a provider outside of the Aetna network, benefits are available to you at the non-preferred care level.

Outside of the U.S.

The SHIP provides medical coverage when you are outside of the United States. All SHIP benefits are available to you at the non-preferred care level. You are not required to pre-certify for care provided to you outside of the U.S. In most cases, you will have to pay for care at the time the service is provided. You should make sure to receive an itemized bill and a receipt. These must include the date of service, the dollar amount of the visit and the diagnosis. Submit them to: 

Aetna Student Health Claims Administrators
P.O. Box 981106
El Paso, Texas 79998

To contact the Aetna Student Health Claims Administrators, Inc. outside of the United States, please call (617) 218-8400 (collect calls are accepted). 

Emergency Travel Assistance Services 

If you experience a medical emergency while traveling more than 100 miles from home or campus, you have access to a comprehensive group of emergency assistance services provided by On Call International. 

Eligible participants have immediate access to doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and other services when faced with an emergency while traveling. The On Call International Operations Center can be reached 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to provide services. Review the details of this program for medical assistance.