Medical Coverage

Veterans Affairs (VA) medical coverage allows student veterans at Tufts to waive the student health insurance plan (SHIP) through UnitedHealthcare StudentResources. Although it meets the minimum requirement necessary to waive the SHIP, it is important to note that VA benefits only cover certain care at VA facilities and is not considered medical insurance. Veterans will still be able to be seen at Tufts Health Service but will be charged for external or send-out services, including lab work, prescriptions, imaging, specialist visits, or emergency care. VA benefits will also not cover any care received abroad. We urge students to consider their health needs and review the UnitedHealthcare StudentResources plan prior to waiving their enrollment. Additional information can be found here.

The Health and Wellness Fee, which allows student to utilize services such as the health and counseling centers, cannot be waived.

To waive the SHIP using VA medical coverage, please do the following:

1. Enroll in VA benefits, if eligible, and obtain documentation of coverage. Veterans can call the VA Health Enrollment Center directly at 877-222-8387 or contact the Eligibility/Admissions Department at the VA where they receive care.
   1. Contact info for Bedford VA
   2. Contact info for Boston VA

2. Complete the health insurance waiver on SIS every year between June 1 and July 31^st to prevent being charged automatically for the SHIP.
3. Upload proof of coverage through the Patient Portal under the “Insurance” section.

Student may direct any questions about this process to studenthealthinsurance@tufts.edu

Those currently serving in the National Guard or Reserves may be eligible for a medical insurance plan through Tricare.