Student Health Insurance & VA Healthcare Options
The University Health Center is located on campus for immediate non-urgent care. All undergraduate students are automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) which is covered by Chapter 31 and 33 VA education benefits; waivers must be submitted for other health care coverage if you wish to opt out of the SHIP.
For more information about this program, go to https://health.umd.edu/insurance-and-billing/mandatory-insurance-and-waiver. Please note you will need a University ID Number to enroll, so you will not be able to enroll until you are accepted to the University and have received your UID. You must follow the instructions on the Health Center website provided at the link above to either waive or enroll in SHIP.
There are also many Veterans Affairs medical facilities in the area. To find the VA medical facility closest to you, use their website. If you are not yet enrolled in the VA medical system, you can find a guide on how to enroll in the VA healthcare system here https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/.
OIF/OEF Veteran’s Health Care
OIF/OEF combat veterans who received honorable discharges are eligible for free care for five years after discharge, so enrolling in the VA medical system is highly recommended. Learn more about Operation Enduring Freedom Veterans health issues here.
Women Veteran Health
The Department of Veterans Affairs emphasizes the vital role women play in the military, and the importance of providing quality medical care to female veterans. There are now specific programs to assist women veterans in meeting their medical needs through the VA system. Learn more about Women Veterans Health Care here.