What You Need To Know

Any time you are accessing services under UC SHIP within 50 miles of UCSB campus, you need a referral -except for emergency room care, urgent care clinics, pediatric care, obstetrics services, gynecological care, and LiveHealth Online virtual visits. For non-emergency or non-urgent medical care within 50 miles of UCSB, you must seek treatment with a Student Health provider (during regular hours of operation).
Student Health providers will issue you a referral when additional care or a specialist is needed. Care under UC SHIP outside of the 50 mile radius does not require a referral, with the exception of gender affirming services.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Without a referral from Student Health, some care will not be covered by UC SHIP. When necessary, be sure to get a referral so you are not stuck with an unexpected bill to pay.

How To Obtain a Referral

For Students seeking care inside of the 50-mile radius from UCSB:

To request a referral, go to your MyHealth portal, select messages, then new messages for student health, and scroll down to find the option to request a referral. Fill out the information requested. 

Dependents under a Student’s Plan:  

You must seek care from off-campus providers – no referral required.  

Dual Insurance Coverage:

 If you have another private Insurance plan, your private insurance may become your Primary Insurance plan when off campus. A referral will be necessary to submit any claims your private insurance may not cover. For important details about dual insurance coverage, click the button below.