Before You Get Care
Preparing ahead of time can help you avoid unexpected bills and make the most of your Tufts Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). Use this guide to know what to do before your appointment.
1. Confirm Your Provider is In-Network
You’ll save money by seeing a provider who is in-network with UnitedHealthcare StudentResources (UHCSR).
What to Say When You Call the Provider’s Office: "Hi, I’m a student covered by UnitedHealthcare StudentResources through Tufts University. Do you accept this insurance?"
2. Make Sure the Provider Has Your Insurance Information
Before your appointment, give your insurance card to the provider so they can bill your insurance directly.
What to Say When You Check In:"I’d like to make sure you have the correct insurance information on file. Can I give you my card so you can bill my insurance directly?"
3. Bring Your Insurance Card
You’ll need to show your insurance card at your appointment.
Options:
- Digital card: Download it from the UHCSR website or the UHCSR app.
- Physical card: Keep it in your wallet or bag.
Make sure your card shows the correct plan and is up to date.
Learn More About Your Insurance Card
4. Understand Your Costs
Even with insurance, you may have to pay part of the cost — like a copay, deductible, or coinsurance.
Ask About Costs Before Your Appointment:"Can you tell me what my estimated cost will be after insurance? If not, what would it cost if I paid without insurance?"
You can also use the UHCSR Cost Estimator Tool.
5. Ask For a Good Faith Estimate (If Paying Out of Pocket or Unsure of Costs)
If you don’t have insurance or plan to pay yourself, you have the right to ask for a Good Faith Estimate.
Even if you have insurance, a Good Faith Estimate can still be helpful if the provider isn’t able to tell you what you’ll owe after insurance. You can use the estimate to get a general idea of the total cost, then apply your copay, coinsurance, and any deductible you still owe to figure out your share.
Keep in mind, your actual payment is usually lower than your estimate because insurance plans negotiate discounted rates with providers, and you benefit from those lower rates.
A Good Faith Estimate is:
- A written estimate of your expected charges.
- Provided within 1–3 business days.
- Something you can use to dispute your bill if it’s more than $400 over the estimate.
What To Say: "I’d like a Good Faith Estimate in writing of what I’ll owe for my visit."
Learn more about your rights under the No Surprises Act on the After You Get Care page.
6. Compare Prices Between Providers (optional)
Even in-network, prices can vary between providers.
What to Say When Calling Providers:"I’m looking to schedule [service], and I’m comparing prices. Can you share an estimate of the cost with insurance and without?"
Summary
- Check that your provider is in-network.
- Give them your insurance information and bring your card.
- Ask about your estimated costs and consider using the Cost Estimator.
- If paying out of pocket — or if the provider can’t give you a clear estimate — ask for a Good Faith Estimate.
- Compare prices if you have time.