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Using the CMU SHIP

The CMU SHIP is a national plan, with participating in-network providers and pharmacies in every state.  There are many options for finding care, but the most cost effective way to seek care is to find in-network providers, who participate in the plan.

Navigating the SHIP

Navigating the health care system in the United States can be complex. For students who are enrolled in the CMU SHIP, your first step is to Register with Highmark. Once registered, you can track your claims, order a new member ID card, download a digital card and learn about plan details.

Finding Care

If you have an emergency, call 911 or go to your closest emergency room. 

For routine care, University Health Services (UHS) does not recommend specific providers, but if you are in need of non-emergent care:

  • For Pittsburgh based students: call UHS and speak with a member of the medical team (412-268-2157, option 2). Depending on why you need to see a provider, the medical staff can help you make an appointment at UHS or refer you to a specialist. You can find more information the UHS Services and Fees page. 
  • Call your plan's Member Services Department, which can help locate participating providers and answer questions relating to plan benefits. For most plans, phone numbers can be found on the back of your insurance member ID card(s).  
  • If enrolled in the SHIP, search for medical, dental and vision care at your desired location via the Highmark portal.  

Before scheduling any appointment, we always recommend that you verify directly with each provider, or facility, that they participate in the CMU SHIP.

Mental Health

Mental health services are covered 100% if the provider is in network with the SHIP. If you are enrolled in the SHIP, there are a few options for locating services in your area:

  • Log into the Thriving Campus website. Enter your location and select the insurance type (BCBS PPO). We recommend that students verify the provider participates in the SHIP before booking the appointment.
  • Telehealth meetings with an online therapist or psychiatrist through Well 360 Virtual Health. Students can access Well 360 through their Highmark portal.
  • Find a participating in-network provider through Highmark or call Highmark Member Services at 800-241-5704.

Medical, Dental, and Vision Care, and Pharmacies

The CMU SHIP is a national plan, with participating in-network providers in every state. Search for medical care, dental care, vision care and pharmacies in your desired location in the Highmark portal.

For Medical Care:

  • Log in/register (you can do this using your member ID card).
  • Select Find Doctors and Rx.
  • Select Find a Doctor or Hospital / Find a Vision Care Provider / Find a Dentist.
  • For medical services, enter BCBS PPO under the Network Tab.
  • Enter location.
  • Select the category of care.

Always be sure to confirm directly with the health care provider or facility that they are a participating provider in the CMU SHIP.

For Prescriptions:

  • Log in/register (you can do this using your member ID card).
  • Select Find Doctors and Rx.
  • Go to Find a Pharmacy and select National Plus Network Pharmacy.

If you are living or traveling abroad, the CMU SHIP medical plan also provides members with a global network of healthcare providers through BCBS Global Core, along with 24 hour emergency medical and travel assistance through the AXA Travel Assistance Program.

Before scheduling any appointment, we always recommend that you verify directly with each provider, or facility, that they participate in the CMU SHIP.

Mental Health Services
Review CMU’s Mental Health Benefits.

Going to Your Appointment

When you are in need of medical services, the first step is to find a provider. When you are ready to go to your appointment, remember the following:

  • Be sure you bring your insurance member ID card. The office will likely ask you for your card, and you might need it for any required paperwork. It is best to arrive at an appointment a few minutes early to allow time for this process.
  • Have the name and address of your pharmacy for any medication that needs to be ordered.  
  • If going for a first-time visit, gather any relevant medical records, lab results, or scans (such as X-rays or MRIs) to bring with you to the appointment. It is also helpful to bring a list of any current medications.
  • If the provider prescribes further testing (such as a scan or lab work), you should have that order with you when you leave the office. You will want to schedule any testing with an in-network provider.
  • Be prepared to pay a copay for non-routine visits. You can see a list of copays in the SHIP Summary of Benefits and Coverage.