University of Michigan Students to Remain Covered by Blue Cross at Campus Clinics

Blue Cross reverses previous decision to remove in-network access for UM students at university health services.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 7:20pm

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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan announced that it will continue covering University of Michigan students seeking treatment at the university's health service clinics at in-network rates, even if a new contract is not reached between the insurance company and Michigan Medicine before the June 30 deadline. This reverses Blue Cross's previous decision to remove in-network access for UM students with Blue Cross plans to the University Health and Counseling services.

Why it matters

This decision ensures that UM students with Blue Cross insurance can continue accessing essential campus health services at in-network rates, avoiding potential out-of-pocket costs. It comes after concerns were raised about the impact on students if they lost in-network access to the university's health clinics.

The details

Blue Cross said the University Health Center (UHC) has a separate agreement that excludes it from any potential disagreement between Blue Cross and Michigan Medicine. However, if students need care at other impacted Michigan Medicine facilities, their coverage would be out-of-network. The university's health center provides a range of services, many of which are already covered by the student health service fee and do not require insurance billing.

  • Blue Cross previously said UM students with Blue Cross plans would lose in-network access to University Health and Counseling services on July 1, 2026.
  • In 2025, more than 3,000 Blue Cross members enrolled in the University of Michigan student health plan visited the UHC.

The players

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

A health insurance company that provides coverage to University of Michigan students.

University of Michigan

A public research university located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, which operates the University Health Center that provides health services to students.

Michigan Medicine

The academic medical center of the University of Michigan, which includes several hospitals and clinics.

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What they’re saying

“We did a review of the policy in place, and the University Health Center (UHC) has a separate agreement (with Blue Cross) that excludes it from any potential disagreement.”

— Gabby Abel, Spokesperson, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (mlive.com)

“UHC will work with students who need care outside of the services UHC provides to ensure the students are routed to in-network providers in the area. UHC is always mindful of out-of-pocket costs and makes it a priority to assist students in this regard as many are navigating the healthcare system for the first time on their own.”

— Matt Friedman, Spokesperson, Michigan Medicine (mlive.com)

What’s next

The dispute between Blue Cross and Michigan Medicine over in-network coverage at the university's hospitals and clinics is still ongoing, and could impact students seeking care at those facilities.

The takeaway

This decision by Blue Cross ensures UM students can continue accessing essential campus health services at in-network rates, avoiding potential financial barriers to care. It highlights the importance of universities maintaining strong partnerships with insurers to support student wellbeing.