Last updated: Nov. 4, 2025
LCMC Health and UnitedHealthcare, the insurance company that administers the Tulane-sponsored Student Health Insurance Plan (T-SHIP), have reached a verbal agreement that keeps LCMC facilities in-network for T-SHIP members while the final contract language is completed. This means your T-SHIP coverage will work the same as usual when you receive care at LCMC facilities.
If anything changes that affects your T-SHIP coverage at LCMC facilities, we will notify students and update this FAQ.
Would this change affect my care at Campus Health?
No. Services provided through the Health Center for Student Care, the Campus Health Pharmacy and Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) will continue as usual. Access, billing and eligibility for on-campus services remain unchanged.
Would this change affect all care received through LCMC?
Right now, no. LCMC facilities and providers remain in-network for T-SHIP members.
If LCMC facilities were to become out-of-network in the future, here are two things to know:
- Providers and facilities are billed separately. Some healthcare providers who work in LCMC facilities may still be considered in-network providers for T-SHIP even if the facility itself becomes out-of-network.
- Facility-based services may be billed differently. Services such as imaging, lab work and hospital procedures are often billed by the facility. These services may be billed at out-of-network rates, even if the provider who ordered or performed them is an in-network provider.
These distinctions only affect coverage if network status changes. If that occurs, we will notify students and help you understand your options.
I am currently receiving ongoing or specialty care through LCMC. What should I know?
If you are in the middle of ongoing treatment, you may be eligible for a temporary coverage option called continuity of care, which allows certain patients to continue receiving care at in-network rates for a limited time, even if the LCMC facility becomes out-of-network.
Continuity of care may apply when a patient is in the middle of active, ongoing treatment that cannot be safely interrupted. Examples may include:
- Active treatment for a serious or complex medical condition
- Care related to a recent surgery, including postoperative follow-up
- Pregnancy care
Eligibility for continuity of care is determined by UnitedHealthcare on a case-by-case basis.
Continuity of care, if approved, is time-limited, so we encourage students who believe they may qualify to contact UnitedHealthcare as soon as possible to begin the request process.
How do I request continuity of care?
Right now your care can continue as usual. If network status were to change in the future, some students receiving active treatment may qualify for a temporary coverage option called continuity of care. This allows certain patients to continue receiving care at in-network rates for a limited time, even if the LCMC facility becomes out-of-network.
Continuity of care may apply when a patient is in the middle of active, ongoing treatment that cannot be safely interrupted. Examples may include:
- Active treatment for a serious or complex medical condition
- Care related to a recent surgery, including postoperative follow-up
- Pregnancy care
Eligibility for continuity of care is determined by UnitedHealthcare on a case-by-case basis.
If this scenario ever becomes relevant, Campus Health can help you understand your options. If continuity of care were needed, you would:
- Call the number on your UnitedHealthcare ID card and ask about requesting continuity of care.
- UnitedHealthcare will explain next steps and provide any required forms.
- Your provider may need to complete part of the request form.
Campus Health cannot approve or submit continuity of care requests, but we are here to support you and help answer questions.
What if I need emergency care?
In an emergency, always seek care at the nearest emergency room or call for emergency help immediately.
Emergency care is covered at in-network rates under T-SHIP, even if you receive care at an out-of-network facility.
Emergency Phone Numbers:
- Uptown Campus: 504-865-5911
- Downtown Campus: 504-988-5555
- Off Campus: 911
Calling any of the above can prompt an ambulance dispatch. Clearly state the condition of the person experiencing the emergency and provide the exact location. If you are in a residence hall, please notify a staff member immediately.
If follow-up care is recommended after your emergency visit, please contact Campus Health for guidance. We can help coordinate any necessary referrals and support your next steps.
What if I need help finding a different provider or transferring care?
Campus Health can help you navigate community care options if you ever need support finding a provider or transferring care. This service is available to T-SHIP members at any time and is not dependent on network status changes.
If you would like assistance, please email campushealth@tulane.edu.
