Insurance Coverage
Some gender-affirming procedures are handled differently by UC SHIP. In cases where the provider cannot bill your insurance directly, you will have to pay in full and submit a claim to be reimbursed. You have up to one year after the date of service to submit a claim.
To submit a UC SHIP claim
- Print and complete this claim form.
- Make a copy of the itemized bill/receipts(s).
- Make a copy of your referral (accessible from student health portal).
- Mail those 3 items to the address provided on the claim form.
Have Questions
If you have questions about or need help with this process, please contact a social worker at student health. For additional information about insurance or UC SHIP, contact the UC SHIP Insurance Office at SHSinsurance@sa.ucsb.edu or through your Student Health portal.
Hair Removal
There are no in-network providers for electrolysis or laser hair removal in the Santa Barbara area, but students with UC SHIP can still get the procedure covered.
How To
You will need to get a referral from a Student Health Clinician, find a local provider, pay for the procedure up front, and file a claim (refer to the section above). After submitting your claim, you will be reimbursed for 80% of the cost after you meet your $300 deductible. For help with this process, contact a Student Health Social Worker.
Local recommended hair removal providers
- Turner Medical Arts - Santa Barbara - 805-214-4217
- Evolutions Medical & Day Spa - Chapala St. - 805- 335-8546
- The G Spa & Laser Center - Santa Barbara - 805-682-4772
Fertility Preservation
Similar to hair removal, fertility preservation is not billed directly to insurance and requires going through the claims submission process. You will need a referral from a Student Health clinician. Our recommended local provider is the Southern California Reproductive Center. STI screenings are required.
Check out these educational resources if you are curious about fertility for transfeminine folks or transmasc folks!
Medical Tattooing
Medical tattooing and microneedling can be used to camouflage surgery scars, create realistic areolas, alter nipple appearance, fill in one's hairline, and other cosmetic adjustments that may help someone feel more comfortable in their body and/or gender. Medical tattooing services are available in Santa Barbara at The Sauler Institute. This service is not currently covered by UCSHIP. Those paying out-of-pocket may try filing an insurance claim for partial reimbursement with varying degrees of success (a letter from your PCP or surgeon is heavily recommended).