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What are you looking for?

CORE PPO

Administered by Anthem Blue Cross (medical) and Navitus (pharmacy); supported by Accolade Health Care Advocate

CORE is being replaced by HealthSavings+ in 2026. If you’re a CORE or UC Health Savings Plan member and do not choose another plan for 2026 during Open Enrollment, you and your currently enrolled family members will automatically be enrolled in HealthSavings+ if you’re eligible.

To confirm your provider’s participation, use the Blue Shield provider search tool or call Accolade at (866) 406-1182.

CORE is a high-deductible PPO plan that offers access to the Anthem Preferred network of providers, which includes UC’s world-class hospitals and physicians, and has coverage for non-network providers.

The information below is a summary. See plan documents for details.

To ensure medical costs are shared fairly, the CORE PPO plan now requires premium contributions for employees and retirees.

CORE can be paired with a Health Flexible Spending Account (Health FSA); it is not compatible with the Health Savings Account.

See updated information about coverage for COVID tests.

  • Full Full eligibility available
  • Mid Mid eligibility available
  • Core Core eligibility available
  • Retirees Retirees eligibility available

How the plan works:

Accolade helps you navigate your medical plan and is your first stop for questions about your benefits. You can reach Accolade at (866) 406-1182 (Monday–Friday, 5 a.m.–8 p.m. PT). Find all your plan details on the UC Faculty and Staff PPO plans website.

Best fit for you if:

  • You want a lower monthly premium
  • You want direct access to all providers without need for referrals
  • You are willing to risk incurring high out-of-pocket costs
  • You want coverage when you are traveling or living abroad
  • You and/or your family members live outside California

Understanding your costs

CORE is being replaced by HealthSavings+ in 2026. Compare your options to find the right plan for you and your family.

Monthly premium costs for retirees in 2025

When you’re ready to enroll in Medicare

UC Medicare PPO is considered the “partner plan” of CORE. That means that if you are a retiree enrolled in CORE, you’ll be transferred into UC Medicare PPO when you turn 65, once Medicare has approved your enrollment form.