Administered by Anthem Blue Cross (medical) and Navitus (pharmacy)

UC High Option is a Medicare supplement plan, covering costs Medicare does not cover.

Coverage for COVID-19 tests

Through Dec. 31, 2023, UC Medicare High Option will continue to waive the cost-share for PCR testing if ordered by a physician. Members are no longer eligible for free at-home over-the-counter antigen tests.   

How the plan works

  • You must use Medicare providers; providers who accept Medicare assignment cost less.
  • For services covered by Medicare, Medicare benefits are primary and then the benefits of this plan are calculated to coordinate up to the Medicare allowed amount.
  • You pay the deductible ($50 per member) for the non-Medicare-covered services that the plan covers.
  • Behavioral health benefits are provided by Medicare and Anthem Blue Cross. Members are covered for outpatient services not covered by Medicare from all in- and out-of-network licensed behavioral health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, MFTs and MFCCs. Please check with your provider to be sure they are available under this plan.
  • Before you travel, call the Anthem Health Guide to learn about your benefits outside of the United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, provided through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core® Program. If you need assistance while you’re out of the country, the Global Core service center is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (800) 810-BLUE (2583), or you can call them collect at (804) 673-1177. Keep your ID card handy (in your wallet or on your phone) when you travel to help you get the care you need.

Best fit for you if:

  • You are willing to pay higher premiums for nearly 100% coverage
  • You want direct access to Medicare providers without the need for referrals

Plan costs

2023 retiree plan costs chart»

Moving outside California?

UC offers a Medicare Coordinator Program (administered by Via Benefits) to retirees and to families whose members are all eligible for or enrolled in Medicare and live in a state outside California.