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UC SHIP Special Programs


You will need a Student Health Services (SHS) referral in order for services to be covered.

Our gender-affirming benefits follow the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) guidelines. Your plan includes:

  • Gender-affirming top and/or bottom surgery for both female-to-male (FTM) and male-to-female (MTF) individuals¹
  • Gender-affirming facial surgery, including:
    • Male-to-female: Brow lift, forehead contouring, jaw/chin reshaping, lip shortening, malar (cheek) implants, rhinoplasty, scalp (hairline) advancement, augmentation thyroid chondroplasty
    • Female-to-male: Chin implant/genioplasty, jaw implant, thyroid chondroplasty
  • Electrolysis and laser hair removal
  • Fertility preservation²
  • Tracheal shave
  • Vocal training³

¹ Gender-affirming surgeries must be performed by a provider in your plan’s network to be covered.
² Fertility preservation covers only preservation services, not infertility testing or treatment.
³ Vocal training must be provided by a licensed speech therapist.

Using Your Benefits

  • Preapproval is required before receiving any gender-affirming services⁴.
  • You may be responsible for copays, coinsurance, or deductibles based on your plan.
  • Out-of-network care may result in higher out-of-pocket costs.
  • For the latest cost details, check your Plan Documents or log in at anthem.com/ca.
  • Questions? Call Member Services at (866) 940-8306.

⁴ Preapproval confirms medical necessity based on a diagnosis of gender dysphoria.


Travel Benefits for Surgery

If you need to travel for gender-affirming surgery, your plan may cover travel expenses for up to six trips, including:

  • Transportation to the surgery facility — up to $250 for round-trip coach airfare, train, or public transport
  • Lodging — up to $100 per day for up to 21 days per trip (one room, double occupancy)
  • Other reasonable expenses — up to $25 per day for up to 21 days per trip (excluding tobacco, alcohol, drugs, and meals)

To request travel reimbursement, submit a completed form with itemized receipts. Call Member Services for more details.


We’re Here for You

Find doctors and hospitals in your plan’s network using the Find Care feature on the SydneySM Health app or at anthem.com/ca, or call the Member Services number on your ID card.

If you want additional support, our Care Management program is included at no extra cost. When you enroll, you’ll be paired with a nurse care manager specially trained to support the transgender community.

Your nurse care manager can help you:

  • Understand your treatment options
  • Coordinate care between your doctors, surgeons, counselors, and specialists
  • Review your health plan to help save money and maximize your benefits
  • Connect you to local and online resources
Last modified: Sep 25, 2025