Medicare and UC San Diego Health

UC San Diego Health is the region's academic medical center, known for specialty and advanced care many San Diego residents rely on. As you approach 65 or review your coverage, the key question is: "Will my Medicare keep me in-network at UCSD?"

UCSD has tightened which plans it accepts, so it's worth understanding where things stand.

Original Medicare and Medigap

UC San Diego Health accepts Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans. Because Medigap doesn't use networks, it gives you the broadest, most stable access to UCSD doctors and facilities that accept Medicare — including specialists, typically without a referral. If keeping UCSD access matters to you, this is the structure to understand first.

Medicare Advantage

UCSD accepts only a limited set of Medicare Advantage plans, and that set has been narrowing. For 2026, its in-network Advantage access is significantly reduced — some plans that worked in the past no longer provide the same access, and certain plans reach only specialty services rather than primary care. Whether a specific Advantage plan gets you into UCSD, and for which services, depends entirely on that plan and can change each year. This is a system where verifying before you enroll is essential.

How to confirm your UCSD access

Before choosing or changing a plan, check three things: whether UCSD accepts the plan at all, whether it covers the UCSD doctors you see, and whether it includes primary care or only specialty access. You can verify this through UCSD and the plan directly — or I can do it for you. As a licensed independent broker, I'll review your doctors against your options so there are no surprises after you enroll.

There's no cost to you for this. Independent brokers are compensated by the insurance carriers, so my help is free — at your kitchen table, over the phone, or by video.

Serving San Diego County, on your schedule

I'm a mobile, come-to-you Medicare broker serving the South Bay, Chula Vista, National City, El Cajon, and North County. If you want to keep your UC San Diego Health access, reach out anytime.

Medicare with Ashley — (619) 947-2325

Frequently asked questions

Does UC San Diego Health accept Medicare?

UCSD accepts Original Medicare and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, plus a limited set of Medicare Advantage plans.

Does UCSD accept Medicare Advantage plans?

Only a narrower set, and it has been changing. For 2026, UCSD's in-network Advantage access is significantly reduced, so confirm your specific plan before enrolling.

What's the most reliable way to keep UCSD on Medicare?

For most people, Original Medicare with a Medigap plan provides the broadest, most stable UCSD access.

Is there a cost to have you review my options?

No. Independent brokers are paid by the carriers, so there's no charge to you.