Say hello to your health benefits

UnitedHealthcare and Northwestern University offer access to quality care at a competitive cost. Let’s take a look at some important things to know as you get ready to choose your plan.

Introducing your health benefits

Effective January 1, 2026, UnitedHealthcare will replace Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois as the administrator for all four medical plans. Northwestern remains committed to providing comprehensive and competitive medical coverage. Beginning January 1, 2026, faculty and staff will have access to four medical plans administered by UnitedHealthcare:

  • PPO
  • HSA Plus
  • HSA Essential
  • HMO

Help expand provider access

If your behavioral health or other providers are not in the UnitedHealthcare Choice Plus network used for the PPO, HSA Essential, or HSA Plus plans, you may nominate them. This helps ensure continued access to high-quality care in the Chicago area. Check to see if your provider is in UHC's Choice Plus network.

Know your open enrollment dates

Let’s keep your knowing growing

Explore more benefits

See all the resources and services that are available to help you on your health journey.

Switch with confidence

New to UnitedHealthcare? There are steps you can take to help prepare for a smooth transition.

Understand pharmacy benefits

Learn more about how pharmacy benefits work and the ways they can help you save on costs.