Abstract
OBJECTIVETo understand the experiences and perspectives of low-income University of California undergraduates related to their health insurance options, access to and quality of care.PARTICIPANTS14 undergraduate students across five UC campuses who identified as socioeconomically disadvantaged or low-income.METHODSWe conducted 4 focus groups organized by type of insurance coverage in April 2022.RESULTS(1) the insurance selection process for low-income students is complicated by multiple, sometimes competing factors; (2) the lack of clear information confuses students' selection of insurance and health care options; and (3) students experiences challenges in access and quality of care, irrespective of insurance type.CONCLUSIONSEnsuring access to high quality care, information and coverage is critical to the university mission to support a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment, for a student body that reflects the needs of the population of California.