BlueCross BlueShield
check_circle VerifiedBlueCross BlueShield is a renowned health insurance provider. With BlueCross BlueShield, customers can have access to great member resources. Customers can also purchase dental and vision coverage.
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BlueCross BlueShield is also a parent company of other health insurance companies that provide BlueCross BlueShield health insurance in specific regions and states. BlueCross BlueShield companies include Anthem, CareFirst, Regence, Wellmark, Highmark, Capital, Empire, Independence, Horizon, and Premera.
It oversees 36 different insurance companies, all of which are locally operated. As a nationwide company in the health insurance marketplace, BlueCross BlueShield has helped millions of people with health insurance plans since its founding in 1929.
The Good
- Types of Plans Offered
- Member Resources
- Unique Features
- Customer Service
- Availability and Acceptance
Types of Plans Offered
BlueCross BlueShield insurance plans are available nationwide and widely accepted at hospitals and doctor's offices.
Coverage options range in many types — from a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) to Health Maintenance Organization (HMO). These plan-types indicate the kind of provider network available with the health plan. PPO plans generally offer coverage for seeing out-of-network providers, though the coverage levels are not as high as for in-network providers. HMO plans only offer out-of-network coverage in emergency situations.
BlueCross BlueShield also offers plans with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRAs), and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). BlueCross BlueShield also offers indemnity, Point of Service (POS), and short-term health insurance plan.
BlueCross BlueShield also offers Medicare and Medicaid plans. Its Medicare plans include Medicare Supplement plans (Medigap), Part D (prescription drug plans), and Medicare Advantage plans. Medicare Advantage plans offer the coverage of Medicare Parts A and B in a single health plan. To qualify for Medicare, individuals generally must be at least 65 years old.
The coverage and details of each of these plans vary. The costs depend partially on your health situation (including age, number of group being insured, health status, etc.) and your location. When you initially search for a health plan to understand the benefits and costs of monthly payments, expect to put in your location and some personal information, as these points will help BlueCross BlueShield draw up a list of potential plans for you.
In addition to health care coverage options, the some BlueCross BlueShield Plan offerings include dental insurance plans and vision insurance. Dental plans and vision plans may also vary by location, so it's important to work with the subsidiary in your area to get specific information. Those looking for vision or dental coverage can find good policies through BlueCross BlueShield.
As you evaluate your health insurance options, keep your health needs and budget in mind. The amount you pay for a health plan is not limited to the monthly premiums. In addition to considering the cost of premiums, you should also consider how expensive the out-of-pocket expenses will be. Sometimes paying a higher premium will mean having cheaper out-of-pocket expenses (copays and coinsurance) or lower out-of-pocket maximums.
Member Resources
BlueCross BlueShield keeps up its positive reputation with members with both basic and advanced tools. Some of these tools are specific to each of its subsidiaries, and include customer service numbers and mobile apps.
Unique Features
BlueCross BlueShield's network of doctors and specialists is gigantic. BlueCross BlueShield insurance is accepted all over the United States. Because of the wide acceptance, it should be easy to find hospitals and doctors in-network. Treatment and other medical services you receive from these provides will be covered in part by this company.
Another unique feature of the Blue365 program. Through Blue365, members can receive discounts on all sorts of health-related products and services. Some discounts and deals change from time to time. Blue365 saves you money and provides added motivation for you to get and stay healthy. Not every BlueCross BlueShield subsidiary may participate in Blue365, so check with your subsidiary to see if it does.
Customer Service
The BlueCross BlueShield website is extremely detailed and full of resources for members and potential customers alike. For anyone who would benefit from it, it has general information about health care, health insurance, terminology, legal changes, and how all these factors affect people who need health insurance.
More specifically, though, through the website you can find answers to questions about actual health plans offered by BlueCross BlueShield. You can search for plans and get a quote, narrowing your search by location and the type of plan you're looking for.
BlueCross BlueShield answers frequently asked questions, have social media outlets to connect with clients more personally, and of course, provide mailing information for when you need to mail in a form or contact them via snail mail.
In short, BlueCross BlueShield takes lots of different steps to meet the needs of customers all over the US. It is available 24/7 to members and has set up its customer service tools to be convenient, immediate, and of course, helpful-even in the details.
Availability and Acceptance
BlueCross BlueShield is available in all 50 states, and is widely accepted by doctors and hospitals. Specific provider network access, however, does depend on the individual health plan.
The Bad
- State-Specific Coverage
State-Specific Coverage
For better or worse, the coverage you receive through your health plan depends partially on the state you live in (the state in which you would use that insurance). In other words, you can't just look up a PPO plan at BlueCross BlueShield and expect the same coverage percentages, out-of-pocket costs, and deductibles for any state. The BlueCross BlueShield website will direct you to the company that serves your area before you can get information on plan options.
The Bottom Line
In many ways, it's not surprising that there are inconsistencies in health insurance plan details at BlueCross BlueShield. After all, the health insurer is large and works though several subsidiaries. It provides coverage nationwide, and has an extensive history and reputation.
Its growth has brought both positive and negative consequences. For example, it's positive that BlueCross BlueShield is accepted at such a high percentages of hospitals, doctors, and urgent care centers because it is a well-known brand in the health insurance marketplace. But on the other hand, the office you work with locally could be one of those with a poor reputation since BlueCross BlueShield doesn't micromanage each subsidiary.
It's important to make sure any health plan you choose offers the medical coverage you need and is affordable. The best health insurance plan for someone else may not necessarily be the best fit for your situation. Be sure to understand your health needs and what would fit into your budget. Choosing a reliable health insurer is also important. Reading health insurance reviews from customers can give you a sense of the general quality BlueCross BlueShield offers.
Long story short, BlueCross BlueShield is still a recommended health insurance option. There are some regional differences with BlueCross BlueShield companies, so interested people should work with the insurer directly to learn more about coverage, benefits, premium rates, deductible, and out-of-pocket limit available with each health plan.
Call our recommended rep over at BlueCross BlueShield below.
1-(844) 479-1697
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User Reviews
Star Rating
364 Reviews
Review Breakdown
Sentiment Criteria
April Jones
The customer service has been amazing! And I like the small copays for Dr visits!
Leslie Miller
Went to the doctor yesterday to get treatment for something. My doctor wrote me a prescription and I dropped it off at the pharmacy. Later I get a message from the pharmacy that my insurance doesn't cover that brand and has a preferred brand. Now the doctor is out and I can't get the brand changed. It's already been over 24 hours since I sought treatment and got the prescription I need. Now that the doctor is out, I can pay out of pocket for my prescription when I already pay these jerks 700 a month or my treatment will be delayed for days or weeks until I need surgery to fix something that could have been stopped in a couple days all because Blue Cross has a preferred brand. This company sucks, always has.
Carol Kalvik
I've had this health insurance since I became a federal employee in 1984. I've had no issues, problems of any kind, or payment disputes with this company.
Rathan Kumar
I had blue cross blue shield for 3 years when I was with my old job. They had a lot of providers in my area that worked great.
Brayden Ibert
My family has had BCBS for many years through my mom's work. We like the website features and that the insurance is widely accepted. Their response to an out of town emergency surgery was outstanding!
Valencia P.
They are horrible! The coverage isn't enough and the deductibles are ridiculous.
Nancy A DeNault
Love this company. They call and give you a welcome. Easy to work with. If you have a question just call them. They are always ready to help you.
Dominique Caballero
I enjoy the services, but wish they had a better handling for expenses for mental health coverage
Seth Boudoin
Great deals and prices for you to be insured for all of your medical needs. Feel safe and insured.
AJ & Maria Ferguson
We have had BlueCross Blue Shield for many years. They have always been great in paying claims quickly. Their customer service has always been quick to respond and find the answers to my questions or help empower me with knowledge that I have needed when there has been a discrepancy with a provider.
Emily
I had their coverage under Medicaid and I was paying so much for my monthly premiums and had to pay so much out of pocket and had very limited provider options. The insurance I have now is much better and I pay less.
Donald Morgan
They seem pretty available for assistance and any type of aid but they could have nicer people.
Eny Donnelly
My favorite health insurance, customer service is very good, they answer your question immediately
Kimsreview
Big network but not the best customer service. There are long hold times and it can be frustrating at times.
russbayles
Have Blue Cross and I love having them as an insurance it can be difficult to keep track of actual bills and just statements.
hmarashi
My family is covered under blue cross blue shield, often my medical costs are accounted for.
Erin Glendening
Through Blue Cross Blue Shield I have been able to get all of my needed medicines covered, as well as doctors visits.
Teagan hickman
We have always had reliable insurance with bcbs they process their claims quickly
Kimi Bayles
BlueCross BlueShield has the number one best customer service! The call time wait to be helped was minimal, my questions were taken seriously and I felt I was treated as a valuable customer.
Aidan Keogh
BlueCross BlueShield has been great insurance company. They were quick to pay and to explain the benefits. The network and coverage has worked well for our family.
Mark Wells
Ever since signing up with Blue Cross Blue Shield my medical bills have basically been covered. Coming from a low income household every penny helps and they've helped me save so much money. Anytime I need to call in someone is always very helpful.
take7
We didn't last long with blue cross blue shield. It was hard because the doctors and hospitals close to us we had always used didn't take them. I had to find new pediatrician. When I called customer service a couple times because I was trying to find details on coverage and places to go they kept referring me to my policy. Isn't that what they're there for? to help with that?
JDWain
I have BlueCross BlueShield of Florida and I have never had any problems with my insurance not being accepted somewhere. I have had to call their customer service a few times to get some things sorted out but they always resolved the issue for me.
Dwhoush
Any questions I have about my insurance are always answers very quickly. Everyone on the phone is nice and all the literature Blue cross gives out is helpful. The biggest concern I have with BCBS is a lot of the providers in my area don’t take it.
Martha Gourley
I took care of my elderly mother for years. Blue Cross Blue Shield was the only insurance she would let me purchase for her. Served her well.
Bryndie
Really good plans for a lot of people. Accepted at a wide range of places, and very easy to work with.
Malia Barnes
I love this company!! They cover many different Dr offices on our area and have a great program called, “Blue point preferred provider” where your co-pay is half the normal cost if you go to the The point provider Dr. The website is very interactive and user-friendly. It has a fitness program on it where you can earn up to $25 a year in Amazon gift cards by doing their health programs. I have called in to talk to customer service on multiple occasions and have always gotten to a life person without a long wait time. Customer service has always been very helpful and answered all my questions
Lorna Johnston
We were insured by Blue Cross Blue Shield through my husband’s employment for nearly many years. My husband was hit by a truck while riding his bicycle and was severely injured. Everything was covered as per the policy. The only thing that was annoying was that every submission for the same accident which included many providers was first denied as out of network. I had to call for each one to explain that he had been taken by ambulance to the hospital that was designated and hospitals are rotated which is covered. They didn’t flag the file that this was the case which seemed like it should have been automatic.
Julie Taylor
The coverage we had with BlueCross BlueShield was great. The only difficulty we have had is that they are somewhat slow to pay benefits. We received some bills that were a couple of years old. Super hard if you are on a tight budget.
Greg
Our family was insured by BlueCross Blue Shield for many years through my employment before I retired. They had very good coverage and we got what we expected from our coverage. The only negative was when we had to call about each claim that was denied as out of network when they were actually covered because the ambulance is on a rotation to emergency rooms and the charges are covered in spite of the ER being technically out of network. I wish they could have tagged the file so we didn't have to call on every claim but they paid and took care of it.
Valentino Chanel
I received the coverage I needed while I was on bcbs. I never really had an issue.
Eddie Rios
BlueCross BlueShield has been a blessing for our family. They are a solid health insurance provider with a high regard for service. They have always been good to deal with for claims, service, or information. They are highly recommended as a top tier health insurance provider.
Angelina Hamilton
Overall they have been a good provider. Some of the things I think they could do a better job. My child had to have an x-ray done and the doctor didn’t have the equipment in their office so we had to go to the hospital and do an outpatient one. And of course they didn’t cover it because of it.
Makayla Manus
Good insurance company. Never fails to pay for my medical needs. The employees are very helpful.
Tiffany I
Been with Blue Cross with my employer for over 10 yrs. Never had an issue with coverage. My children’s deliveries along with minor surgeries were covered with no issues.
Shannon Panameno
There is so much red tape involved in accessing my benefits, it's easier to pay cash out of pocket than deal with these crooks. They won't send a bill, statement of benefits or ID card until they receive the first payment. So basically you'll pay for the first month, but still not have access to your benefits. Here is the phone call I had w a BS/BC rep just now. "Me: Hi, I haven't received a bill or an ID card or description of my benefits and my insurance is being denied by doctors I need to see." BS: "Well we can't send you a bill until we receive your first payment." Stupid me, I send them $540 a month and still can not use my medical insurance...what exactly am I paying for???? Grrrr
Lindsay
I called bcbs recently to inquire about how much they would pay for a procedure. The man was patient but not very helpful in that I couldn’t get the answer I needed. I usually have had a good experience with them , however, it was just that one time.
Seth
It seems to be really good, I don’t pay for it but it saves us a ton of money and is relatively inexpensive!
Stephen Love
I have a medigap policy with Blue Cross. They are very good at paying claims and I have a lot of them. Sometimes they ar a little difficult to get a hold of but I rarely have to contact them which is a good thing!
jean margaret arnold
Readily accepted by variety of physicians in my area; premiums have increased to the point that my former employed recimmends Aetna as well as Blue Cross Blue shield
marc wiener
terrible csutomer servive and never can find a in network provider
Matt K
Need to improve on their test approvals timetable and not immediately reject a request.
Jeff
bad claim processing, people do not know their jobs, and are rude!
Friend
I have had several problems with them and cover my appointments.
Amal Sweis
Excellent experience. Everything I needed I just visited their office in Little Rock and talk to our agent who was great and helped in any inquiry
Alisha Stokes
RUN do not purchase BCBS . Use to be one of the best and is now one of the worst. They hire "vendors " 3rd party companies to micromanage how you can use your benefits. It should be illegal what their are doing especially joining with ASH network which is a joke.
Janine Murphy
I have had this coverage for the last 6 years and have had all services covered and help in securing assistance.
Margaret Pearson
They help to cover my expensive macular degeneration eye shots
M Schwartz
I was told that because im HMO, if i go on vacation they wont pay any medical unless life threatening. My son had blood in urine which scared him while on vacation and his claim was denied at urgent care because it wasnt life threatening
Madison Kneiss
BEEN A CUSTOMER FOR YEARS GREAT COVERAGE LOW CO PAY INDIVIDUAL CUSTOMER SERVICE HAPPY WITH IT