Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has agreed to sell its wholly owned subsidiary, AF Group, to Enstar Group in a transaction backed by investment firm Sixth Street. The move marks a major shift for both organizations and signals a new chapter for one of the nation’s most established workers’ compensation insurers. [Read more…]
Blue Shield Promise Puts $80K Behind San Diego’s Future Medical Assistants
Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan just dropped $80,000 to fund medical assistant training scholarships in San Diego County. The investment targets students joining the Laura Rodriguez Medical Assistant Institute (LRMAI), a program run by Family Health Centers of San Diego (FHCSD).
Independence Blue Cross and CHOP Lock In Multi-Year Deal to Expand Pediatric Care Access
Independence Blue Cross (IBX) and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) have signed a new agreement that goes into effect July 1, 2025. This multi-year deal guarantees continued access to CHOP’s pediatric services for families covered under IBX health plans and sets the stage for deeper coordination between the two organizations. [Read more…]
Wellmark Joins Forces with Evio Pharmacy to Make Medications More Affordable
Evio Pharmacy Solutions just landed a big-name partner in its push to fix the high cost of prescription drugs. Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield is now an investor, becoming the sixth health plan to buy into Evio’s mission of making medication access smoother and more affordable. [Read more…]
Blue Shield of California Provides Crucial Support to Wildfire Victims
As Southern California battles the devastating wildfires raging through Los Angeles County, Blue Shield of California is taking swift action to support its members. With fires named Palisades, Hurst, Eaton, and Sunset forcing evacuations, the health provider is ensuring that those affected have immediate access to essential healthcare services. [Read more…]
A Milestone in Mental Health Care: The Meadows Partners with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona
In a major win for mental health care accessibility, The Meadows Behavioral Healthcare has announced that starting January 1, 2025, all its inpatient treatment centers in Arizona will be in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ). This partnership, which includes a groundbreaking value-based agreement, promises to ease financial hurdles for those seeking critical treatment for mental health and addiction issues. [Read more…]
Medavie Blue Cross Takes Top Honors at Insurance Business Canada Awards
In a standout moment at last night’s Insurance Business Canada Awards (IBCAs), Medavie Blue Cross claimed the title of Life and Health Insurer of the Year. The award ceremony, hosted in Toronto, spotlighted top performers in the insurance industry and marked a major milestone for Medavie. [Read more…]
Premera Blue Cross Pulls the Plug on Medicare Advantage in 2025 – What You Need to Know
Premera Blue Cross has announced it will no longer offer Medicare Advantage plans beginning January 1, 2025. The decision marks a major change for the health plan provider, impacting thousands of members across Washington. The company says rising financial pressures and market shifts played a key role in the move. [Read more…]
Blue Shield of California Adds New Perks for Medicare Members – Here’s What You Need to Know
With the 2025 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) just around the corner, seniors across California can expect some exciting new options from Blue Shield of California. Starting October 15 through December 7, Medicare beneficiaries can choose from an array of plans loaded with fresh benefits designed to make healthcare easier, cheaper, and more personalized.
Amazon Pharmacy at Your Doorstep
One of the biggest changes for 2025 is Blue Shield’s partnership with Amazon Pharmacy. From January 1, members will have the option to get their medications delivered straight to their doorstep at no extra cost. The best part? You can talk to a pharmacist 24/7 if you have any questions, making those late-night health worries a little less stressful.
Your Health History in One Place
This year, Blue Shield launched the Member Health Record, giving you digital access to all your health info. Whether it’s lab results or upcoming appointments, everything is stored in one convenient spot on the Blue Shield app or website. No more hunting through piles of paperwork!
Live Like the Healthiest People on Earth
Another exciting perk is the Blue Zones Challenge™ app, available for free through Blue Shield’s Wellvolution program. Inspired by regions of the world where people live the longest and healthiest lives, this app gives members tips and activities to help them adopt healthier habits.
Medicare Plans That Cover All the Bases
Blue Shield isn’t stopping there. Their 2025 Medicare Advantage Plans are packed with benefits that go beyond basic coverage. Many plans offer little to no copays for doctor visits and hospital care. Plus, with SilverSneakers®, seniors get free access to thousands of gyms across California and a treasure trove of virtual fitness classes.
And for those in Los Angeles and San Diego Counties, the Blue Shield TotalDual Plan is loaded with extras like $0 prescription drugs, a $50 monthly grocery allowance, and even transportation assistance for doctor visits or trips to the store.
Need a Hearing Aid? No Problem!
Hearing loss is a big issue for many seniors, and Blue Shield’s got that covered too. Members can get up to $1,500 per year for hearing aids, plus fittings and evaluations. This plan also offers a monthly $70 allowance for over-the-counter items like vitamins and cold medicine, helping members stay healthy without breaking the bank.
Concierge Service to Make Life Easier
To top it all off, Blue Shield’s concierge service is a game-changer. Members can get help scheduling doctor appointments, accessing test results, or arranging transportation with just one phone call. It’s like having a personal healthcare assistant at your fingertips.
What About Medicare Supplement Plans?
If you’re sticking with Original Medicare but want some extra coverage, Blue Shield’s Medicare Supplement Plan lets you see any doctor that accepts Medicare. Some plans even include perks like vision, hearing aids, and acupuncture services.
With so many new benefits on the table, now’s the time to see how Blue Shield’s Medicare plans can work for you. To explore the options and find the plan that fits your needs, visit Blue Shield of California’s website.
3,000 Blue Cross Employees Roll Up Their Sleeves for Annual Service Day—Here’s Why It’s a Big Deal
Thousands of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (Blue Cross) employees are stepping away from their desks today to give back to local communities. In its 14th year, the company’s Annual Service Day is once again bringing out the best in Blue Cross employees, with approximately 3,000 workers volunteering at 80 different projects across Massachusetts. [Read more…]
Faster Mental Health Care Just Got Easier with Independence Blue Cross’s New Expansions
Independence Blue Cross (IBX) just made getting mental health support a whole lot simpler. As part of a recent expansion, members now have access to more behavioral health services than ever before. Whether it’s help with anxiety, depression, substance use, or something more specific, like eating disorders or OCD, IBX has you covered. They’ve even boosted their provider network by nearly 50%—meaning there’s a good chance the right clinician is closer than you think. And if you’ve been struggling to get an appointment in the past, that’s about to change too. [Read more…]
Ride with Pride! Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Unveils 100 Rainbow Bluebikes for Pride Month Celebration
In an inspiring gesture to honor Pride Month, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (“Blue Cross”) has introduced 100 rainbow-themed Bluebikes to Greater Boston’s bikeshare system. This colorful initiative is aimed at promoting LGBTQIA+ equality and will see the “Proud Bikes” in action throughout June. These vibrant bikes will be on display in the Boston Pride Parade on Saturday, June 8, adding a splash of color and a message of inclusivity to the event. [Read more…]
BCBSTX Teams Up with Texas Pediatric Society to Revolutionize Maternal and Infant Health
In a game-changing partnership aimed at revolutionizing maternal and infant health in the Lone Star State, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) has joined forces with the Texas Pediatric Society (TPS). Through BCBSTX’s innovative Special Beginnings initiative, they’re set to empower primary care providers and pediatricians across Texas with specialized training and invaluable resources. [Read more…]
Philadelphia Takes Bold Steps to Tackle Racial Disparities in Maternal Health Care
In a groundbreaking move to address racial disparities in maternal health, leaders from Independence Blue Cross (IBX) took center stage before the Philadelphia City Council today. The focus? Tackling the alarming rates of severe maternal morbidity (SMM) disproportionately affecting Black and brown communities. [Read more…]
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Vermont Join Forces for Healthier Communities
In a significant move, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont have gained formal approval from the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation to solidify their affiliation, marking a groundbreaking collaboration between nonprofit Blue companies. [Read more…]
Blue Shield of California Equips Seniors for 2024 Health Coverage
As the 2024 Medicare Annual Election Period commences, Blue Shield of California is geared up to cater to the varied healthcare needs of seniors through a comprehensive range of products and services. These offerings provide members with choices between traditional in-person care and cutting-edge technology-based virtual and digital options.
In a statement, Jim McMahon, interim vice president, and general manager, expressed the organization’s commitment to placing their Medicare-eligible members at the core of their operations. He stated, “Excellence in health care offerings has been at the forefront of our mission as a nonprofit health plan serving Californians for more than 80 years.” [Read more…]
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota provides grant funding to first-time homeowners in partnership with Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota has announced that it had access to $160,000 of Affordable Housing Program (AHP), funds, through its membership in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines. Blue Cross and Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity have entered into an agreement to allow the charitable non profit to serve as the underwriter and administrator for grants that will be available to qualified first-time Minnesota homebuyers. A grant up to $5,000 can be awarded for down payment assistance and closing costs. [Read more…]
Philadelphia health organizations create a Regional Coalition to Eliminate Racism-Based Medicine
The Regional Coalition to Eliminate Race Based Medicine (Regional Coalition), launched today. The Regional Coalition will work with its members to remove “adjustments for race” from 15 clinical decision-support tools commonly used that could negatively impact patient outcomes. [Read more…]
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, City of Willmar and National Fitness Campaign Make Fitness Free for Everyone in Willmar
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, City of Willmar and National Fitness Campaign announced today an agreement for an outdoor Fitness Court (r) Studio in Sperry Park. The Fitness Court Studio at Homewood Avenue NE will be opened on Wednesday, 19th July at 10 a.m., with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Fitness Court Studio in Willmar will be the very first of its kind to open in Minnesota. [Read more…]
L.A. Care and Blue Shield To Give Away Nearly 17,000 Backpacks with School Supplies
L.A. Care Health Plan and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan are distributing 16,500 free backpacks filled with school supplies at 11 of their jointly operated Community Resource Centers located throughout Los Angeles County this summer. The giveaways are part of their annual back-to-school events, taking place from July 14 through August 4. [Read more…]
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Expedites Access to Care for Illinois Members Affected by Severe Weather
In response to severe weather in Illinois, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (Blue Cross) is expediting access to care for members who may be affected. [Read more…]
Independence Blue Cross and Sun Life announce new Stop Loss insurance collaboration
Independence Blue Cross (Independence) and Sun Life U.S. recently announced a new collaboration to exclusively provide Stop Loss insurance for Independence’s self-funded group customers. Stop Loss insurance can protect self-funded employers who take on the financial risk of providing health insurance for their employees against large, unpredictable, or catastrophic losses from higher-than-anticipated claims. [Read more…]
Miaja Cassidy Named as Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota (Blue Cross) today announced that Miaja Cassidy has joined the organization’s senior leadership team as chief legal officer. In her role, Cassidy oversees the management of all Blue Cross legal services as well as compliance, audit, and public affairs. The position reports directly to Dana Erickson, company president and CEO. [Read more…]
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Promotes Bukata Hayes to Chief Equity Officer
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota has promoted Bukata Hayes to the position of vice-president, chief equity officer. Hayes, who has been vice president for racial equity and health equity since March 20,21, will assume this new role. She will be responsible to integrate all diversity, equity and inclusion (DEIB), strategies into the Racial & Health Equity department. [Read more…]
Blue Cross Blue Shield Of Massachusetts Signs Value-Based Payment Contracts
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (“Blue Cross”) has announced a significant milestone in its commitment towards ensuring equitable, high-quality and affordable care. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts is the first non-profit health plan to establish a financial payment model that rewards health systems and doctors for eliminating racial or ethnic inequalities in care. This will help improve health care for the 2.9 million Blue Cross members. [Read more…]
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts to Expand its High-Quality Primary Care Offering in the Commonwealth
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (Blue Cross), today announced a partnership with VillageMD. This is a rapidly growing national provider of primary care services based on value through its subsidiary, Village Medical. VillageMD will now be able to offer more innovative primary care services in Massachusetts through this partnership. [Read more…]
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts: Innovative, Affordable New Products for 2022
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts is launching a series of new offerings that offer high-quality, affordable healthcare with an enhanced member experience. [Read more…]
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Offers Plans During Open Enrollment
As part of its ongoing commitment to providing quality and cost-effective healthcare to Texans, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX), will offer multiple health plans options. [Read more…]
Andreana Santangelo Named A Boston Business Journal 2021 CFO Of The Year
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Chief Financial Officer Andreana Sangelo was named CFO of The Year by the Boston Business Journal. This year’s recipient of the award is chief financial officers who have helped steer. Their communities, companies and organizations through the coronavirus Pandemic and financial crisis that follows. [Read more…]
Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement Notice 2021
Health Plan News has received a copy of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement Notice via email, for 2021. The following is being sent by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Settlement Administrator to those who are eligible for compensation based on the Blue Cross Blue Shield settlement. [Read more…]