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Discover Why the Blue Cross Blue Shield Healthcare Marketplace is the Solution for Your Health Insurance Needs

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Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) has a rich history of offering worry-free health care since 1929. With nationwide coverage that extends to all 50 states, you can have peace of mind wherever life takes you. Have confidence knowing you’re backed by a network of over 1.7 million doctors and hospitals. This ensures quality care that is both accessible and inexpensive.

Who is Blue Cross Blue Shield?

If you spent any amount of time searching for affordable health insurance, you’ve come across Blue Cross Blue Shield. 

BCBS is an insurance provider that is managed by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA). The BCBSA is a network of 36 independent, community-operated companies. They provide health insurance to over 100+ million Americans.

Locally, they are known as Blue Cross Blue Shield and they offer a variety of plans. These plans include HMOs, PPOs, and EPOs. The type of plan you pick will determine out-of-pocket costs, the network of providers, and other benefits. 

Two of the biggest benefits that customers love are:

In summary, you can feel reassured that with over 100 million Americans being covered, you’re in good hands.

But, in order to take advantage of the benefits we must also understand…

What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?

The Health Insurance Marketplace (also known as, the “Marketplace” or the “Exchange”) is a platform where you can compare & enroll in plans from different insurance companies. The federal government operates the Marketplace through HealthCare.gov, while most states have their own Marketplaces. These exchanges offer convenient services for health plan shopping & enrollment through websites, call centers, and in-person assistance.

Applying for individual and family coverage through the Marketplace is simple. You’ll provide income and household information. This is to see if you qualify for:
It is important to note that not all plans are created equal. Some plans may offer more comprehensive coverage than others, while others may have lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs. Be sure to read the plan details carefully and consider your own healthcare needs when choosing a plan.
 
If you need assistance or have questions, call us. Our licensed agents can help explain the purchasing health insurance process. Their guidance can help you find a plan that fits your needs.

Essential Health Benefits

All healthcare plans offered ion the Marketplace must cover 10 essential health benefits. These benefits include:

Understanding these concepts can help you make an informed decision when choosing an insurance plan. It’s important to carefully review your options and choose a plan that fits your needs and budget. Insurance isn’t getting cheaper.
 
Saving money while shopping on the health insurance marketplace is a huge priority. 
 
Many customers can save on their plans by learning about…

Eligibility and Income-based Subsidies Through the BCBS Marketplace

To be eligible for financial assistance you must meet certain requirements. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) sets income limits for subsidies. If your income is within these limits, you may be eligible for help with paying your monthly health insurance bill.

Requirements for Eligibility:

Federal Poverty Level Chart (FPL)

Family Size 2022 Income Numbers 2023 Income Numbers
Individuals
$13,590
$14,580
A family of 2
$18,310
$19,720
A family of 3
$23,030
$24,860
A family of 4
$27,750
$30,000
A family of 5
$32,470
$35,140
A family of 6
$37,190
$40,280
A family of 7
$41,910
$45,420
A family of 8
$46,630
$50,560
A family of 9+
Add $4,720 for each extra person
Add $5,140 for each extra person

Year 2022 numbers are used to calculate savings on insurance plans for 2023.

 

How Federal Poverty Levels Help Decide Who Qualifies for Discounted Health Coverage

Keeping up with the where you fall on the federal poverty level is important. Getting care that covers what you need while not breaking the bank is top priority.

A good supplement to saving money is the additional…

Blue Cross and Blue Shield: Member Services
and Benefits

Interactive Search

Use your local Blue Cross Blue Shield website to:

Member ID Card

Your ID card is an important tool that allows you access to great benefits and services. The identification number can help you find a doctor or hospital in your network. 

Member Discounts

Being a member is like having exclusive admission to discounts on health & wellness products and services. You’ll find discounts for:

In addition to the member benefits, don’t forget to see what they offer as…

Healthcare Coverage

We know Blue Cross Blue Shield’s extensive network of hospitals and doctors has you covered. But what is included with their plans?

Blue Cross Blue Shield has a range of patient care options. This includes coverage for mental health and substance abuse treatment, as well as preventative care services like annual check-ups and screenings. They also offer coverage for prescription medications, so you can get the medications you need at an affordable price.

For coverage options, they offer individual and family plans. Within those plans you can choose different levels of coverage, including bronze, silver, gold, and platinum plans. Each level offers different levels of coverage and out-of-pocket costs, so you can choose the what best fits your needs and budget.

Not to mention, dental and vision insurance. This will help you save money on:

Depending on the chosen plan, you may be eligible for orthodontic coverage. Saving on this will help offset the cost of braces and other orthodontic treatments.

Whether you need coverage for routine check-ups or more serious medical conditions, they have something that can meet your needs.

Helpful Tips for the Blue Cross Blue Shield Marketplace

Here are a few tips that can help make the process easier for you:

Answering Your
Blue Cross Blue Shield Coverage Questions

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Pre-existing Conditions?

Yes, pre-existing conditions are covered. Blue Cross Blue Shield or any other health insurance provider can’t deny you coverage under the Affordable Care Act.

Can Blue Cross Blue Shield Be Used Internationally?

Yes, you can use Blue Cross Blue Shield internationally.
 
Most plans within the United States receive coverage under the BlueCard program. For international travel, GeoBlue plans provide benefits and access to emergency services.
 
Planning a trip? Verify your international benefits with your Blue Plan or buy a GeoBlue plan.
 
Quick Tips:
  • Always carry your current BCBS ID card.
  • Contact the appropriate hotline if you need to locate a doctor or hospital while abroad.

What Happens if My Income Decreases While on Obamacare?

If your income goes down or you gain a household member, its important to update your insurance application immediately. You may qualify for more savings or free or lowcost coverage through Medicaid or CHIP.

 

Reporting changes late may result in having to pay money back when you file your federal tax return.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Virtual Visits?

Yes, virtual doctor visits are covered.
 
Blue Cross Online VisitsSM is a 24/7 virtual health care service.
This service is for minor illnesses and symptoms. You can check to see if your health plan covers this by logging in to your member account.
 
Examples of what you can use this service for:
  • Respiratory and sinus infections
  • Colds
  • Flu
  • Seasonal allergies
  • Eye irritation or redness
  • Strains or sprains
 
You may even receive a prescription if needed.
 
It’s convenient, affordable, quick, and easy to use.

What Happens if I Don't Use All of My Premium Tax Credit?

You don’t have to use all your premium tax credits to lower your monthly premium.
 
  • If you use more advance payments than you qualify for you must repay the difference. This is based on your final yearly income when you file your federal income tax return.
 
  • If you use less of your premium tax credits you will get the difference as a refundable credit.
 
*Note: You can only get a premium tax credit through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

When is the Enrollment Period for Blue Cross Blue Shield?

There are two main enrollment periods.
 
Open enrollment runs from November 1st to December 15th each year. During this time, anyone can enroll or make changes to their health plan.
 
You can qualify for health insurance outside the yearly Open Enrollment period. This is a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). You will have a 60-day window to enroll in a Blue Cross Blue Shield plan through the Marketplace.
 
What type of life events qualify for a Special Enrollment Period?:
  • Losing coverage
  • Moving
  • Getting married
  • Having a baby
  • Adopting a child

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Dental and Vision?

Some Blue Cross Blue Shield organizations offer vision & dental. The best way to find out is to contact them to see if your plan supports it. Plans vary from organization to organization for each state.

Need health insurance?

Call our Marketplace Call Center for free assistance* from licensed health agents.

Get a free health insurance quote today!

*Agents may be compensated based on enrollment in your health plan by the insurance company.