A8W

BCBS Prefix A8W

CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield

Maryland/District of Columbia/Northern Virginia • PPO, HMO, High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)

Billing essentials

Provider phone
(800) 842-5975
Electronic payer ID
580
Claims mailing address
10455 Mill Run Circle, P.O. Box 825, Owings Mills, MD 21117
Timely filing limit
180 daysCompare all plans
Prior authorization phone
(866) 773-2884

Coverage under prefix A8W

PPO

PPO coverage under this prefix means the member can access any provider. In-network providers have negotiated rates with the plan, while out-of-network providers are reimbursed based on usual and customary charges. Prior authorization is generally not required for routine services but may be needed for high-cost procedures.

HMO

This prefix is linked to an HMO plan. Health Maintenance Organization coverage requires members to use in-network providers and coordinate care through a designated primary care physician. Referrals are typically required for specialist visits. Claims submitted without proper referral documentation may be denied.

HDHP

Under this HDHP prefix, the member's plan has a higher deductible than traditional coverage. This affects patient cost-sharing but does not change how claims are submitted or processed. Use the same payer ID, claims address, and filing procedures listed above. Verify the member's remaining deductible before estimating patient responsibility.

About CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield

Independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association serving Maryland, District of Columbia and Northern Virginia.