Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
Illinois • HMO, PPO, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid
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.
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.
This prefix is associated with Medicare Advantage. MA plans combine hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) coverage, and many include prescription drug coverage (Part D). When billing, confirm whether the plan uses the same payer ID for MA claims as for commercial claims, as many BCBS companies use separate IDs.
Medicaid coverage under this prefix means the member's Medicaid benefits are administered by a BCBS managed care plan. Medicaid managed care claims may have different submission requirements, payer IDs, and timely filing deadlines than commercial claims. Verify the specific Medicaid plan details with the payer.
State's only statewide customer-owned health insurer and independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Serves Illinois with commercial, Medicare, Medicaid and other plans.