BKU

BCBS Prefix BKU

Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield

South Dakota/Iowa • PPO, EPO, Medicaid Managed Care

Billing essentials

Provider phone
(800) 552-3993
Electronic payer ID
88848
Claims mailing address
P.O. Box 14509, Des Moines, IA 50306-3509
Timely filing limit
180 daysCompare all plans
Prior authorization phone
(800) 552-3993
Provider website
https://www.wellmark.com

Coverage under prefix BKU

PPO

PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans allow members to visit any healthcare provider without a referral. In-network providers cost less, but out-of-network care is still covered at a reduced rate. When billing for a PPO plan, submit claims directly to the payer listed above. No referral documentation is needed.

EPO

Under this EPO prefix, the member has no out-of-network coverage for routine care. However, unlike HMO plans, no referral is needed to see a specialist within the network. When billing, confirm the provider's network participation status with the plan before submitting the claim.

Medicaid

This prefix is associated with Medicaid managed care. When a BCBS plan administers Medicaid, the claims process may differ from commercial coverage: different payer ID, different claims address, different prior authorization rules, and different timely filing limits. Always verify Medicaid-specific details before submitting.

About Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Health insurance company serving Iowa and South Dakota with commercial and other plans.