Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alaska
Alaska • HMO, PPO, EPO, POS, HDHP, Catastrophic
This is a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) prefix. HMO plans have stricter routing requirements than PPO plans. Members select a PCP who manages their care and issues referrals. Claims for specialist services should include the referral number. Out-of-network claims will typically be denied unless emergency criteria are met.
Under this PPO prefix, members are covered for both in-network and out-of-network care. The plan pays a higher percentage of allowed charges when members use participating providers. No gatekeeper or primary care referral is required. Verify the member's specific benefits for cost-sharing details.
This is an Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) prefix. EPO plans do not cover out-of-network care except in genuine emergencies. Members can see any in-network specialist without a referral from their primary care physician. Claims for out-of-network non-emergency services will be denied.
POS coverage under this prefix operates on a tiered system. Tier 1 (in-network with referral) provides the highest coverage. Tier 2 (in-network without referral) provides moderate coverage. Tier 3 (out-of-network) provides the lowest coverage. Verify which tier applies before submitting the claim.
This is a High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) prefix. These plans have minimum deductible thresholds set by the IRS. Members often use HSA funds to cover out-of-pocket costs. The plan's claims processing and payer ID are the same as the standard plan, but expect higher patient responsibility amounts on remittance.
Premera Blue Cross has operated in Alaska since 1957. Serves over 500,000 members. Part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.