GEK

BCBS Prefix GEK

Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield

New York • Traditional Indemnity, HMO, EPO

Billing essentials

Provider phone
(800) 397-1630
Electronic payer ID
00803
Claims mailing address
P.O. Box 1407, Church Street Station, New York, NY 10008
Timely filing limit
90 daysCompare all plans
Prior authorization phone
(800) 397-1630

Coverage under prefix GEK

Traditional Indemnity

Traditional indemnity coverage means the member has fee-for-service insurance with no network limitations. Any licensed provider can be seen without referrals. Claims are reimbursed based on usual, customary, and reasonable (UCR) charges. The member typically pays a deductible and a percentage of allowed charges.

HMO

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.

EPO

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.

About Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield

Part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, serving New York members with commercial, Medicare and Medicaid plans.