Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield
South Dakota/Iowa • Traditional Indemnity, HMO, EPO
Under this indemnity prefix, the member has fee-for-service coverage. There is no provider network, no referral requirement, and no primary care physician gatekeeper. Claims are processed based on the plan's fee schedule. While less common than managed care plans, indemnity coverage is still offered by some BCBS companies.
HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) plans require members to choose a primary care physician (PCP) and obtain referrals before seeing specialists. Out-of-network services are generally not covered except in emergencies. Claims must be submitted to the payer listed above and should include referral authorization when applicable.
EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization) plans require members to use in-network providers, similar to an HMO. The key difference is that referrals are usually not required to see a specialist. Out-of-network care is not covered except in emergency situations. Submit claims to the payer listed above.
Health insurance company serving Iowa and South Dakota with commercial and other plans.