California • High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), Traditional Indemnity, EPO
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.
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.
EPO coverage under this prefix means the member must use network providers but does not need referrals for specialist visits. This plan type is becoming more common as it offers lower premiums than PPO plans while providing more flexibility than HMOs. Verify network status before providing services.
Health insurance provider offering Medicare, Medicaid, commercial, dental and vision plans to over 8 million California members. Independent licensee of the Blue Cross Association founded in 1937.