Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alaska
Alaska • High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), Medicare Advantage, 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.
This prefix is associated with Medicare Advantage. MA plans combine hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) coverage, and many include prescription drug coverage (Part D). When billing, confirm whether the plan uses the same payer ID for MA claims as for commercial claims, as many BCBS companies use separate IDs.
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.
Premera Blue Cross has operated in Alaska since 1957. Serves over 500,000 members. Part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.