CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
Maryland/District of Columbia/Northern Virginia • HMO, PPO, POS
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.
PPO coverage under this prefix means the member can access any provider. In-network providers have negotiated rates with the plan, while out-of-network providers are reimbursed based on usual and customary charges. Prior authorization is generally not required for routine services but may be needed for high-cost procedures.
Under this POS prefix, the member can access care both in-network and out-of-network, with cost-sharing that varies based on how the care is accessed. In-network care coordinated through the member's PCP has the lowest out-of-pocket cost. Include referral documentation when billing at the in-network benefit level.
Independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association serving Maryland, District of Columbia and Northern Virginia.