CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
Maryland/District of Columbia/Northern Virginia • Medicare Advantage, Traditional Indemnity, High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)
Medicare Advantage coverage under this prefix means the plan administers Medicare Part A and Part B benefits on behalf of CMS. These claims may have different processing rules than commercial claims, including different prior authorization requirements and appeal timelines. CMS timely filing rules (365 days) typically apply.
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.
This prefix is associated with a High-Deductible Health Plan. HDHP members pay more out-of-pocket before insurance coverage begins. These plans are commonly paired with HSA or HRA accounts. When billing, be aware that the member may have significant cost-sharing responsibility until their annual deductible is satisfied.
Independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association serving Maryland, District of Columbia and Northern Virginia.