MEL

BCBS Prefix MEL

Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield

South Dakota/Iowa • Traditional Indemnity, High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), HMO

Billing essentials

Provider phone
(800) 552-3993
Electronic payer ID
88848
Claims mailing address
P.O. Box 14509, Des Moines, IA 50306-3509
Timely filing limit
180 daysCompare all plans
Prior authorization phone
(800) 552-3993
Provider website
https://www.wellmark.com

Coverage under prefix MEL

Traditional Indemnity

Traditional indemnity coverage under this prefix is a fee-for-service plan. Members can see any provider without network restrictions or referral requirements. The plan reimburses a set percentage of usual and customary charges. Claims are submitted directly to the payer listed above.

HDHP

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.

HMO

This prefix is linked to an HMO plan. Health Maintenance Organization coverage requires members to use in-network providers and coordinate care through a designated primary care physician. Referrals are typically required for specialist visits. Claims submitted without proper referral documentation may be denied.

About Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Health insurance company serving Iowa and South Dakota with commercial and other plans.