WHI

BCBS Prefix WHI

Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield

New York • HMO, Medicaid, POS

Billing essentials

Provider phone
(800) 397-1630
Electronic payer ID
00803
Claims mailing address
P.O. Box 1407, Church Street Station, New York, NY 10008
Timely filing limit
90 daysCompare all plans
Prior authorization phone
(800) 397-1630

Coverage under prefix WHI

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.

Medicaid

This prefix is associated with Medicaid managed care. When a BCBS plan administers Medicaid, the claims process may differ from commercial coverage: different payer ID, different claims address, different prior authorization rules, and different timely filing limits. Always verify Medicaid-specific details before submitting.

POS

POS coverage under this prefix operates on a tiered system. Tier 1 (in-network with referral) provides the highest coverage. Tier 2 (in-network without referral) provides moderate coverage. Tier 3 (out-of-network) provides the lowest coverage. Verify which tier applies before submitting the claim.

About Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield

Part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, serving New York members with commercial, Medicare and Medicaid plans.