XEL

BCBS Prefix XEL

Blue Shield of California

California • Traditional Indemnity, PPO, HMO

Billing essentials

Provider phone
(800) 468-9935
Electronic payer ID
94036
Claims mailing address
P.O. Box 272630, Chico, CA 95927-2630
Timely filing limit
365 daysCompare all plans
Prior authorization phone
(800) 541-6652

Coverage under prefix XEL

Traditional Indemnity

This is a traditional indemnity prefix. Unlike managed care plans (HMO, PPO, EPO), indemnity plans do not use provider networks. There are no referral requirements and no restrictions on which providers the member can see. Submit claims to the payer listed above for reimbursement at the plan's allowed rate.

PPO

Under this PPO prefix, members are covered for both in-network and out-of-network care. The plan pays a higher percentage of allowed charges when members use participating providers. No gatekeeper or primary care referral is required. Verify the member's specific benefits for cost-sharing details.

HMO

HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) plans require members to choose a primary care physician (PCP) and obtain referrals before seeing specialists. Out-of-network services are generally not covered except in emergencies. Claims must be submitted to the payer listed above and should include referral authorization when applicable.

About Blue Shield of California

Nonprofit health plan providing 6 million Californians with affordable healthcare coverage including HMO, PPO, dental, and vision plans for individuals, families, and employers.