https://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/en-USTelligent Community 12https://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/protectyourselffromhealthinsurancescamsThu, 30 Nov 2023 13:22:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:caed6a1d-45de-4b75-9e48-be66b16e77f4BCBSIL Connect TeamYou might be sleeping or taking your dog for a walk. You could be at work, at your kid’s soccer game, or meeting friends for dinner. Life is good, right? You have no idea that scammers down the street, one state over or half a world away are doing their darndest to steal your personal info. Most often, scammers want to clean out your bank account or go on a shopping spree with your credit card. But mortgage title theft and health insurance scams are becoming more and more common. While the Affordable Care Act (ACA) gives more people access to health care, it also makes more people vulnerable to fraud. Protect Yourself Guard your digits. Don’t give your Social Security, credit card, bank account or phone numbers to anyone offering an “ACA card.” There’s no such thing as an “ACA card.” Beware of people pushing an ACA health plan . Yes, the Affordable Care Act calls for most people to have health insurance. But you don’t have to buy a new plan. If you already have health insurance through your job, Medicare or Medicaid, you can keep it or look at other plans offered by your insurer. Shut the door on con artists. Health insurance companies don’t send reps to make door-to-door sales calls. If someone shows up at your home, tell them to mail information to you. If you get something in the mail, carefully check out the company before you add your private data to any enrollment form. Ask a trusted family member or friend to also look at the information. Watch out for fake government workers. Scammers often use this ruse to steal your health information by saying they need to update it in the system. No such workers exist. If you need to change your information, call your insurance carrier directly. Watch Out for These Tricks What other tricks do health insurance fraudsters use? Here are some common schemes. Fake health insurance policies. Con artists promise low prices, no medical exams and guaranteed acceptance. Any too-good-to-be-true promises should raise a red flag. High-pressure sales. Con artists know the faster they get you to make a decision, the more likely they are to walk away with your private information. Be leery of anyone who says you must act now. Bogus websites for insurance companies. These fake sites mimic sites for legitimate health insurance companies. Make sure you’re interacting with a company’s real website before giving any personal information — especially before sharing your debit or credit card number. If you’re not sure, call the insurance company to confirm their official web address. Phony state health exchanges. Some states let the federal government set up their health care exchange rather than create their own. In these states, con artists often set up fake state exchange websites. Unsuspecting health care consumers hand over their personal information, financial data and money only to get nothing. Check to see if your state has a state-run health exchange. ACA navigators who charge for advice. The government provides trained navigators to help people who don’t know much about health insurance. Con artists posing as navigators ask customers to pay for their advice. Official ACA navigators never charge for their services. Discount cards called insurance plans. These cheap “insurance plans” usually boast a phony list of doctors, high fees hidden in the fine print and zero benefits. Remember, it’s important to think about many factors — not just price — when choosing a health plan. Buy from an insurance company you trust. Beware of any company you’ve never heard of before. They may not exist. You could end up without health insurance and without the money you set aside to pay for it. Search for reviews about any insurance company you’re considering. Visit our article library to learn more about health insurance scams . Source: Spot Health Insurance Scams , Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information, 2021 Original publish date: 10/7/2014; Revised 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023Affordable Care ActOpen EnrollmentGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health InsuranceHealth Insurance Scamshttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/how-to-sign-up-for-health-insuranceTue, 07 Nov 2023 09:04:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:54e24c04-fbf0-4a6d-8a09-b91d163a352fBCBSIL Connect TeamDo you need health coverage, but don’t know where to start? Visit bcbsil.com to view and compare all our Family and Individual health plans, including the plans we offer on the Health Insurance Marketplace. In most cases, you can only sign up for a health insurance plan during the open enrollment period from Nov. 1 through Jan. 16. Sign up by December 15 for coverage starting on January 1 . Any other time, you can sign up if you have a change that qualifies you for a new plan during a special enrollment period. During this time, you can apply for a BCBSIL Individual health plan for yourself or your family. Outside open enrollment, you can’t sign up unless you have a “life event.” If you change jobs , get married or have a baby, you can get health insurance during a special enrollment period. Act quickly , though. You only have 60 days after your life event to enroll. During this time, you can apply for a BCBSIL Individual health plan for yourself or your family. When you’re ready to enroll, you’ll have three options: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois: Shop Online or Call You can sign up for health insurance online using our shopping site . You can also call us at 877-731-4649. You’ll be able to compare all BCBSIL plans, including the plans we offer on the Health Insurance Marketplace. A Licensed Insurance Agent An agent can help you find the plan that's best for you. Agents are paid by insurers based on the plans they sell, so there is no charge to you for their help. The Health Insurance Marketplace If you think you may qualify for aid to help cover the costs of your health insurance, shop on the federal government website — the Health Insurance Marketplace . The marketplace allows you to shop, compare and buy plans offered by participating health insurance companies that offer plans in your area. You can apply for a subsidy to help pay your premiums. You can also see if you qualify for Medicare, Medicaid or CHIP through the Marketplace. Before you sign up for health insurance, search our site for articles about these topics and others about preparing to buy a plan. Get tips on comparing all your health insurance choices by price, benefits and other features that may be important to you. Learn why it’s important to make sure your doctors are in-network for the plans you are exploring. You can search for providers under Find Care . Find out what information you’ll need before you can start the process. Check the key dates, so you don’t miss any deadlines. If you have questions, we can help. Call 877-731-4649 or scroll through our enrollment guide . Come back after you’ve enrolled and let us know how about your experience. We always like to hear how we’re doing and ways we can improve. Original publish date: December 11, 2014, Revised 2019 - 2023Affordable Care ActCompare Health PlansOpen EnrollmentGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/making-a-list-checking-it-twice-preparing-for-open-enrollmentMon, 09 Oct 2023 11:00:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:57b3df5f-8e0d-4f3d-8ea3-f49a89389fa4BCBSIL Connect TeamThe open enrollment period can be confusing. Premiums. Deductibles. Coinsurance. Networks. We can help. Here are three important steps to help you prepare for this year’s open enrollment for health insurance coverage. Step 1: Make Note of the Deadline Mark Dec. 15 on your calendar and set a reminder on your phone. This is the deadline to sign up for coverage that will begin Jan. 1, 2024. You can sign up for 2024 coverage through Jan. 16. But your coverage will not start until Feb. 1 if you don’t enroll by Dec. 15. Step 2: Gather Your Personal Information Before you start shopping, you may want to have some personal information handy: Step 3: Find Out If You Qualify for Help to Pay Health Insurance Costs Do you know that you may be able to get help paying for health care coverage? Depending on how big your family is and how much you earn, you may qualify for a subsidy, also known as an advance. Special Enrollment Find out if you qualify for a 2024 BCBSIL Individual health plan for yourself or your family. Enroll Now! There are three main options for signing up for coverage from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) for 2024: 1. Call us directly at 877-731-4649 . Licensed sales agents will work with you to determine the plan that fits your needs. 2. Visit bcbsil.com . You can view and compare all plans available to you and fill out an application online. 3. Contact an independent, authorized BCBSIL agent. This is another method of talking directly to someone to help you choose a plan that meets your needs. If you need help finding an agent, go to our website's contact us page . Below Contact Us , select Request Agent and submit your information. Original publish date: 11/15/2015; Revised 2016-2022, 2023Benefits and CoverageIndividual and Family CoverageCompare Health PlansOpen EnrollmentGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/what-if-you-can-t-afford-insuranceFri, 22 Sep 2023 09:00:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:922f47c3-5afa-45ec-803b-382eee4ebe24BCBSIL Connect TeamShopping for health insurance can spark a few questions. Cost is always a big one. Wondering if you can afford it? You're not alone. As you check your options, remember there are resources that may help you pay for coverage. Health Plan Prices You have choices when choosing health coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Based on your income, family size and health plan, you may qualify for federal financial assistance. This could help lower your monthly payment. When you’re ready to enroll, you’ll have a variety of plans to choose from that fit your budget and needs. You'll also be able to see what your health insurance plan will cost before you make a final decision. Help Is Here There are two ways you may be able to get help paying for coverage. A premium tax credit, also called a subsidy, helps eligible people pay for their premiums (the monthly cost of coverage). If you’re eligible, the credit can be paid in advance directly to your insurance company to lower your premium each month. Check the subsidy calculator to see if your income qualifies you for a tax credit. Cost-sharing assistance may also be available If you qualify for a premium tax credit and your income is below a certain level. Cost-sharing assistance helps lower your out of pocket costs for doctor's visits, medical procedures and tests. Depending on how much money you make, your health insurance may pay a greater part of health care costs, reducing the amount you pay out-of-pocket. Sign Up for Health Insurance Open enrollment for 2024 coverage begins Nov. 1 and ends Jan. 16, 2024 . The deadline to sign up for a plan that begins on Jan. 1, 2024, is Dec. 15. If you miss open enrollment, you'll have to wait for the next open enrollment period or qualify for a special enrollment period. Original Publish Date: 12/24/2014; Revised 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023Premium Tax CreditCompare Health PlansOpen EnrollmentGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health InsuranceHealth Care Costshttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/medical-dental-vision-choosing-plan-typeMon, 11 Sep 2023 14:47:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:469cfa84-45c0-467c-94a9-380ffb047497BCBSIL Connect TeamMedical, dental and vision care are all important for your total health. That’s why it’s good to have the three kinds of insurance to protect yourself. Today, many people are buying health coverage on their own. What “comes with” medical coverage now may be different than in the past. You may want to get dental and vision coverage as well as medical coverage. Be sure to take a look at how each work. They can be a little different than medical coverage. What Does My Medical Cover for Dental and Vision? Dental Details Have you signed up for health coverage through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL), but not through your work? You may remember that dental coverage options are right there on the application. Dental benefits for BCBSIL individual members may include savings on preventive services like checkups, cleanings and basic X-rays. You can also save on dental work like fillings, bridges and crowns. Check coverage details to see about savings on dental services. Members can look up dentists who contract with BCBSIL in Provider Finder ® through their Blue Access for Members SM account. Click on Find Care. You make the most of your benefits when you stay in network with your medical coverage. The same applies for dental coverage. Try to use in-network. Also be sure to check your plan for details about what is and is not covered. That's good to know whether you see a network dentist or one who is out of the network. Vision at a Glance Vision coverage looks a bit different, too. Adult BCBSIL members are covered for one vision exam per year. Coverage amount varies by plan. HMO members are only covered for a vision exam if they use an in-network provider. Members also have access to eyewear discounts. If you need more frequent exams or treatments for your eyes, you may want to consider added vision coverage. You can sign up through Blue Access for Members. What’s The Deal with Discounts? Don’t forget that with your BCBSIL membership may also offer access to dental, vision and hearing discount through Blue365 . Wit the free health and wellness discount program, you have lots of chances to save big. Originally published 12/27/2016; Revised 2022, 2023Eye HealthHealth Care CoverageOpen EnrollmentDental HealthGetting Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/time-to-enroll-in-a-health-plan-again-alreadySun, 10 Sep 2023 14:56:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:35c747ba-34f3-49a1-8e39-fe445a8a3a53BCBSIL Connect TeamMany of us aren’t big fans of deadlines. We’re busy. Finding time to knock out one more thing on our to-do list can be a hassle. With some deadlines, a little procrastination may not really matter. That’s not the case when it comes to enrolling in your annual health care plan. With rising costs, no one wants to be caught without quality health care. So, when open enrollment rolls around every year, it’s important to make it a priority. Here’s What You Need to Know Every year there is a set window of time when you can sign up for a health care plan. This special timeframe is called open enrollment, because anyone can (and should ) sign up for coverage for the next year. Outside open enrollment, you can’t sign up unless you have a “life event.” If you change jobs , get married or have a baby, you can get health insurance during a special enrollment period. Act quickly, though . You only have 60 days after your life event to enroll. Why the Strict Deadlines? Organizing and limiting enrollment periods to small windows of time help insurers optimize benefits for their members. They can negotiate the best possible prices for medications, supplies, services and care when they know how many people they are serving. Open enrollment helps make all this possible. What About Medicare ? Medicare has its own enrollment period. This year, annual enrollment is Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. In addition, there are different enrollment dates for all the different parts (Medicare Part A and Part B ), Medicare Advantage Plans ( Part C ), and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans ( Part D ). Some dates apply to people who are new to Medicare. Others are for people who already have it. Some dates are tied to the date you turn 65. Some enrollment periods are annual. You can find all the details at bcbsil.com/medicare . Do Employers Have Open Enrollment? Yes! Open enrollment lets companies offer their best policies and services. It also gives employees a chance to change their plan. After the company’s open enrollment, employees must have a “life event” to change their coverage. Just Like Clockwork For many companies, annual open enrollment takes place from Nov. 1 through mid-December. Dates can change, so be sure to check. Put your dates on the calendar so it doesn’t sneak up on you. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) spends most of the year hard at work getting ready for open enrollment. Starting in early spring, we start to fine tune everything. We listen to your feedback. We adjust the benefits we offer. We go through the forms we ask you to fill out. We look at how and when to tell you about our plans. No detail is too small. We know details matter. Help Us Help You Get Ready Be sure you get and keep the health insurance that works best for you. Do you have everything you need to decide? Originally published 7/1/2015: Revised 2018, 2021,2023Special EnrollmentCompare Health PlansOpen EnrollmentGetting Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/why-kids-need-health-insuranceSat, 09 Sep 2023 12:38:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:25d43d5a-c504-46d8-82f9-56f463a88d94BCBSIL Connect TeamChildren are known for their endless curiosity, cute faces and their ability to come home covered in dirt. Being a trendy pre-teen or adventurous kindergartener comes with its share of coughs and colds, bumps and bruises and mystery rashes. You may not be able to protect your kiddos from every little germ, but you can have peace of mind with a health plan for your child. A health plan is one of the most immediate things you can do to support your child’s health and wellness. You can purchase one during open enrollment. Many health plans offer essential health benefits. They are a set of health care services that must be covered by certain plans. Essential health benefits Lab services Preventive and wellness services Chronic disease management Pediatric services Ambulatory patient services Emergency services Hospitalization Maternity and newborn care Mental health disorder services Substance use disorder services Prescription drugs Rehabilitative services and devices Kid-friendly Health Plans Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) Individual and Family health plans offer important coverage for pediatric services , preventive care and vaccines . They're all important for keeping your kids healthy. Regular visits to the doctor also track your child’s growth and progress. A health plan for your child will even cover their annual flu shot and other shots for school. Help Paying for Health Insurance Two parts to pay attention to when shopping for a health plan are costs and doctors. You can see what plans fit your budget and your child’s needs by putting basic information on our website . Giving information like family size, zip code and income will help find out if you qualify for a subsidy. Last year many people learned they qualified for a premium tax credit or cost sharing assistance. Cost Sharing assistance is a discount that lowers the amount you pay for your deductible, coinsurance and copayments. A Premium tax credit is a credit offered through the marketplace based on your income to help lower your monthly premium. Your Child Needs a Health Plan Health plans come in handy in all types of situations. A nasty fall during gymnastics or an unexpected ringworm outbreak at daycare are just two of the things that can be treated by a visit to a doctor or care facility in your health plan’s network. Blue Cross and Blue Shield members, Amy and Justin Wallace recall how they felt after their son’s lung collapsed. “It was very stressful from a mother's standpoint,” Amy said. “And the last thing that we wanted to have to worry about was the financial end of that. Having Blue Cross and Blue Shield insurance, we knew that we didn't have to worry about that.” Having a health plan is a pretty big deal when it comes to raising your kids. So, unless you plan on putting your kids in a bionic bubble. Having a health plan is the next best thing. Originally published November 24, 2015; Revised 2018, 2020, 2021, 2023Preventive Care ServicesHealth Care CoverageUnderstanding InsuranceEssential Health BenefitImportance of Health InsuranceOpen EnrollmentFamilyGetting Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/what-should-i-ask-when-seeking-a-planFri, 08 Sep 2023 07:00:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:ca1c8e7c-907c-4f8b-9eec-799fcca792c5BCBSIL Connect TeamYou now have more choices than ever when shopping for a health insurance plan. Whether you buy straight through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, the Health Insurance Marketplace or a licensed insurance agent, you can compare and shop for a policy that meets your needs and fits your budget. Open Enrollment for health insurance starts on Nov. 1 and runs through Jan. 16, 2024. Sign up by Dec. 15 for coverage starting on Jan. 1, 2024. During this time, you’ll need to decide if you’re going to apply for a new individual or family plan, keep your current plan or pick a new one. Of course, as with any big purchase, there are a few things you should do to prepare before buying. As your search for health insurance coverage begins, keep these things in mind: What provider network does the plan use? Is your current doctor in the plan’s network, and is this important to you? Have you checked to see if your doctors, specialists, hospitals or urgent care centers are in the plan’s network that you chose? You can use the BCBSIL Provider Finder ® to check. How often do you visit the doctor? Do you only get sick two or three times during the year? Do you have a health condition that results in frequent visits to the doctor or hospital? Are you thinking about having a child? Do you take prescription drugs? Can you take a generic drug, or do you take name-brand drugs that may cost you more each month? Drug coverage may differ by plan. You can see the formulary, also known as drug lists, for each plan we offer as well. Note the drug deductibles and copays for each plan. If you take a lot of medicine for a health issue, you may be better off paying a slightly higher monthly premium to have lower drug costs. How much can you spend? Every plan is different, so before shopping, figure out your budget. How much will you be able to spend every month? Think about your monthly premium, but also keep in mind the deductible, copayments and other out-of-pocket costs to figure out what you could pay during the year if you have unexpected medical bills. If you think you may be able to get financial assistance, use our premium tax credit calculator to check. You may qualify for a plan with a low premium. Do you need dental coverage? Some plans include dental coverage or you can buy a separate dental plan. If you know you will need a lot of dental work next year, such as an implant or kid’s braces, you may want to add a Health Spending Account to cover out-of-pocket costs. What do the plans look like? There are many plans to choose from that can meet your needs and budget. Visit the Shop Our Plans page on our website to learn more and find one that’s just right for you. Now that you know what to ask yourself, do you have any questions for us? Call us at 1-877-731-4649 or log in and ask below! Original publish December 3, 2014; Revised 2015-2021, 2023Premium Tax CreditHealth Insurance NetworkPrescription DrugsCompare Health PlansOpen EnrollmentGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health InsuranceHealth Care Costshttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/how-do-i-buy-an-individual-health-insurance-planThu, 07 Sep 2023 11:47:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:a8361462-05af-4423-ad68-548527015482BCBSIL Connect TeamThere are two times when you can buy health insurance. These two periods are called open enrollment and special enrollment. Open enrollment starts on Nov. 1 each year. Any other sign-up time falls under special enrollment . To buy health insurance during special enrollment, you must have a qualifying "life event" within the past 60 days. Examples include losing your job , moving to a new area, getting married or having a child . Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) offers tools to help you find a plan that's right for you. Use Provider Finder and Premium Tax Estimator to see your choices. They make health insurance shopping simpler. Visit bcbsil.com to view and compare all BCBSIL family and individual health insurance plans available to you — even plans offered on the Health Insurance Marketplace. Provider Finder ® lets you search our large network of doctors, dentists, hospitals and more. You can look for a new doctor who is in-network for the plan you're thinking about buying . If you already have a doctor you want to stick with, use the tool to see if your current doctor is in-network for the plan you’re considering. Premium Tax Estimator helps you know how much financial assistance you may qualify for based on your income and household size. Remember, this premium tax credit amount is just an estimate. The amount of your official premium tax credit will come from the Health Insurance Marketplace. If you’re on any prescription drugs, check the standard drug list and generic drug list to make sure the plan covers your meds. After you’ve chosen a plan that fits your budget, medical and prescription drug needs, track your application status with Enrollment Tracker . Visit our website to shop plans , or if online shopping isn’t your thing, give us a call instead at 877-731-4649. Originally published 4/1/2015; Revised 2018, 2021, 2023Benefits and CoveragePremium Tax CreditIndividual and Family CoverageSpecial EnrollmentCompare Health PlansOpen EnrollmentGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/everything-you-need-prepare-buy-health-insuranceThu, 07 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:8b955fbb-668d-4029-8e8f-aaa165b8db27BCBSIL Connect TeamIf you want to buy a new individual and family health plan or choose a different one, get the details you need before open enrollment starts on Nov. 1. Break the task into easy-to-handle steps. Keep the Deadlines in Mind Open enrollment ends Jan. 16 . If you want new health care coverage to start Jan. 1, the last day to enroll is Dec. 15 . If your current Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois health plan will be available for 2024, we’ll automatically re-enroll you so you won’t have a gap in coverage. Compare Health Plans Compare each health plan’s coverage and costs, such as premiums, copays, coinsurance and deductibles, especially for services you know you may need. These costs can change from year to year. Make a list of your doctors so you can find out if they are in network for your choice of plan. Check the plan’s drug list for the prescription drugs you and your dependents take. Personal Information For a Marketplace plan, proof of U.S. citizenship is needed to enroll. Have Social Security card numbers or U.S. passports handy for yourself and your family members. You’ll need a driver’s license, housing lease or utility bill to show the state you live in. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you’ll need proof of immigration status, like a permanent resident card. You can also use a work authorization or an immigrant visa. See healthcare.gov for the full list. Financial Information If you want subsidies for a Marketplace plan, you’ll need to provide earning records from all family members to be covered. These records may include: W-2 forms, pay stubs and your most recent tax return Any unemployment or disability payments Earnings records from Social Security, pension or retirement income You’ll most likely make payments to the health insurance company through a bank draft. You’ll need that account number to enroll. How to Buy You can buy health care coverage: Directly from the insurance company Through an independent, authorized agent at no cost to you On the Health Insurance Marketplace Through an online insurance seller Planning now will help you make a health care coverage choice that works for you and any dependents you cover. Original publish date: 10/20/2016, Revised 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023Prepare to Buy Health InsuranceCompare Health PlansOpen EnrollmentGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/3-reasons-why-women-should-choose-blueMon, 21 Aug 2023 15:44:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:34c39487-0dad-49f7-af29-f42b1a9d77d0BCBSIL Connect TeamYour health is important. You want to keep up your health and treat any sickness. So, you need a health plan to help you do it. Here’s three reasons so many women choose Blue. Reason No. 1 - Your Choice of Doctors No matter which Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) health plan you select, you’ll have many providers to choose from — including a trusted network of OB-GYN physicians. With a large number of Illinois doctors and hospitals in our networks, chances are very good that your current health care providers are part of our network. Before choosing a plan, check Provider Finder ® to see if the doctor or OB-GYN you’d like to use is a part of the health insurance plan you’d like to buy. To find a plan that’s right for you, shop Plans and Products . All plans have similar benefits, and all include essential health benefits and preventive services for women. They differ in the way costs of benefits are applied . Women’s Preventive Services Our health plans cover the following recommended screenings and preventive services for women with no out-of-pocket costs — as long as you visit a doctor in your health plan's provider network. Finding a doctor that provides these screenings and services should be no problem, since BCBSIL has the largest network of doctors in the state. Annual wellness visits Mammograms Pap smears Osteoporosis screenings Certain cancers screenings Diabetes testing Gestational diabetes screenings Testing for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) — the virus that can cause cervical cancer FDA-approved contraception methods and counseling Counseling and screening for HIV — the virus that can cause AIDS Breastfeeding support, counseling and supplies – such as manual and electric breast pumps Interpersonal and domestic violence screening and counseling Counseling for sexually transmitted infections Flu shots and other immunizations As you can see, so much is covered by your health insurance plan when you use an in-network provider — even manual and electric breast pumps . When you become a member, call the number on the back of your member ID card for more details. A Customer Advocate will work through the details about which pumps are covered and how you can get your pump. And if pregnancy isn’t for you right now, more than 20 different contraceptives are covered by your health plan, including birth control pills, injections, patches and well-woman check-ups. Prescription coverage for contraceptives may vary according to the terms and conditions of the plan and prescription drug list. See the full women’s preventive contraceptive list. Reason No. 2 - Health Management Programs Your health plan offers educational tools, outreach and health support. Here’s a few programs you’ll have access to: Fitness Program Regular exercise is an important part of healthy living. With the Fitness Program , members and their covered dependents (age 18 and older) are eligible to participate. They’ll receive a flexible membership that grants access to fitness centers nationwide. The fitness program is available to HMO and PPO members. Well onTarget ® Get the tools and support you need, plus rewards for making healthy choices. Gain access to a convenient, members-only website that includes a health assessment, interactive tools, educational information and health tips. There’s even a points-based reward program. Well onTarget ® is available to HMO and PPO members. Reason No. 3 - Member Support Tools and Resources With your membership, you have access to a variety of products and services. These benefits include health management tools and resources to help you stay well and protect your health. Customer Advocates Our customer service centers offer a customized, personalized experience. Our experienced service staff is truly empowered to serve as your advocates. They will help you navigate the health care insurance process and understand your benefits. Customer Advocates try their best to make each call fast and simple. Once you select a plan and receive your ID card in the mail, you’ll see the customer service number on the back of your card. Blue Access for Members SM (BAM) BAM is a secure member portal that gives you confidential 24/7 access to information about your insurance plan. You can check to see if claims have been finalized, sign up for alerts, print a temporary ID card, view up to 18 months of claim history and more. We know you're often on the go. So you can access your BAM account anywhere by downloading our free BCBSIL mobile app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play . Or download the app by texting* BCBSILAPP to 33633. Blue365 ® Member Discount With the Blue365 discount program, members can save money on health and wellness products and services. Save on fitness gear, gym memberships, family activities and healthy eating options. Members can also enjoy savings on products and services for dental, vision and hearing. All products are offered by top national and local retailers. Looking for Coverage? Start shopping with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois today. Review plan options, get pricing and enroll in a plan that meets your needs. Whew! That’s a lot to take in. If you have any questions, call us at 855-599-1515. *Messaging data rates may apply. Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy . Originally published 1/28/2015; Revised 2022, 2023Health Insurance NetworkBlue Access for MembersCompare Health PlansWomen’s HealthGetting Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/buying-health-insurance-it-s-a-good-ideaWed, 09 Aug 2023 15:49:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:fb73a3bd-38cb-44ef-90cb-cf6aa05fa7b3BCBSIL Connect TeamYou may think, "I never go to the doctor, so I don’t need health insurance." Think again. Health Insurance protects your physical and financial wellbeing. Let’s see what might happen if you have to take your kid to the ER, but don’t have health insurance. It’s not out of the realm of possibilities, right? After all, kids are active. Adventurous. And prone to mishaps every now and then. Imagine This Scenario Your son is outside playing with friends when you hear a scream. You run out and see him sitting on the sidewalk holding his ankle. Worried that his ankle is broken, you decide to take him to the ER. Let’s look at what this accident might cost you, according to Healthcare.gov : An average ER visit is about $700. That doesn’t cover any tests, x-rays or cast for your son’s foot. If it’s a broken leg, the cost could jump to $7,500. A 3-day hospital stay averages $30,000 Can you afford to pay for that visit to the ER? There’s a good chance the answer is no. The right health insurance plan can protect you from most of these and other types of medical bills. Without insurance, you could wipe out your savings and even go into debt. Get the Care You Need Most health plans cover preventive care (such as cancer screenings and shots) and yearly wellness exams with no out-of-pocket costs when you go to a doctor in your health plan's network. You don’t need to put off going to the doctor because you’re worried about the cost. Plus, keeping up with wellness exams and other preventive care means your doctor is more likely to catch health problems earlier. With health insurance , you have a network of doctors and hospitals who can care for you. No need to ignore warning signs that something might be wrong, or simply hope a health condition will go away on its own. By investing in a health care plan, you also get to take advantage of lower health care costs year-round. With access to affordable health insurance, you get preventive care and a network of doctors, specialists and hospitals, too. Ready to get started? Search our health plans to find one that’s right for you. Sources: Why Health Insurance is Important , Healthcare.gov. Originally published 5/11/2014; Revised 2018; 2021, 2023Preventive Care ServicesMedical BillsEmergency CareAffordable Care ActGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/specialenrollmentTue, 28 Mar 2023 15:54:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:b7b0c1ae-5db8-4139-b129-5723b03baf20BCBSIL Connect TeamLife happens. Things change. Some changes can even affect your health insurance. They’re called a “qualifying life event.” What does the term mean? What Is a Qualifying Life Event? In most cases, you can only sign up for a health insurance plan during the open enrollment period. There is an exception, though. If you’ve had a major life change, you may qualify for the Special Enrollment Period . Some qualifying life events include: Job loss Change in earnings or household type A move outside of your current network Marriage, divorce or separation Death of a spouse who was the policy holder Having a baby or adopting a child Becoming a U.S. citizen Turning 26 and losing coverage on a family member’s policy Being a member of an American Indian and Alaska Native tribe Don't Wait You only have 60 days after the qualifying life event to sign up or change your health plan during special enrollment. If you’re losing insurance through your job, then it’s only 30 days to sign up for COBRA. Give us a call at 877-731-4649 or visit your local agent to learn more. Originally published 10/6/2015; Revised 2018, 2020, 2023Special EnrollmentAffordable Care ActGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/how-to-change-your-health-insurance-planFri, 20 Jan 2023 10:54:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:c87fdd8f-f2eb-4c4e-ac86-ce0f2dd0dc61BCBSIL Connect TeamThings in life are always changing. No worries. We’re here to make things easier. Nothing about health is set in stone, including insurance needs. So, what happens if you’re enrolled in a health plan, but later realize your needs – or the needs of your family – have changed? Here’s what you need to know: How can you change your health insurance plan? There are two periods of time when you can change your health insurance plan. These two periods are called special enrollment and open enrollment. Special enrollment is a period of time outside annual open enrollment when you can sign up for a health insurance plan. Open enrollment is a period of time that allows you to sign up for health insurance plans – usually once a year. How did you enroll in your health insurance plan? The way you originally enrolled in your health insurance plan will affect the way you change it. Did you enroll through your employer on the Health Insurance Marketplace? Or did you enroll directly with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL)? If you enrolled through the Health Insurance Marketplace or directly with BCBSIL you have an individual or family plan. Open enrollment for individual and family plans begins Nov. 1 every year. However, if you’ve experienced a qualifying life event, you may be able to change your health insurance plan during the special enrollment period. Go to Healthcare.gov or call them at 800-318-2596 if you purchased your Blue Cross and Blue Shield plan on the Marketplace. Go to bcbsil.com or call our enrollment team at 877-731-4649 to learn your options for special enrollment if you purchased your plan directly through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. Finally, if you enrolled through your employer, you have a group plan or group coverage. Group plans set their own schedule for open enrollment and special enrollment. To change your health insurance plan, you’ll have to call your company’s human resource department or the number on the back of your member ID card. They can give you specific details about your open enrollment and special enrollment periods. In every case, you won’t be able to change your health insurance plan unless you’re in an open enrollment period or you’ve experienced a qualifying life event outside the open enrollment period. Think you qualify for special enrollment? Review the special enrollment qualifications, answer a few questions and start shopping for a plan . What is changing in YOUR life? Tell us about it in the comments. Originally published 6/8/2015; Revised 2018, 2023Special EnrollmentOpen EnrollmentGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/check-provider-networks-before-you-buyFri, 24 Jun 2022 15:00:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:0d4466ab-a18e-404d-84d2-75103be94aa1BCBSIL Connect TeamWhat is a Provider Network? You may have heard that premiums, copays and deductibles are all things you need to think about in your search for the best health plan for you or your family. But did you know that you should also be thinking about the plan’s provider network? Here's why. Health plans save you money by getting discounts on health care charges from doctors, hospitals and other health care providers. When a provider agrees to take patients with a health plan, that means they agree to take the lower amount for their care. Some plans’ provider networks have less doctors and hospitals than others. The plan is lower cost to the member because they pay less to providers who see those members. That means fewer providers will agree to be in that plan’s network. It also means that the smaller networks have less choices of doctors you can use when you need care You can keep your out-of-pocket costs low by using the doctors and other health care providers in your plan’s network. If you visit a doctor outside of your network, you might have to pay more for your care. In some cases (such as HMO plans), you may have to pay the full cost when you go out of network. If your family has certain doctors, specialists, hospitals and urgent care centers you use, make sure they are in the network of any health plan you consider. Provider Networks: HMO vs PPO While there are other options of health plans, the two most common are HMOs and PPOs. An HMO may have lower monthly premiums, but you'll have a primary care physician (PCP) to direct your care within the network. You'll need a referral from your PCP to see a specialist. In a PPO plan, you may pay a higher premium but have more freedom to choose doctors and hospitals and do not need referrals. Because this can be a big factor in your medical visits, here are some questions to ask yourself as you choose your health plan : Is it important to me to have a lot of doctors and hospitals to choose from? Is it worth paying a higher monthly premium to have more provider choices? Are the providers I often go to in my chosen plan’s network? Insider’s Tip: Use the BCBSIL Provider Finder® online to see what doctors, hospitals and urgent care centers are in network for the plan you are looking to buy. Provider Finder is also the place to go to check for doctors or any specialists you need to see after you have coverage. Originally published 12/10/2014; Revised 2020, 2022Health Insurance NetworkPreventionCompare Health PlansOpen EnrollmentProvider FinderFind a DoctorGetting Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/ways-to-make-health-insurance-work-for-small-businessTue, 21 Jun 2022 14:16:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:63d6ecab-3388-49d1-b364-af9082063111BCBSIL Connect TeamSmall business owners have a lot of decisions to make. Some are fun and creative. Others affect the bottom line. Those who offer health benefits enjoy a number of business advantages. Here are a few. More Productive Employees When it comes to success, a productive and healthy workplace is must. A MetLife study found that employees value health insurance over all other benefits. In fact, 86 percent said it is a “must-have.” Employers are in sync. Eight-six percent said they feel “a responsibility for the health and well-being of their employees.” Of course, decades of data show health insurance is linked to higher work productivity. With health insurance, employers help protect employees and their families. Coverage for wellness visits, prescription drugs, chronic conditions, health emergencies, and mental health benefits help employees stay happy, healthy and working! Possible Tax Benefits Health insurance offers tax advantages for employers and employees. Businesses can often claim deductions and payroll tax benefits. Employees can use pre-tax dollars to help cover their part of health care premiums. To learn more about tax benefits, talk with a tax or legal advisor. Retain Top Talent A Clutch study reveals that more than half of all employees say health insurance is the benefit that most affects their job satisfaction. Offering coverage to employees helps businesses compete for the best employees and keep them. Wondering if Your Small Business Can Offer Health Coverage? In some cases, employers who want to offer coverage as a group, can do so with only one full-time employee (subject to eligibility rules). This allows employers to provide access to a broad network of health care providers. Employers providing group coverage may be able to offer more than one benefit plan and network option. Again, it may only take one employee. Some employers offer a large network with a smaller, local network. By doing so, they give employees a choice of providers and price options. Employees and their families can then access care when and where they need it. Owning and managing a small business can be tough. Making health insurance work for you and your employees shouldn’t be. As you make important decisions for your small business, consider health insurance to give you and your employee’s peace of mind. Sources: The Rise of the Whole Employee , MetLife, 2022; The Four Advantages of Offering Health and Wellness Benefits to Employees , Forbes, 2018; Why Employers Should Offer Health Insurance and Other Employee Benefits , Clutch, 2022. Originally published 4/26/2018; Revised 2022Benefits and CoverageEmployer CoverageSmall BusinessBuy Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/i-am-under-26-should-i-stay-on-my-parents-health-insurance-planFri, 25 Mar 2022 12:44:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:3aa7e6d1-88f5-4454-a29d-184b4d763e69BCBSIL Connect TeamYoung adults have more health insurance options than ever before. Having lots of choices is awesome, but it can also be overwhelming. This is especially true if you don’t have that much experience dealing with health insurance. As you probably know, you can join or stay on your parent’s health insurance plan until you turn 26, even if you: Don’t live with your parents or count on them for money Are married Are still in school Can sign up for your employer’s plan This last bullet is an important one. Even if your job offers health insurance, you don’t have to take it. You can stay on your parent’s health insurance plan if you think it makes more sense for you. When I graduated college and got my first job, I went back and forth as to whether I should stay on my mom’s health insurance plan or switch over to a plan that my job was offering. I found that many of my friends were facing the same dilemma. Many of us didn’t know what questions or issues to consider as we tried to make the right decision. If you are also struggling with what to do about health insurance, here are some things you should keep in mind as you decide whether or not to stay on your parent’s health insurance plan: Are you about to turn 26? If your 26th birthday is right around the corner, you may want to consider going with your own health plan. This way you don’t have go through the process of choosing a health insurance plan again when you turn 26. If you do decide to stay on your parent’s plan until you turn 26, you will be able to enroll in another health plan even if open enrollment is over. Turning 26 allows you to change health insurance plans during a special enrollment period. You can find more information about your health insurance options when you turn 26 on our website. Will it cost more for your parents to keep you on their plan? In many cases, if your parent already has other dependents on their plan (such as your other parent or siblings) it won’t cost them extra to keep you on. In this instance it might make more financial sense to stay with your parent’s plan, since you won’t have to pay for your own premium on a plan you got through a job or on your own. If you decide to go this route, it might be a good idea to work out a system with your parents of how you can help pay for your health care costs such as copays and the deductible. If it does cost extra to stay on your parent’s plan, you might need to do a little bit more digging. Find out how much extra it will be to stay on their plan and see how that compares to what your costs would be if you got your own plan. Are there doctors and hospitals in your parent’s plan’s network near you? Do you live close to your parents? If so, it should be pretty easy to find doctors and hospitals in their plan’s network near where you live. This is important to take into account, because if you go to an out-of-network doctor you may have to pay more for your care. If you do live far away (such as in a different state), it could be more difficult to find a network doctor nearby. In this case, it might be a better idea to consider buying a health insurance plan on your own or going with one through your employer. This way you can avoid higher out-of-pocket costs if you are unable to find a network provider. Depending on your income, you may be able to get help paying for your own health insurance plan by enrolling through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Make sure you talk to your parents before you make your decision. This affects them as well, so it’s important that you are all on the same page before you do anything. What are my options if I can’t get health insurance through my job or my parents? If your job doesn’t offer health insurance but you decide that staying with your parent’s plan isn’t right for you, here are your other health insurance options: Buy a plan on the Marketplace (where you might get help paying your monthly premiums) or directly through us . Enroll in a student health plan if you are in college. See if you qualify for Medicaid . Still have questions? Check out our FAQs or write them in the comments section. Originally published November 18, 2015; Revised 2017, 2020, 2022Prepare to Buy Health InsuranceSpecial EnrollmentCompare Health PlansOpen EnrollmentFamilyGetting Health InsuranceHealth Care Costshttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/health-insurance-options-for-college-studentsFri, 11 Feb 2022 17:40:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:1daa7927-ee4a-476c-aed3-b73f6494d8d1BCBSIL Connect TeamThe semester is well underway and college students are hitting the books to prepare for tests, papers and extra credit. But there is one thing students may not have thought to prepare for — what you will do if you get sick or injured? Even if you are fit and healthy, it’s always a good idea to have a health plan. It gives you access to affordable care in case you get hurt or catch the flu , strep throat, mono and other nasty bugs that tend to make their way around campus. Getting insurance and learning how to use it while you are away at school doesn’t have to be hard or overwhelming. Know Your Options Stay on Your Parents’ Plan: If you are younger than age 26 , you may not have to worry about finding a health insurance plan. You may be able to stay on your parents’ plan if it covers children. But if you are going to school in a different state, you’ll want to make sure there are doctors, hospitals and other health care providers near campus that are covered by your parents’ plan. Not having in-network providers nearby can make things tricky if you get sick or hurt. You may have to pay extra to see an out-of-network provider or miss out on school to travel home to get care. Shop on the Health Insurance Marketplace: You also have the option of looking for a health plan on the Health Insurance Marketplace — the website created under the Affordable Care Act. Shopping on the Marketplace might be a good idea if your budget is tight — which is often the case for students. If you get a plan on the Marketplace, you may qualify for tax credits that can lower your monthly premium payments and provide other savings. We offer a number of plans on the Marketplace, but please note that you can only enroll in one during Open Enrollment or after certain life events . Consider a Student Health Plan: Your school may offer its own health plan. These plans are often less costly than your parents’ family plan because they are designed and priced for students. They also may provide network care options on campus or nearby. We offer student health plans for a number of schools, called AcademicBlue SM . Our student health plans: Include preventive care, such as immunizations and screenings Include prescription drug coverage Offer low deductibles (the amount of money you have to pay before your health insurance plan starts to pay for services) Offer low office visit copays and waive deductibles in certain cases Include up to 100% coverage at your student health center for eligible services Provide access to the Blue Cross and Blue Shield network of doctors, hospitals and pharmacies For a list of universities who offer these plans, visit our website. Are You Currently a BCBSIL Member? Finding a network doctor near school: If your school is far from home you’ll want to make sure there are doctors, hospitals and other health care providers in your plan’s network near campus. You can find in-network providers with Provider Finder ® . To access Provider Finder: Log in to Blue Access for Members SM . Look for Find Care You won’t have to select your network or plan — it will automatically be displayed. All you have to do is enter the right ZIP code and start your search. Using your benefits out of your service area: If your school is not in Illinois (also known as your plan’s service area), you may still be able to use your benefits through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global ® Core program or Away from Home Care ® programs. BlueCard : If you have a BCBSIL PPO plan, you may have access to Global Core* — a program that gives you short-term access to doctors and hospitals across the U.S. As long as you visit a provider in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield network where you are, you’ll get the same benefits as your BCBSIL plan when you are traveling or temporarily living out of your local service area. You won’t even have to file a claim after you receive care — the provider will take care of that. Just be sure to go to an in-network provider (which you can find through Provider Finder), and bring your BCBSIL ID card. Away from Home Care: If you have a BCBSIL HMO plan, you can request to become a guest of another Blue HMO participating in your school’s area. As with Global Core, you will still be able to use your benefits when you visit providers in this HMO’s network. This program is only available to BCBSIL members who are away from home for at least 90 days. To find out if this program is available in your school’s area, call the Customer Service number on the back of your member ID card. And be sure to bring your member ID card wherever you go. Still unsure about your insurance options? We can help! Send us your questions in a private message or in the comments below. *The Blue Cross Blue Shield Global® Core program is not available for Medicaid, Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D plan members. HMO plan members can use the Global Core Program only for emergency or urgent care when traveling or away from home for less than 90 days. Also, the Away From Home Care Program is not available for Medicaid plan members or for HMO plan members on the Blue Precision Network. Originally published 11/11/2015; Revised 2020, 2022College StudentsBlue Cross Blue Shield Global® Core programPrepare to Buy Health InsuranceOpen EnrollmentFind a DoctorGetting Health InsuranceHealth Care Costshttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/b/weblog/posts/plan-a-move-like-a-pro-with-these-5-moving-tips-to-keep-you-sane-and-healthyMon, 03 Jan 2022 13:47:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:3b8745f8-5133-4869-bf70-6fdc4094b2beBCBSIL Connect TeamMoving can be exciting – whatever your reason. You might relocate for a new job. Maybe you want to be closer to family. Perhaps you’re pulling up roots just for the thrill of living in a different place. Still, moving can also be stressful. There are a lot of details to coordinate. Finding a new place to live, boxing up your belongings, and getting everything from point A to point B are just a few. Some important things can fall through the cracks. While you’ll probably remember to forward your mail, what about your health insurance? Take steps early on to make sure you don’t have a gap in health insurance during and after your move. Here’s how: See If You’re Eligible for a Special Enrollment Period The insurance you trusted to meet your needs in Dallas may not be available in Chicago – or wherever you move. You could find yourself outside your health plan network. Don’t worry. Moving is considered a “qualifying event” that allows you to sign up for another health plan during a special enrollment period (SEP). You may qualify for special enrollment if you move: Out of state Within state, but your health plan network isn’t available in your new town Within the city, if your plan has a small, regional network Be Aware of the 60-Day Deadline If your move falls into an SEP category, you’ll have 60 days to change your plan or enroll in a new one after moving. If you don’t qualify for special enrollment, you may be eligible for a temporary or short-term coverage to help you get by until the next annual open enrollment period (OEP). What are some other ways you can make your move less stressful? Try these tips: Forward Your Mail to Your New Address You may remember to change your address for your Internet and banking statements, but what about your online shopping and streaming accounts? You can easily take care of forwarding everything online at USPS . Pack an Essentials Box There’s nothing worse than trying to settle in and having no idea which box your toothbrush or toilet paper is in. Pack essential items you’ll need your first night together in clear or well-labeled boxes. Clearly Label All Boxes Mark every box with the room it belongs in. Doing so ensures they are placed in the correct room and makes unpacking easier. Turn On Your Utilities Electric, gas, internet and cable services may require a day or two to get set up. Plan ahead to have them activated before your arrival so you aren’t left in the dark or the cold. While moving can be a hectic, it will go a lot more smoothly with a little advance planning and preparation. Source: How to Make Moving Less Stressful , Realtor.com, 2019. Originally published 9/2/2015; Revised 2022Special EnrollmentOpen EnrollmentGetting Health InsuranceBuy Health Insurancehttps://uat-bcbsil.telligenthosting.net/getting-health-insurance/m/mediagallery/18Wed, 21 Jan 2015 13:23:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:952c7358-0a1b-41ae-9207-c616ab76c07fBCBSIL Connect TeamIn 2008, Cecilia was laid off from work and lost her health insurance. “It was an awful feeling,” Cecilia said. “After my company was downsized, I tried to purchase insurance on my own, but it was too expensive.” Cecilia could no longer afford the doctor visits or the medicine that she needed. One of Cecilia’s biggest concerns was how to buy individual health insurance without a job, but she recently had the opportunity. “When I received my Blue Cross and Blue Shield card, it was like winning the lottery!” she said. While shopping for individual health insurance, she compared her options on healthcare.gov. She chose Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) because she found a prescription drug plan and deductible that met her needs . She had also heard that BCBSIL had good customer service. “Now that I have BCBS as my insurer, I manage my health a lot better,” Cecilia said. “I feel better about myself. I take my medications as prescribed. I go to the doctors.” Watch Cecilia’s story to see how she was able to overcome her obstacle and find affordable individual health insurance. The BCBSIL member ID is more than just a 2”x3” card. That little card comes with big expectations — expectations that have been built over the years by earning our members’ trust. Whenever you have a question or concern, you can just flip it over and call the number on the back to contact us. Whether you have serious health issues or just need routine doctor visits, knowing you have health care coverage from the most recognizable name in the industry is a big advantage. Read more about the Advantages of Membership. Do You Have a Story to Tell?* Share your story with Blue Cross and Blue Shield and you could be featured in a Member Voice video like Cecilia. Member Voice stories help to educate people on how they can use their health insurance. Write to us . Include your name, phone number and email address with your story. We’re looking for stories about any part of your experience with us, from customer service and sales to online, claims or care management. *Disclaimer The video above is the non-paid testimonial of a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois member. Not all products and services mentioned are available for all Plans. For more complete details, including benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to your certificate of coverage. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois is a Division of Health Care Service Corporation, a Mutual Legal Reserve Company, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.Benefits and CoverageIndividual and Family CoverageVideosUnderstanding InsuranceID CardSecurityMediaImportance of Health InsuranceOpen EnrollmentBuy Health Insurance