Anthem Blue Cross

Anthem Blue Cross is the largest insurer in the state of California, offering traditional plans that can include co-payments for doctor visits and prescriptions, economical major medical plans, and coverage that qualifies to work with a Health Savings Account (HSA).

Before applying please read the Exclusions and Limitations, and
Enrollment Guidelines on the plan brochure.

Plans at a Glance:           

This information is presented only as a very brief overview of some of the benefits of this plan, and is intended only for general education.  The amount of benefits provided depends on the plan selected. Premium will vary with the type of benefits selected.  These plans contain exclusions from and limitations of coverage.  Please see the product brochure for more complete information, as well as information about terms of renew ability, preexisting conditions, out-of-network penalties, and notification requirements.  Plans are subject to health underwriting.  To be considered for reimbursement, expenses must qualify as covered expenses.  Expenses are also subject to reasonable and customary limits, unless you use a network, and all other policy provisions, including determinations of medical necessity.

Coverage Synopsis:

Anthem Blue Cross generally offers the best value for full coverage in California.  They cover doctor visits, prescription drugs, vision, accident benefit, and of course, hospitalization.  The coverage and rates are excellent, and they have what is probably the widest PPO network in the state of California.  Complete details can be seen by opening the"Outline of Coverage" brochure:

• Anthem PPO Brochure

You can also refer to the chart above for a coverage overview.

Notes on Anthem Blue Cross HMO plan:

A Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) is a plan that provides health care from specific doctors and hospitals that contract with the plan.  While the plans comes with low co-payments for Doctor Visits ($10) and coverage for maternity benefits, your geographical service area is often limited, and you have no coverage if seen by a doctor or hospital that does not participate with the plan.

With an HMO, you must first chose a Primary Care Physician (PCP), from whom you must obtain a referral prior to seeking care from a specialist.  You will not receive coverage for any (non-emergency) care not authorized by your Primary Care Physician at your Participating Medical Group.

Rates:

Rates vary based upon zip code, age, and effective date.  You can get an instant quote online.

PPO Network:

Anthem Blue Cross gives you access to one of the largest networks in California, with thousands of health care providers throughout the state.  Having access to the PPO network can mean substantial discounts in what you pay for your health care, even before you meet your deductible.  The large list of doctors and hospitals can be viewed at their online directory.

Underwriting:

Anthem Blue Cross has one of the easiest, most efficient underwriting teams in the industry.  The process is very fast if no medical records are needed.  While it is always a good idea to apply at least three weeks prior to the time you need your new coverage to take effect, some applications that are done online are approved by Anthem Blue Cross within 24 hours.  

The company does have the right to accept or decline any individual or family application.  Certain conditions may be waivered with a temporary rider (usually for one to two years), or an indefinite rider.  If you are currently being treated for depression, anxiety, or high cholesterol, please let us know before you apply so we can make sure there are no delays in getting you covered.

Effective dates:

The coverage can go into effect in as quickly as 24 hours, though you risk being declined if claims are submitted before the underwriting process is completed.  You may request an effective date any time the date after you sign the application and 60 days later.  Please note that you will be billed starting on your requested effective date, even if you have not yet been notified that you have been approved.  This is very good for someone who does not have any present coverage and would like for their benefits to begin right away.  For those who are already covered, it is suggested that you maintain your current coverage in force until you have received notice from either HSA for America or directly from Blue Cross that your coverage has been approved and is in force.

Your earliest possible effective date will be the day after Blue Cross has received all the necessary documents and information needed to process your application.

HSA Administrator:

Your health savings account is totally separate from your health insurance, and you may use any approved bank or trustee as your HSA administrator.  We recommend that you choose one from our HSA administrator page, where you can compare rates and features. 

About Anthem Blue Cross:

Anthem Blue Cross has been serving the health care needs of Californians since 1937.  Blue Cross of California, together with its branded affiliates, provides health care services to more than 6.8 million members.

Anthem Blue Cross has been assigned a rating of "A" (Excellent) from the A.M. Best Company, an independent insurance rating organization.

HSA for America is an independent authorized Anthem Blue Cross agent.  CA License #: 0E39302