Blue Cross Insurance Information

Blue Cross Blue Shield, commonly referred to as Blue Cross, is the largest health insurance provider in the United States, providing coverage in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The company consists of a conglomerate of 39 separate health care providers, which all operate under the parent name of Blue Cross. As the nation's most widely used health insurer, the organization has a variety of insurance plans available to its subscribers.

FSA

• Blue Cross contracts with more doctors than any other insurer.

  One of the many plans available to those who are insured by Blue Cross is an FSA, or flexible spending account. This account, which is often available through employer-sponsored health insurance programs, allows subscribers to apply their pre-tax earnings to health-related expenses. This plan is especially useful for people with regular medical expenses. Likewise, by using pre-tax dollars, subscribers are able to save money and ensure that necessary medical expenses are covered.

HMO

• 16 million Blue Cross users are enrolled in an HMO.

  Another type of popular health insurance program that is available to Blue Cross subscribers is an HMO, or health maintenance organization. This type of coverage consists of a system of health care providers, within a specific geographic area, who share the types of risks associated with providing coverage to enrolled HMO subscribers. Those who have this type of plan usually pay a prepaid or fixed plan in accordance with the services that are provided.

PPO

• Blue Cross is the largest single processor of Medicare claims.

  A PPO, or preferred provider organization, is also available to Blue Cross subscribers. This type of plan offers its members incentives and discounts for using certain designated health care providers. These health care providers are contracted with the PPO to supply services at a lower-than-market rate. Individuals who choose this type of health insurance can also receive treatment from providers outside of the network, but usually at a non-discounted rate.

Options

• For those seeking a health insurance plan that affords the greatest amount of flexiblity and choice, a traditional plan may be appropriate. Such plans are usually referred to as "indemnity or fee-for-service" coverage. With these types of plans, a member can select any health care provider, which includes medical specialists. If however, you want to financially maximize your benefits, the best way to do this is to use a Blue Cross health care provider. To find out more about the other types of insurance plans that Blue Cross offers, you should consult your state's Blue Cross provider.