Blue Cross Updates and Helpful Information

As you may be aware, the Affordable Care Act has greatly impacted an entire industry. It almost feels like it’s been turned upside down. As a result, there have been many computer processing issues on many fronts, including Healthcare.gov and Blue Cross/Blue Shield of IL. Below are updates and helpful hints on some of these issues relating to Blue Cross’s implementation of the new ACA (Affordable Care Act) plans:

• Bills – You should expect to see a bill approximately 15 days prior to the due date. If you have not received a bill for January and/or February payments, please contact us immediately. Your initial payment must be paid for your coverage to be activated.
• Payment Options – Blue Cross has many ways to pay your premium and has set up a new webpage dedicated to providing you with information on the various options. Please visit their site: http://www.bcbsil.com/payment-options/
• Dental – Some applications were processed without the requested dental plan. Blue Cross/Blue Shield is working on fixing these policies. While we believe we have identified the accounts that have been effected, if you don’t see your dental premium in your bill, please let us know.
• Medical, Dental and Pharmacy Benefit Authorizations – In order for Blue Cross to authorize benefits for a procedure or a prescription, your policy needs to be activated and the premium paid to date. It also may take 3 days after the initial payment is received for Blue Cross to activate the pharmacy coverage. If you have an emergency or life threatening situation we can assist in expediting the process with Blue Cross/Blue Shield of IL.
• ID Cards – ID cards have been issued for policies starting in January and February. If you haven’t received yours, please let us know. Dependent ID cards will be in the primary member’s name.
• Refunds – For those who were “double” charged, you should have by now received your refund. If not, please contact us.
• Premium Tax Credit – If you qualify for a Premium Tax Credit, but don’t see it reflected in your bill, please contact us.

We aware that it has not been an easy transition, and want you to know that we are here to assist you. While some things are out of our control, we will do our best to assist you in resolving issues you may have. We appreciate all your patience through the transition.