RELEASE
Blue Care Network of Michigan Expands Provider Network Flexibility, Simplifies Coverage with Two New Plan Offerings
Brianna Neace
| 3 min read
DETROIT, August 3, 2020 – Blue Care Network of Michigan is bringing to market two new health plans, Blue Elect Plus℠ and BCN HMO Fixed Cost℠. The member-centric plans are designed to offer members more care options and a simplified cost structure and provide businesses with additional benefit choices to meet employee needs. The Blue Elect Plus℠ point of service plan gives small and large group members the affordability and managed care benefits of an HMO, layered with the provider choice and flexibility of a PPO offering. Providing more options and value, members both in- and out-of-state will be able to self-refer for specialist needs with access to coverage for in- and out-of-network providers. “Our new Blue Elect Plus offers members the best of both worlds because it combines all the benefits of an HMO and PPO plan into one,” said Sandy Fester, vice president of Middle and Small Group Business for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. “The point of service plan design integrates the managed care benefits of a primary care physician and lower costs for in-network providers with the freedom to seek specialist care without a referral and continued coverage for out-of-network providers.” Offering a simplistic copay design, no deductible or coinsurance for medical and pharmacy services and fully covered online visits, the BCN HMO Fixed Cost℠ plan makes it easy for small group members to better understand and manage their health care. The fixed cost structure helps prevent cost uncertainty, so members know what to expect before each visit. Both plans include access to BCN’s broad network of providers with coverage in all 83 counties statewide. “During these economically challenging times, Blue Cross is committed to ensuring our members and group customers have plan options that offer the rate predictability and comprehensive coverage needed to make the best decisions for their families and businesses,” said Fester. “We’re confident in adding the Blue Elect Plus℠ and BCN HMO Fixed Cost℠ plans to our full portfolio as two more great choices for access to an expansive network of quality providers at a stable price point.” In light of the ongoing disruption and uncertainty in health care, Blue Cross and BCN have put forth significant efforts to help members and small businesses maintain health coverage, including average rate adjustments below two percent for 2021 enrollment. Additional relief has been provided through the return of approximately $47.5 million in medical, dental and vision premiums, the implementation of a special support program for small businesses severely impacted by the pandemic, and help for displaced workers to obtain continued coverage. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit mutual insurance company, is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. BCBSM provides and administers health benefits to more than 4.5 million members residing in Michigan in addition to employees of Michigan-headquartered companies who reside outside the state. For more company information, visit bcbsm.com and MiBluesPerspectives.com.
