
If you're a New York resident, you're likely familiar with the importance of having reliable health insurance. BCBS CHI (Capital District) offers a range of health insurance plans that cater to the unique needs of New Yorkers.
One of the key benefits of BCBS CHI is its extensive network of healthcare providers, which includes many top-ranked hospitals and medical facilities in the state. This means you'll have access to top-notch care when you need it.
As a BCBS CHI member, you'll also have access to a wide range of preventive care services, including routine check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings. These services are crucial for maintaining good health and catching any potential health issues early.
Finding Care
You can get medical care 24/7 with BCBS CHP.
With no copays for covered medical services, you can focus on your health without worrying about extra costs.
Here are some examples of the care you can get:
- Primary care provider (PCP) visits
- Immunizations and wellness visits
- Specialist visits
- Urgent care
- Emergency care
- Lab and X-ray services
- Pregnancy services
- Family planning
- Hospital care
- Physical therapy
- Speech and hearing services
- Behavioral healthcare
- Autism spectrum disorder services
You can get care for a wide range of services with BCBS CHP.
Eligibility and Plans
To be eligible for BCBS CHPlus, your child must be under the age of 19. They also need to live in one of the eligible counties in New York, which include the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, Dutchess, Nassau, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Suffolk, Ulster, or Westchester County.
Your child's immigration status is not a factor in determining eligibility, and participating in the program will not affect their future immigration status.
Eligibility for CHPlus in New York
To be eligible for CHPlus in New York, your child must be younger than age 19. Your child's age is a key factor in determining eligibility.
CHPlus is available to children living in specific counties in New York, including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, Dutchess, Nassau, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Suffolk, Ulster, and Westchester County.
Your child doesn't have to be a citizen or legal resident to qualify for CHPlus. This means that children who are undocumented or in the process of becoming citizens may still be eligible.
Living in one of the eligible counties is a requirement for CHPlus. If you live outside of these areas, your child may not be eligible for this program.
Consumer-Directed Health Plans
Consumer-Directed Health Plans are designed to give individuals more control over their healthcare spending.
These plans typically involve a high-deductible health plan paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA). A HSA allows individuals to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses.
HSAs are owned by the individual, not the employer or the insurance company. This means that the funds in the account belong to the individual and can be used for future medical expenses.
The funds in an HSA can be invested, earning interest over time. This can help the account grow and provide more financial security for medical expenses.
HSAs are not subject to federal income tax, and the funds can be used for qualified medical expenses. This can include doctor visits, prescriptions, and even some over-the-counter medications.
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Healthcare Services
With BCBS CHP, you'll never have to worry about unexpected medical expenses. Here are some of the comprehensive healthcare services you can expect:

You'll have access to your primary care provider (PCP) visits, which are an essential part of maintaining good health.
Immunizations and wellness visits are also covered, helping to prevent illnesses and detect any potential health issues early on.
Specialist visits are also included, allowing you to get the specialized care you need from a doctor who's an expert in their field.
You can also visit urgent care or emergency care centers without worrying about copays, giving you peace of mind in case of unexpected medical emergencies.
Lab and X-ray services are also covered, helping doctors diagnose and treat health conditions.
You'll also have access to pregnancy services, family planning, and hospital care, which are all essential for maintaining good health and well-being.
Here are some of the healthcare services you can expect with BCBS CHP:
- Primary care provider (PCP) visits
- Immunizations and wellness visits
- Specialist visits
- Urgent care
- Emergency care
- Lab and X-ray services
- Pregnancy services
- Family planning
- Hospital care
- Physical therapy
- Speech and hearing services
- Behavioral healthcare
- Autism spectrum disorder services
Referrals
You'll need a referral from your child's primary care provider (PCP) for certain services, such as going to the hospital for nonemergency care or getting medicine from another doctor in your child's plan.

Some examples of services that require a referral include hospital visits for nonemergency care and medication from other doctors within your child's plan.
You don't need a referral for women's healthcare, pregnancy services, or family planning services.
Emergency services also don't require a referral, so you can get help right away if you need it.
You can also get services at a school-based health center without a referral.
Here's a quick rundown of services that don't require a referral:
- Women's healthcare
- Pregnancy services
- Family planning services
- Emergency services
- School-based health center services
- Behavioral health and substance use disorder services
- Certain doctors for children with special healthcare needs
Medical Care
Medical care is covered with no copays for a wide range of services. This includes visits to your primary care provider, specialist doctors, and urgent care centers.
You can get medical care 24/7, which is especially helpful in emergency situations. This means you can get the care you need at any time, without worrying about extra costs.
Some of the covered medical services include immunizations and wellness visits, lab and X-ray services, and hospital care. You can also get physical therapy, speech and hearing services, and behavioral healthcare.
Here's a list of some of the covered medical services:
- Primary care provider (PCP) visits
- Immunizations and wellness visits
- Specialist visits
- Urgent care
- Emergency care
- Lab and X-ray services
- Pregnancy services
- Family planning
- Hospital care
- Physical therapy
- Speech and hearing services
- Behavioral healthcare
- Autism spectrum disorder services
Vision Care

Vision care is an important part of maintaining your overall health. You're entitled to one eye exam each year.
If you need prescription glasses, you're covered for them each year as well. This can be a big help in keeping your vision sharp.
Contact lenses are also covered, but only if they're medically necessary. This is an important consideration if you rely on contacts to see clearly.
Here's a quick rundown of your vision benefits:
- One eye exam each year
- Prescription glasses each year
- Contact lenses (if medically necessary)
It's a good idea to check your member handbook for a full list of vision benefits in your child's plan.
Pharmacy Drugs
Your child's healthcare benefits include coverage for a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs in New York. We work with CarelonRx to provide these benefits.
There are no copays for covered drugs. This means you won't have to pay extra for the medications your child needs.
To find a pharmacy near you, visit the pharmacy page. This will also help you check if your child's medicine is on the Preferred Drug List (PDL).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Blue Shield CA the same as BCBS?
Blue Shield of California is a member of the BlueCross BlueShield Association, but it operates independently as a separate entity. This means it has its own unique plans and services, distinct from the larger BCBS network.
What is the BCBSIL community health plan?
BCBSIL's Community Health Plan (BCCHP) is a managed care program that provides integrated healthcare services to vulnerable populations, including seniors, families, and individuals with disabilities. It offers quality care and support to those who need it most, promoting healthier communities in Illinois.
Sources
- https://www.bcbsil.com/bcchp
- https://www.mibluecrosscomplete.com/find-a-doctor/
- https://www.anthem.com/ny/medicaid/child-health-plus
- https://employer.bluecrossma.com/medical-insurance/consumer-directed-health-plans
- https://www.dentaquest.com/en/members/illinois-medicaid-dental-coverage/blue-cross-blue-shield
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