
If you're a healthcare provider, you're likely familiar with the process of filing claims with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS). But have you ever wondered what happens when you file a claim with a local BCBS plan? It's actually a bit more complicated than you might think.
You'll need to understand the different types of claims, including professional claims and institutional claims. According to the BCBS filing process, professional claims are submitted for individual services provided by healthcare professionals, while institutional claims are submitted for services provided in a hospital or other facility.
When submitting a claim to a local BCBS plan, you'll need to ensure that the claim meets the plan's specific requirements. This includes providing accurate patient information, medical necessity, and proper coding. Failure to do so can result in delayed or denied claims.
The BCBS filing process also requires you to submit claims electronically, which can be done through the BCBS website or through a clearinghouse. This ensures that claims are processed efficiently and accurately.
Take a look at this: Local Authorities Pension Plan
Verify Eligibility and Benefits
Call the insurance company and ask to get a representative on the phone.
Hit 0 or say "representative" until you get a live person.
Ask to verify your network status by saying "am I in network with your insurance panel?" and provide your NPI and Tax ID.
Verify mental health outpatient benefits by asking the representative.
Let the representative know that you'll be filing claims in your local state by saying "Services will be rendered in _____".
If the representative quotes you a coinsurance or deductible, check out the guide on understanding them.
Recommended read: Health Insurance Cancellation Laws
BlueCard Claims Processing
BlueCard claims are electronically routed to the member's Blue plan for processing.
The member's Blue plan will process the claim according to their benefits contract.
Three-character prefixes are required when submitting BlueCard claims.
The prefix on the Blue Plan member's ID card is the key element used to identify the Blue plan and correctly route claims.
Please be certain to submit the claim with the appropriate prefix.
For more insights, see: Bcbs Blue Local
Local Plan Information
You'll want to verify the local state claims address for filing, especially if you have multiple Blue Cross Blue Shield companies in your home state. This is crucial to ensure you're sending claims to the right place.
To do this, ask your insurance company "Where do I file claims in _____ State?" and "Please tell me the claims address." If you file claims electronically, also ask "Can you let me know the payer ID?" This will save you time and headaches in the long run.
If your state has multiple brands, such as Washington, California, Oregon, New York, or New Jersey, ask for the exact address to file to. You can also ask where out of state claims should be filed.
We all know how frustrating it can be to deal with insurance companies, but asking the right questions upfront can make a huge difference. By verifying this information, you'll avoid unnecessary transfers and get the answers you need quickly.
What's Most Important
To verify the local Blue Cross Blue Shield plan and claims address is crucial, especially when claims are subcontracted to a mental health specific plan.
Make sure to check the subcontracting information to avoid any issues with your claims.
You can verify this information by contacting the plan directly or checking their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Blue Cross Home Plan and Local Plan?
The main difference between Blue Cross Home Plan and Local Plan is that the Local Plan applies pricing and reimbursement rules based on provider contracts, whereas the Home Plan focuses on member eligibility and contractual benefits. This distinction affects how claims are adjudicated and processed.
What is the timely filing limit for blue shield claims?
The timely filing limit for Blue Shield claims is one year from the service date. Submit your claim form and medical records within this timeframe to ensure timely processing.
Sources
- https://www.bcbsnm.com/provider/claims/claims-and-eligibility/bluecard-program-claim-filing
- https://therathink.com/blue-cross-blue-shield-out-of-state-plans-how-to/
- https://www.blueshieldca.com/en/provider/claims/policies-guidelines/ancillary-claim-guidelines
- https://www.blueshieldca.com/en/provider/guidelines-resources/bluecard/faqs
- https://www.bcbs.com/explore-affordable-health-plans/medicare/medicare-coverage-options
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