BCBS Member ID Prefix Explained for Insurance Benefits

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Understanding your Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Member ID prefix can be a bit confusing, but don't worry, it's not as complicated as it seems.

The BCBS Member ID prefix is a unique set of letters that identifies you as a member of the BCBS network. It's usually 1-3 letters long and is followed by a series of numbers.

Your prefix can give you clues about your insurance benefits and what's covered under your plan. For example, some prefixes indicate that you have a specific type of coverage, like dental or vision.

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Eligibility and ID Basics

Blue Cross of Idaho assigns unique alpha/numeric identification numbers to all members, which includes a 3-character prefix and a 12-digit identification number.

The prefix is the first three alpha/numeric characters of the identification number and is required when submitting claims. This is the best way for Blue Cross to identify members and match them with their coverage.

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Chief of Surgery Id Cards
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For security purposes, Blue Cross of Idaho does not use Social Security numbers for member identification.

Highmark members receive an identification card with essential information, including the subscriber's name, dependent's name, Member's Unique Member Identifier (UMI), or "Member ID", which includes a 3-character prefix and a 12-digit identification number.

The identification card may have slight variations depending on the type of program and location of the Blue Plan through which members are enrolled.

The identification card includes the following information:

  • Subscriber’s name;
  • Dependent’s name, if applicable;
  • Member’s Unique Member Identifier (UMI), or “Member ID,” which includes a 3-character prefix and a 12-digit identification number;
  • Group number – a series of alphabetical and numeric characters assigned to employment groups, professional associations, and direct payment programs;
  • Plan Code – three digits that identify the Blue Plan through which the member is enrolled;
  • Type of agreement – a brief description of the type of agreements and coverage of the member (not all identification cards have this information); and
  • BlueCard® – all BlueCard members can be identified by a 3-character prefix preceding the member identification number on their identification card.

Members may have more than one identification card if they are covered under more than one plan.

Member ID Cards and Benefits

Member ID cards are a crucial part of being a BCBS member, as they contain your unique Member ID number and other essential information.

Your Member ID card is usually mailed to you within a few days of enrolling in a BCBS plan. This card is used to identify you as a member and to access your benefits.

As a BCBS member, you're entitled to a range of benefits, including access to a network of healthcare providers, prescription medication coverage, and more.

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Group Numbers and IDs

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Your Blue Cross of Idaho member ID card has a unique alpha/numeric identification number, which is the best way for Blue Cross to identify you and match you with your coverage.

The first three alpha/numeric characters of the identification number is the prefix, and it's required when submitting claims.

For security purposes, Blue Cross of Idaho does not use Social Security numbers for member identification.

Claims for members of the Federal Employee Program have a special identification number that begins with an "R" followed by eight numbers, and requires all nine characters.

You'll need to include all nine characters when submitting claims for Federal Employee Program members.

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Member ID Cards

Member ID Cards are essential for identifying Highmark members and understanding their coverage. They may have slight variations depending on the type of program and location of the Blue Plan.

The identification cards include crucial information such as the subscriber's name, dependent's name, and Member's Unique Member Identifier (UMI). This 3-character prefix and 12-digit identification number is unique to each member.

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A Group number, which is a series of alphabetical and numeric characters, is also included on the card. This identifies the employment group, professional association, or direct payment program the member is part of.

The Plan Code is a three-digit code that indicates the Blue Plan through which the member is enrolled. This is a critical piece of information for claim processing.

Some identification cards may have a Type of agreement field, which provides a brief description of the type of agreements and coverage the member has. However, not all cards include this information.

Members with BlueCard coverage can be identified by a 3-character prefix preceding the member identification number on their card. It's essential to report the correct prefix for accurate claim processing.

If a member has multiple identification cards, it's crucial to verify the correct prefix and identification number for reporting services.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the member ID on BCBS?

Your BCBS member ID, also known as your identification number, is a unique number that identifies you as a member and is required for medical services and customer service assistance. It's usually listed below your name on your BCBS card or membership materials.

What is the BCBS prefix identification tool?

The BCBS Prefix Identification Tool is a resource for CareCentrix providers to quickly identify patient plan types and obtain health plan contact information for over 14,000 BCBS Association plans. It's a valuable tool for streamlined patient care and communication.

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