BlueCard®

Wherever you go. Your health care coverage goes with you. When you're a BlueCross BlueShield plan member, you take your health care benefits with you — across the country and around the world.

Within the U.S.

  • Always carry your current BlueCross BlueShield ID card for easy reference and access to service.
  • In an emergency, go directly to the nearest hospital.
  • To find nearby doctors and hospitals, visit the Find a Provider page or call BlueCard® Access at 1-800-810-BLUE. 
  • Call your Blue Plan for pre-certification or prior authorization, if necessary. Refer to the phone number on the back of your card.
  • When you arrive at the participating doctor's office or hospital, simply present your Plan ID card. If you are a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) member, the doctor will recognize the PPO Suitcase logo, which will ensure you will get the PPO level of benefits.
  • You should not have to complete any claims forms or pay up front for medical services other than the usual out-of-pocket expenses (deductibles, copayment, coinsurance and non-covered services).

Around the World

  • Always carry your BlueCross BlueShield ID card when you travel or live outside the U.S.
  • Follow the same simple process as in the U.S., with the following exceptions:
    • In most cases, you should not need to pay up front for inpatient care at BlueCard Worldwide hospitals. You are responsible for the usual out-of-pocket expenses (non-covered services, deductible, copayment and coinsurance). The hospital should submit your claim.
    • You pay the doctor or hospital for inpatient care at non-BlueCard Worldwide hospitals, outpatient hospital care and other medical services. Then, complete an international claim form and send it to the BlueCard Worldwide Service Center.