BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina

National Consumer Cost Tool

October 05, 2010

BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is dedicated to ensuring its members have access to information about cost and quality — two key factors guiding them in their health care decision making. In support of this commitment, we are pleased to announce the launch of the National Consumer Cost Tool. This transparency tool will be available to our members in January 2011. It will offer estimated total cost information derived from Blue claims data from Blue Plans across the country. 

With the National Consumer Cost Tool, members will be able to choose a treatment category, select a ZIP code and find facilities that offer the selected treatment. The member will also get estimated cost ranges for the treatment. The National Consumer Cost Tool will allow members to access average network cost ranges for a variety of common, elective treatment options and conditions. These include facility, professional and ancillary procedures. Members also will be able to view cost estimates for their procedures.

The National Consumer Cost Tool recognizes that cost and quality information are valuable components of informed health care decision-making, but that other factors also influence a member’s decision process. We view our members’ physician-patient interactions as a critical component to the success of this transparency program and to the delivery of quality health care. We hope that you will share our enthusiasm for providing these additional online tools to our members — your patients.

For your reference, review the Frequently Asked Questions to help address any questions you may have. Also, our Provider Education and Relations department is available to discuss the National Consumer Cost Tool. Please feel free to contact us with any questions at 803-264-4730 or e-mail Provider.Education@bcbssc.com.