My Blue Cross clients:
This has got to be the number one request from my clients. If you happen to be a current Blue Cross client, then your “last year’s ID card” should in most cases do the trick. Generally, your contract number remains the same from year to year. However, if you made a change in the “family / network” in your plan choice, such as POS network to the Blue Connect, Community, Signature, or Precision. This would be considered a “family change” and you will receive a new contract number along with a new ID card via Blue Cross. This particular year, they seem to be quite delayed in this task. Also, it is super important to be aware of, IF you made a change, an initial payment is required as though you are brand new to Blue Cross. Please always, be mindful of any request from Blue Cross that is asking for this initial payment. In general, your original and physical ID card should be on the way!
If you have not yet received your ID Card, just call Kevin most anytime, and I will get you a PDF copy via email. The PDF is actually an exact duplicate of your ID and should serve the purpose in the meantime. It is a good idea to print out a few copies, and potentially keep a copy in your purse, wallet, glove compartment, and file cabinet for office reference. And if you still don’t have your ID fifteen plus days beyond your CED-Coverage Effective Date, then let Kevin know, and I will request new ID cards to be sent. However, a call would be best so that we can confirm that your address is correct.
Keep in mind, your ID card is not what guarantees your coverage, it’s paying for that coverage that assures you are covered when you need it. So always, be mindful that an actual payment is made monthly, via a draft from your bank, a paper check sent in, or a call to Blue Cross to pay over the phone. Here’s the bottom line, all payment needs to clear your account, which absolutely shows that you have made that payment. One more thing, read your monthly statements, just to make certain that a “missed payment” did not occur, and you were not aware. I always suggest, setting up the recurring draft via www.BCBSLA.com and check your bank account to make sure the actual payment went through.
Back to the ID card itself, yes, all family members share the same contract ID number assuming they are indeed on the same policy. Just have the front doctor’s office call the number reflected on the back of your ID card to validate coverage and eligibility.
Best regards,
Kevin F. Gourgues