BLUE REVIEW^SM

April 2024

BlueCard^® Program: Reminders and Claim Filing Checklist

Through our BlueCard Program, many Blue Cross and Blue Shield members take their coverage with them when they travel.

The program is convenient for members, without causing extra work for providers. Here’s how it works, in a nutshell:

• As a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois participating provider, you may see patients from out-of-area BCBS Plans when they need care.
• BCBSIL is the Host Plan for these “guest” members while they’re away from their Home Plans.
• You welcome these out-of-area members as patients, and we welcome your BlueCard claims for their care.

Here’s a checklist for quick reference:

• Ask members for their current ID card. Most BlueCard members have a suitcase logo on the front of their ID card. Also ask for a photo ID to confirm the member’s identity.
• Verify the member’s eligibility, benefits and copayments. For faster results, check coverage electronically through Availity^® Essentials or your preferred web vendor.
• When recording the member ID number, be sure to include the three-character prefix. This prefix indicates the member’s group information.
• Submit BlueCard claims to BCBSIL electronically. Don’t submit duplicate claims.
• Check claim status online. Use the Availity Claim Status Tool to search for claims by member ID or claim number. 

For more in-depth information, refer to the BlueCard Program Provider Manual.